Today in History – January 5

World History

1. 1757 – Battle of Calcutta
   Why it matters: Increased British control in India, guiding colonial history.
2. 1895 – Alfred Dreyfus Arrested
   Why it matters: Exposed deep antisemitism and shifted French politics and justice reform.
3. 1971 – First ODI Cricket Match Played
   Why it matters: Birth of a global sports phenomenon.

U.S. History

1. 1933 – Golden Gate Bridge Construction Begins
   Why it matters: Later became a world landmark and symbol of American engineering.
2. 1914 – Ford Announces the $5 Workday
   Why it matters: Revolutionized worker pay and boosted middle-class growth.
3. 1994 – Nancy Kerrigan Attacked
   Why it matters: Captivated national media and changed scrutiny of athletes.