TODAY IN HISTORY

TODAY’S HIGHLIGHT Sept. 8, 1565

A Spanish expedition established the first permanent European settlement in North America at present-day St. Augustine, Florida.

ON THIS DATE 1892

An early version of “The Pledge of Allegiance,” written by Francis Bellamy, appeared in “The Youth’s Companion.” It went: “I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

1939

President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared a “limited national emergency” in response to the outbreak of war in Europe.

1964

Public schools in Prince Edward County, Virginia, reopened after being closed for five years by officials attempting to prevent court-ordered racial desegregation.