100 years ago today, American Gertrude Ederle became the first woman to swim across the English Channel. (1991)14 years ago today, NASA’s Curiosity rover landed on Mars to begin a long and illustrious career as a robotic surveyor and geologist. WATCH that goal… (1983)64 years ago today, Jamaica reserved for itself full independence from both Great Britain and the Federation of the West Indies. (1962)215 years ago today, Alfred Lord Tennyson, one of England’s most quoted poets, was born. – TennysonAlso, 44 years ago today, Pink Floyd’s film The Wall starring Bob Geldof debuted in America.