Sunday, July 10, 2011

Click it or ticket

July 10th
On this day in 1962 the three point seat belt is patented in the United States. Before this the seat belt was used almost exclusively in race cars. The common thought of the day was the driver was responsible for their own safety. Still, despite the reduction of automobile fatalities due to mandatory seat belt installation laws, people have to be reminded to buckle before driving.

On this day in 1940 the Battle of Britain began. Germany attacked a British convoy and a dockyard. After France bravely surrendered to Germany, Great Britain knew that it was the next target so it built up it's defenses. through sheer will power it was able to survive day after day of attacks before Hitler chose to attack Russia. Britain was spared after three months and once the United States joined the war, it proved to be a most beneficial take off point for the recapture of Europe.

On this day in 1999 Brandi Chastain scored on the final try of penalty kicks to give the United States victory in the World Cup Final. In celebration she took off her top and skidded on her knees, giving the world an iconic image of victory.

On this day in 1925 John Scopes was tried for teaching evolution in his Dayton, Tennessee classroom. The law was that it was illegal to do so. The trial became known as the "Monkey Trial" and because of all the bad publicity it caused many states to shy away from having similar laws on the books. Scopes was found guilty and was fined $100. The ruling was over turned 2 years later.

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