Today in History and Celebrity Birthdays

Today in History for July 23: On this date: In 1621, the Virginia colony was granted the New World's first written constitution. In 1767, the Prince Edward Island land lottery was held in London, England.

Celebrity Birthdays for July 24: Political cartoonist Pat Oliphant is 90. Actor Dan Hedaya is 85. Actor Chris Sarandon is 83. Actor Robert Hays ("Airplane!") is 78. Actor Michael Richards ("Seinfeld") is 76. Actress Lynda Carter is 74.

Today in Music History for July 24: In 1725, John Newton, an English slave ship's captain, was born. He was converted to Christianity at age 22, and entered the Anglican ministry.

Today in History for July 24: On this date: In 1216, Cencio Savelli was consecrated Pope Honorius III. During his 11-year pontificate, he confirmed two well-known religious orders: the Dominicans in 1216 and the Franciscans in 1223.