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The Almanac

By United Press International
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Today is Aug. 26.


The Dutch East Indies volcano of Krakatoa blew up on this date in 1883, destroying two-thirds of the island and killing 36,000 people. Many were killed by resulting tidal waves. The blast -- regarded as the largest in recorded history -- was heard thousands of miles away. By the way, despite the movie title to the contrary, Krakatoa is actually west of Java.

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The 19th amendment to the U.S. Constitution went into effect on this date in 1920, giving American women the right to vote.


It was on this date in 1964 that delegates to the Democratic National Convention nominated President Lyndon B. Johnson and Minnesota Sen. Hubert Humphrey to head the Democratic ticket. They won in November.


He was known as the "September Pope." On this date in 1978, Cardinal Albino Luciani was elected the 263rd pope. He chose the name John Paul to honor his two immediate predecessors -- Paul VI and John XXIII. John Paul sat on St. Peter's Throne only 33 days, dying on Sept. 28.


Two days after ravaging southern Florida, Hurricane Andrew roared ashore in Louisiana bayou country on this date in 1992, causing more death and destruction.

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And, on this date in 1974, Charles Lindbergh died at the age of 72.


We now return you to the present, already in progress.

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