October 15th, 2008

Today in History

1991:
Following a bitter confirmation hearing that involved allegations of sexual misconduct, the United States Senate votes to confirm Judge Clarence Thomas to the Supreme Court of the United States.

1962:
Cuban Missile Crisis: A stand-off ensues between the United States and the Soviet Union over Soviet nuclear weapons in Cuba.

1953:
British nuclear test Totem 1 detonated at Emu Field, South Australia.

1940:
The Great Dictator, a satiric social commentary film by and starring Charlie Chaplin, is released.

1917:
World War I: At Vincennes outside of Paris, Dutch dancer Mata Hari is executed by firing squad for spying for Germany.