TODAY IN HISTORY

In 1475, Michelangelo, famous for his paintings such as the Sistine Chapel, sculpture including David, and architecture -- the rebuilding of St. Peter’s Cathedral -- was born in Caprese, Italy. He died at age 88 in 1564.

In 1617, Louis Hebert signed an agreement that enabled him to become the first known European farmer in New France.

In 1749, the British government outlined a plan to settle Nova Scotia.

In 1784, the settlement of York was officially incorporated as the City of Toronto. The first permanent settlement was established in 1793 and York was designated the capital of Upper Canada, which later became the province of Ontario.

In 1806, English poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning was born.

In 1834, the city of York was renamed Toronto. By this time the city had 10,000 residents. William Lyon Mackenzie was elected mayor in municipal elections held on March 27. His first act was to order wooden sidewalks built and drains dug. When it was learned the work would mean a tax increase, there was a riot in which six people were killed.

In 1836, the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, was finally captured by Mexican General Santa Ana’s forces. The capture followed 13 days of bitter fighting. No survivors were permitted among the Texans and victims included such legendary figures as Davy Crockett and James Bowie.