Birmingham Church bombing kills four black schoolgirls - This Day in History – Sept 15th

Back in 1963, the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham lost four of their church member’s children when a bomb planted by the Ku Klux Klan exploded.  This church bombing was the 3^rd incident for this region, which suffered major racial segregation issues.

According to history.com, “The church bombing was the third in Birmingham in 11 days after a federal order came down to integrate Alabama's school system. Fifteen sticks of dynamite were planted in the church basement, underneath what turned out to be the girls' restroom.” 

Klan member, Robert Chambliss was charged with murder but was later released. 

Fellow clan members Bobby Frank Cherry, Herman Cash and Thomas E. Blanton, Jr. were also part of the bombing.  

After numerous prosecuting efforts Chambliss was sentence to life in prison in 1977. 

According to history.com, “Efforts to prosecute the other three men believed responsible for the bombing continued for decades. Though Cash died in 1994, Cherry and Blanton were arrested and charged with four counts of murder in 2000. Blanton was convicted and sentenced to life in prison. Cherry's trial was delayed after judges ruled he was mentally incompetent to stand trial. This decision was later reversed. On May 22, 2002, Cherry was convicted and sentenced to life, bringing a long-awaited victory to the friends and families of the four young victims.”

Connie Mack’s Philadelphia Athletics wins 3^rd consecutive pennant

Back in 1931 the Philadelphia Athletics clinched their 3^rd consecutive American League Pennant.  The Athletics won against the Cleveland Indians.  This win was the last championship for legendary manager Cornelius Alexander McGillicuddy aka “Connie Mack.” 

Note: Video is from World Series Athletics vs. St. Louis

Ali beats Spinks for world heavyweight championship

Muhammad Ali proved too much for George Spinks to win the world heavyweight championship back in 1978 at the Louisiana’s Superdome.  Ali made history by becoming the first fighter to win the heavyweight championship for a 3^rd time.

According to history.com, “Following his victory, Ali retired from boxing, only to make a brief comeback two years later. Ali, who once claimed he could "float like a butterfly, sting like a bee," left the sport permanently in 1981.”

Marilyn Monroe shows some leg in future famous movie scene 

Back in 1954, Marilyn Monroe would reach the highs of her superstar sexy status by performing a stunt that involves a skirt and a subway vent.  Ms. Monroe in the movie, “The Seven Year Itch,” stood over a vent and let the breeze move up her skirt – thus exposing her legs.  This scene and her dress are still talked about to this day.  Chicago Illinois has a large statue depicting Ms. Monroe’s famous stance.

The Godfathers of Italian - American Soul hit #1 with “Sherry”

The musical group “The Four Seasons” aka “Godfathers of Italian - American Soul,” scored their first #1 hit in 1962 with the popular tune, “Sherry.”    The “Jersey Boys” used their unique style that sounded fresh throughout the music industry.  Front man Frankie Valley’s unique voice has made this band one of the most recognizable an popular group in music history.  Currently this band’s life story is showcased on the Broadway Musical, “Jersey Boys.”

All History facts provided from the link below:

http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/james-madison-marries-dolley-payne-todd?catId=9