On this day

James VI of Scotland, later James I – and first Stuart king – of England, was born in Edinburgh Castle.

1566:

Blaise Pascal, French mathematician and philosopher who invented the first calculating machines, was born. The London Metropolitan Police was founded by Sir Robert Peel. Bessie Wallis Warfield (Mrs Simpson) was born in Baltimore. She later became the Duchess of Windsor, after Edward VIII abdicated the throne because of his love for her.

1623: 1829: 1896: 1903:

Wally Hammond, England and Gloucester cricketer, was born.

1905:

The world’s first all-motion picture theatre opened in Pittsburgh.

1967:

The Monterey Pop Festival attracted thousands of hippies.