Today in History: 17 April 1941

WWII: The Kingdom of Yugoslavia Surrenders to Germany

On this day in 1941, the Kingdom of Yugoslavia surrendered to Nazi Germany in World War II.

Today in History: 13 April 1861

Fort Sumter Surrenders to Confederate Troops

ABOVE: Fort Sumter

ABOVE: Fort Sumter from the Charleston Defences

On this day in 1861, Fort Sumter, the island fort in the entrance to Charleston Harbor surrendered to Confederate troops following a fierce bombardment that had begun the previous day. The Battle of Fort Sumter was the first major battle of the American Civil War.

For more, visit:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_Sumter
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Fort_Sumter

Books:
– Within Fort Sumter, by A. Fletcher
– Major Robert Anderson and Fort Sumter, by Eba Anderson Lawton

Today in History: 20 January 1356

Scotland: Abdication of Edward Balliol from the Scottish Throne

The reign of Edward Balliol as Scottish monarch was assisted through the backing of Edward III of England, when he gained the crown in September 1332 through  what was essentially a coup with English complicity. The reign was interrupted after just three months by forces loyal to the true King of Scotland (David II) at the end of 1332 and he retreated to England.

In 1333, through the Battle of Halidon Hill, Balliol was restored to the throne. He was dethroned again in 1334 and gained it once again in 1335. However, he essentially lost the throne for all time in 1336. More battles would follow, but he had little true support in Scotland.

On this day in 1356, Balliol surrendered all claims to the Scottish throne to Edward III in exchange for an English pension.