Today in History and Celebrity Birthdays

Today in History for July 22: On this date: In 1582, England's first newspaper, the "English Mercurie," began publication. (The newspaper was later claimed to be a literary hoax written by the second Earl of Hardwicke.

Today in Music History for July 25: In 1874, "The Maple Leaf Forever," one of Canada's most famous patriotic songs, was said to have been performed for the first time during the laying of the foundation stone for the Christian Baptist Church in Newma

Today in Music History for July 23: In 1846, William Featherstone, Canadian Methodist hymn writer, was born. He penned the words to "My Jesus, I Love Thee" before age 16. In 1918, Joseph Gilmore, American Baptist clergyman, died at age 84.

Today in History for July 23: On this date: In 1621, the Virginia colony was granted the New World's first written constitution. In 1767, the Prince Edward Island land lottery was held in London, England.

Today in History for July 20: On this date: In 1576, English explorer Martin Frobisher discovered the bay off Baffin Island that now bears his name. He thought it was a passage dividing America from Asia.

Today in History for July 26: On this date: In 1603, James VI of Scotland was crowned King James I of England.

Today in Music History for July 20: In 1940, Billboard magazine published its first comprehensive singles record chart.

Today in Music History for July 24: In 1725, John Newton, an English slave ship's captain, was born. He was converted to Christianity at age 22, and entered the Anglican ministry.

Today in History for July 24: On this date: In 1216, Cencio Savelli was consecrated Pope Honorius III. During his 11-year pontificate, he confirmed two well-known religious orders: the Dominicans in 1216 and the Franciscans in 1223.

Today in Music History for July 21: In 1920, master violinist Isaac Stern was born. He's credited with saving Carnegie Hall in New York City from demolition.