Today In History

In 1861: The federal government levied an income tax for the first time.

In 1864: During the Civil War, Union Adm. David G. Farragut is said to have given his famous order, “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!” as he led his fleet against Mobile Bay, Ala.

In 1884: The cornerstone for the Statue of Liberty was laid.

In 1957: “American Bandstand,” hosted by Dick Clark, made its debut on ABC-TV.

In 1962: Actress Marilyn Monroe, 36, was found dead in her Los Angeles home. Her death was ruled a “probable suicide” from an overdose of sleeping pills.