September 5th, 2008

Today in History

2002:
The Sour Biscuit Fire in Oregon and northern California, United States, which burned 499,570 acres (2,020 km²), is finally contained.

1980:
The St. Gotthard Tunnel opens in Switzerland as the world's longest highway tunnel at 10.14 miles (16.32 km) stretching from Goschenen to Airolo.

1977:
1977 - Hanns-Martin Schleyer, President of the Employers Association, is kidnapped in Cologne, West Germany. Kidnappers kill three escorting police officers and his chauffeur. They demand release of Red Army Faction prisoners

1960:
Muhammad Ali wins the gold medal in boxing at the Rome Olympic Games.

1836:
Sam Houston is elected as the first president of the Republic of Texas.