today in history

In 1789, Enceladus, one of Saturn’s moons, was discovered. Scientists think the moon may have underground fluids, making it one of the top planets in the solar system where extraterrestrial life might exist.

In 1828, Count Leo Tolstoy, one of the world’s great classical writers, was born at Yasnaya Polyana, in Russia. Tolstoy did not distinguish himself in university, but began making his mark as a writer in 1854 with his brilliant sketches of the Crimean War.

In 1833, an act abolishing slavery throughout the British Colonies received royal assent. It came into force on Aug. 1, 1834. It was the result of a campaign by abolitionists internationally, and in the British Parliament by an alliance of Evangelical Anglicans and Quakers led by MP William Wilberforce.

In 1904, the first jail sentence for speeding was handed down in Newport, R.I. — five days — for driving 32 km/h.

In 1914, British and German forces fought the first major naval battle of the First World War, the Battle of Heligoland Bight.

In 1922, radio station WEAF in New York City aired the first radio commercial — a 10-minute pitch for a new co-op apartment house.

In 1957, three armed men stole $5,400 in American funds from a CNR passenger train on a run from Windsor, Ont., to Toronto. It was Canada’s first train robbery since 1928.