Today In History [13th May, 2015]

A chronological timetable of historical events that occurred on this day in history. Historical facts of the day in the areas of military, politics, science, music, sports, arts, entertainment and more. Discover what happened today in history.

Today in History
May 13

1607   English colonists land near the James River in Virginia.
1648   Margaret Jones of Plymouth is found guilty of witchcraft and is sentenced to be hanged.
1779   The War of Bavarian Succession ends.
1846   The United States declares war on Mexico after fighting has already begun.
1861   Britain declares its neutrality in the American Civil War.
1864   The Battle of Resaca commences as Union General Sherman fights towards Atlanta.
1888   Slavery is abolished in Brazil.
1912   The Royal Flying Corps is established in England.
1913   Igor Sikorsky flies the first four-engine aircraft.
1944   Allied forces in Italy break through the German Gustav Line into the Liri Valley.
1958   French troops take control of Algiers.
1968   Peace talks between the United States and North Vietnam begin in Paris.
1981   Pope John Paul II survives an assassination attempt.

Born on May 13
1729   Henry William Stiegel, early American glassmaker.
1842   Sir Arthur Sullivan, composer, collaborator with W.S. Gilbert.
1857   Ronald Ross, bacteriologist.
1907   Daphne du Maurier, author (Rebecca).
1912   Gil Evans, jazz pianist and composer.
1914   Joe Louis, world heavyweight boxing champion from 1937 to 1949.
1940   Bruce Chatwin, travel writer (Patagonia).