Charles I put on trial during English Civil War

King Charles I of England and Scotland was put on trial for treason by the specially established High Court of Justice on January 20, 1649 amid the English Civil War between supporters of Parliament and the Crown. While the Roundheads (Parliament supporters) accused Charles of being a tyrant, the king questioned the authority of the court to bring him to trial. Ultimately, the court convicted Charles, and the king was executed on January 30, 1649.

Read Charles’ words spoken in his defense.

THIS DAY @ LAW

Anita Hill accused Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment

On October 6, 1991, law professor Anita Hill accused Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment, turning his nomination hearings into a national spectacle. Thomas was approved by a full Senate vote of 52-48 on October 15. Read an excerpted version of Hill's testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee on October 11.

Egypt President Anwar Sadat assassinated

On October 6, 1981, Egyptian President Anwar Sadat was assassinated by militants in retaliation for signing a peace treaty with Israel.