Peek at the Past: Today in the nation's history

Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2003

Today is the 322nd day of 2003 and the 57th day of autumn.

TODAY'S HISTORY

On this day in 1865, the New York Saturday Press published Mark Twain's humorous short story "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County."

On this day in 1978, 913 people died in a mass suicide in Jonestown, Guyana, led by the People's Temple leader Jim Jones. Of the dead, 276 were children.

On this day in 1994, Cab Calloway, a popular bandleader, died at the age of 86.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAYS

George Gallup (1901-1984), pollster; Margaret Atwood (1939-), writer, is 64; Linda Evans (1942-), actress, is 61; Kevin Nealon (1953-), comedian, is 50.

TODAY'S SPORTS

On this day in 1966, Sandy Koufax announced his plans to retire from baseball.

TODAY'S QUOTE

"Polling is merely an instrument for gauging public opinion. When a president or any other leader pays attention to poll results, he is, in effect, paying attention to the views of the people. Any other interpretation is nonsense." -- George Gallup

TODAY'S MOON

Between last quarter (Nov. 17) and new moon (Nov. 23).

Casey Ressler

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