This Day in History

1683: The first German Mennonite settlers arrive in America. They will establish Germantown, outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

1876: A group of public and university librarians establish the American Library Association to promote the enjoyment of reading.

1927: The Jazz Singer, starring Al Jolson, debuts in New York. It is the first "talkie," or full-length film featuring audible dialogue. Learn more about the history of motion pictures.

1973: Full-scale war erupts in the Middle East, as Egypt and Syria attack Israel while Israelis are observing the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur. Learn more about the War of 1973.

1981: Egyptian president Anwar al-Sadat is assassinated by Muslim extremists. Learn more about Anwar al-Sadat.