1961: President John F. Kennedy issued his challenge to the nation in an address to Congress to send a man to the moon and return safely to Earth before the end of the decade. On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong became the first man to step foot on the moon.

1878: Legendary jazz tap dancer Bill "Bojangles" Robinson was born in Richmond, Virginia. His given name was Luther, but he despised it and appropriated that of his younger brother, William. An extraordinary performer and synthesizer of the tap tradition, Robinson is also credited with one major innovation in this American art form: transforming its flat footwork into dancing up on the toes. Many steps Robinson perfected with his trademark clarity, precision, and elegance, including the famous "stair dance," remain part of the tap repertoire today. (Source: Library of Congress)