A pilot set off on a historic flight on this day in 1927.

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A famous wife was beheaded on this day in 1536.

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Mount Saint Helens erupted on this day in 1980.

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A historic court ruling was announced on this day in 1954.

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Scientists announced a troubling discovery on this day in 1985.

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An American trailblazer was born on this day in 1937.

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"Hello, and welcome to This Day in History. Here’s what happened on May 14th.

As we count down to this summer’s Olympics, we look back on this day 120 years ago, when the first Olympic Games held in the United States, opened in St. Louis, Missouri. The 1904 Games were actually initially awarded to Chicago, Illinois, but were later given to St. Louis to be staged in connection with the St. Louis World Exposition. Like the Second Olympiad, held in Paris in 1900, the St. Louis Games were poorly organized and overshadowed by the World’s Fair.

Surprising fact? There were few entrants other than Americans in the various events—so U.S. athletes won most competitions and the unofficial team championship. 

Also on this day in history: In 1804, Lewis and Clark departed to explore the Northwest; in 1973, America’s first space station, Skylab, was launched; and in 1998, Frank Sinatra died."

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A war between neighbors was declared on this day in 1846.

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A screen legend was born on this day in 1907.

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The world lost a music legend on this day in 1981.

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The transcontinental railroad was completed on this day in 1869.

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