Today In History

In 1813: The U.S. Navy gained its motto as Capt. James Lawrence, commander of the U.S. frigate “Chesapeake,” said “Don’t give up the ship” during a losing battle with a British frigate.

In 1968: Author-lecturer Helen Keller, who earned a college degree despite being blind and deaf almost all of her life, died in Westport, Conn.

In 1980: Cable News Network made its debut.