Historical Events
1788
The First Fleet arrives at Sydney Cove; the date is now celebrated as Australia Day.
1837
Michigan becomes the 26th US state.
1905
The Cullinan Diamond, the largest gem-quality diamond ever found, is discovered in South Africa.
1950
India adopts its constitution and becomes a republic.
2020
NBA legend Kobe Bryant dies in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California.
Famous Birthdays
1880
Douglas MacArthur
American general who commanded Allied forces in the Pacific in World War II.
1925
Paul Newman
Academy Award-winning American actor known for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
1928
Roger Vadim
French film director known for And God Created Woman.
1955
Ellen DeGeneres
American comedian and talk show host.
1961
Wayne Gretzky
Canadian hockey player known as "The Great One," considered the greatest hockey player of all time.
