ON THIS DAY
51 years ago (1967)
Our front page revealed Labour PM Harold Wilson’s “shock” decision to devalue the pound.
Speaking in a televised broadcast, he claimed it was to tackle the “root cause” of Britain’s economic problems and said, although it was a “hard decision”, the alternative was to borrow money from overseas on “unacceptable terms”.
He also announced cuts to public spending and curbs on borrowing.
73 years ago (1945)
Political and military leaders of the Third Reich went on trial in Nuremberg, Germany.
The charges against the 20 leading Nazis included waging a war of aggression, violating the customs of warfare and committing crimes against humanity.
British judge, Norman Birkett, described it as “the greatest trial in history.”
43 years ago (1975)
Spanish dictator General Franco died, aged 82, after ruling Spain for 39 years.
He was buried at the Valley of the Fallen mausoleum built on his orders by prisoners of the Spanish Civil War.
His death ushered in a new era of democracy for Spain.
26 years ago (1992)
A blaze raged through Windsor Castle, threatening one of the world’s greatest art collections. The fire started in a first-floor chapel and spread quickly. Restoration cost £40million.