Today in History

Today in History for Nov. 3: On this date: In 1580, English explorer Sir Francis Drake returned from his voyage around the world. In 1640, England's Long Parliament -- the name given to the fifth and last parliament of Charles I -- assembled.

Today in History for Nov. 2: On this date: In 1164, Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Becket began a six-year self-imposed exile in France. Once a close friend of England's Henry II, Becket had become an outspoken opponent of the king's royal policies.

Today in History for Nov. 1: On this date: In 1512, Michelangelo's paintings in the Sistine Chapel in Rome were first exhibited to the public.

Today in History for Oct. 31: Today is Halloween. The word "Halloween," comes from a contraction of "All Hallows Eve," the night before a Catholic holiday in honour of saints. One Celtic story says that on Oct.

Today in History for Oct. 30: On this date: In 1536, Denmark adopted Lutheranism as its official state religion. In 1768, the first Methodist chapel in the New World was dedicated in New York City.

Today in History for Oct. 29: On this date: In 1618, Sir Walter Raleigh was executed in London on charges of treason against King James I.

Today in History for Oct. 20: In 1632, Sir Christopher Wren, British astronomer and architect, was born. He designed 53 London churches, including St.

Today in Music History for Oct. 20: In 1828, American lawyer and hymnwriter Horatio Gates Spafford was born.

Celebrity Birthdays for Oct. 20: Japan's Empress Michiko is 83. Rockabilly singer Wanda Jackson is 80. Former actress Rev. Mother Dolores Hart is 79. Ric Lee, drummer with Ten Years After, is 72. Actor William "Rusty" Russ is 67.

Today in Music History for Oct. 19: In 1889, recording industry pioneer Art Satherly was born in Bristol, England.