A European-wide conflict that happened between 1701 and 1715 that was triggered when the Habsburg ruler of Spain, Charles II, died childless.
War of the Spanish Succession
Fact of the Day
1968 was the only year during the 20th century when no member of the British armed services was killed on active service.
Quote of the Day
"The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.
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~ Socrates
On This Day
1541 The German-Swiss Paracelsus, alchemist and 'herald of toxicology' who made significant contributions to the use of chemistry in medicine, died in Salzburg.
1645 Charles I suffered a personal defeat at the Battle of Rowton Heath when the army he was leading lost to the Parliamentarians and thus failed to relieve the Siege of Chester.
1652 Highwayman Captain James Hind was executed for treason. He had targeted Roundheads and become something of a Cavalier hero.
1869 Two speculators, Jay Gould and James Fisk, caused havoc on the New York Gold Exchange when they used insider information obtained through their friendship with US president Ulysses S. Grant to manipulate the price of gold. 'Black Friday' led to economic destabilisation, the ruin of thousands of businessmen, and questions over Grant's presidency, but Gould and Fisk managed to escape prosecution.
