Today in History May 30

1806

Already infamous for his quick temper, Andrew Jackson challenges Charles Dickinson to a duel for publishing an article citing Jackson’s wife’s bigamy. America’s future seventh president takes a bullet that lodges near his heart, and then carefully aims at his foe, fires, and kills him.

1911

The world’s best drivers compete for a purse of $27,550 at the 1911 International 500-Mile Sweepstakes Race, Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s first ‘500’ competition. Ray Harroun comes out of retirement for the race, and he wins it in his self-built six-cylinder Marmon ‘Wasp.’

1935

Playing for the Boston Braves, Babe Ruth appears in his final Major League Baseball game, striking out once before injuring his knee in the first game of a double-header. He will officially retire three days later, with records for career home runs and RBIs, among others.

BIRTHDAYS

1903 Countee Cullen American Poet

1909 Benny Goodman Clarinist

1974 CeeLo Green Musician

1979 Clint Bowyer Race Car Driver