July 18

Tuesday 18, 1995:

On the Caribbean island of Montserrat, the Soufriere Hills volcano erupts. Over the course of several years, it devastates the island, destroying the capital and forcing most of the population to flee.

Monday 18, 1994:

A court upholds NBA salary cap and draft rights.

Tuesday 18, 1989:

Rebecca Schaeffer is shot by a crazed fan, prompting California to pass America's first anti-stalking law in 1990.

Saturday 18, 1863:

American Civil War: The first formal African American military unit, the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, unsuccessfully assaults Confederate-held Fort Wagner but their valiant fighting still proves the worth of African American soldiers during the war.

Sunday 18, 1830:

Uruguay adopts its first constitution.