TODAY IN HISTORY 1927

TODAY’S HIGHLIGHT March 11, 1942

As Japanese forces continued to advance in the Pacific during World War II, U.S. Army Gen. Douglas MacArthur left the Philippines for Australia, where he vowed on March 20, “I shall return” — a promise he kept more than 2½ years later.

ALSO ON THIS DATE 1861

The Constitution of the Confederate States of America was adopted by the Confederate Congress in Montgomery, Alabama.

1867

The Giuseppe Verdi opera “Don Carlo” had its world premiere in Paris as a five-act French version titled “Don Carlos.”

1888

The Blizzard of ‘88, also known as the “Great White Hurricane,” began inundating the northeastern United States, resulting in some 400 deaths. New York City’s legendary Roxy Theatre held its grand opening; the evening featured the premiere of the silent film drama “The Love of Sunya,” starring Gloria Swanson, who was among the celebrities in attendance.

1935

The Bank of Canada began operations, issuing its first series of bank notes.

1957

Charles Van Doren’s 14-week run on the rigged NBC game show “Twenty-One” ended as he was “defeated” by attorney Vivienne Nearing; Van Doren’s take was $129,000. American explorer Richard E. Byrd died in Boston at age 68.