Today in History 1419 John the Fearless is murdered at
Montereau, France, by supporters of the dauphine. 1547 The Duke
of Somerset leads the English to a resounding victory over the
Scots at Pinkie Cleugh. 1588 Thomas Cavendish returns to
England, becoming the third man to circumnavigate the globe.
1623 Lumber and furs are the first cargo to leave New Plymouth
in North America for England. 1813 The nine-ship American
flotilla under Oliver Hazard Perry wrests naval supremacy from
the British on Lake Erie by capturing or destroying a force of
six English vessels. 1846 Elias Howe patents the first practical
sewing machine in the United States. 1855 Sevastopol, under
siege for nearly a year, capitulates to the Allies during the
Crimean War. 1861 Confederates at Carnifex Ferry, Virginia, fall
back after being attacked by Union troops. The action is
instrumental in helping preserve western Virginia for the Union.
1912 J. Vedrines becomes the first pilot to break the 100 m.p.h.
barrier. 1914 The six-day Battle of th