Highlights of this day in history: President Ronald Reagan is wounded in an assassination attempt; The U.S. reaches a deal with Russia to buy Alaska Territory; Actor James Cagney dies; Musician Eric Clapton born. (March 30)
March 30, 1981:
(AP Photos)
(NAT of Reagan shooting)
Outside a Washington hotel — John Hinckley, Junior shoots President Ronald Reagan and three others.
Presidential aide Lyn Nofziger:
(SOT of Nofziger)
The shooting nearly kills Reagan, early in his presidency — and permanently disables White House Secretary James Brady.
1867:
(AP Photos)
Secretary of State William Seward reaches a deal with Russia to buy the territory of Alaska.
At the time, critics ridicule the seven-point-two million dollar purchase as “Seward’s Folly.”
1986:
(AP Photos)
(SOT of Cagney singing “You’re a Grand Old Flag”)
Actor James Cagney — known for his movie tough guy roles — dies at his farm in upstate New York at age 86.
Cagney won an Oscar for playing Broadway legend George M. Cohan in “Yankee Doodle Dandy.”
And, 1945:
(AP Photos)
(NAT of “Layla”)
British rock musician Eric Clapton is born in Surrey, England.
Today in History, March 30th, Ross Simpson, The Associated Press.
(****END****)
