2/1/2003 - Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrates during reentry into the Earth's atmosphere, killing seven astronauts.

1/28/1986 - Space Shuttle program, Space Shuttle Challenger disaster: STS-51-L mission - Space Shuttle Challenger breaks apart 73 seconds after liftoff killing all seven astronauts onboard,

1/22/1973 - The Supreme Court of the United States delivers its decision in Roe v. Wade striking down state laws restricting abortion during the first six months of pregnancy.

“We … acknowledge our awareness of the sensitive and emotional nature of the abortion controversy, of the vigorous opposing views, even among physicians, and of the deep and seemingly absolute convictions that the subject inspires.” - - Justice Blackmun (1973), majority opinion in Roe v. Wade

Today's Birthday

Paul Cézanne - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

1/17/1961 - U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower delivers a televised farewell address to the nation three days before leaving office, in which he warns against the accumulation of power by the "military-industrial complex."

"we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the military-industrial complex... Only an alert and knowledgeable citizenry can compel the proper meshing of the huge industrial and military machinery of defense with our peaceful methods and goals, so that security and liberty may prosper together."

1/15/1892 - James Naismith publishes the rules for basketball.

1/10/1776 - Thomas Paine publishes Common Sense.

1/8/1815 - War of 1812: Battle of New Orleans - Andrew Jackson leads American forces in victory over the British.