1948

According to the current-era calendar, the independent state of Israel was proclaimed in Tel Aviv by David Ben-Gurion, who became its first prime minister; U.S. President Harry S. Truman immediately recognized the new nation.

1961

Freedom Riders were attacked by violent mobs in Anniston and Birmingham, Alabama.

1998

The hit sitcom “Seinfeld” aired its final episode after nine years on NBC.

2001

The Supreme Court ruled 8-0 that there is no exception in federal law for people to use marijuana for medical purposes.