TODAY IN HISTORY

1844

A 12-inch gun aboard the USS Princeton exploded as the ship was sailing on the Potomac River, killing Secretary of State Abel P. Upshur, Navy Secretary Thomas W. Gilmer and several others.

1849

The California gold rush began in earnest as regular steamship service started bringing gold-seekers to San Francisco.

1953

Scientists James D. Watson and Francis H.C. Crick announced they had discovered the double-helix structure of DNA.

1996

Britain's Princess Diana agreed to divorce Prince Charles. (Their 15-year marriage officially ended in August 1996.)