Historical Events — July 10
Telstar 1 Launches — 1962
AT&T's Telstar 1 rocketed into orbit as the first commercial communications satellite, built and financed by Bell Labs at a cost north of $50 million and relaying the first live transatlantic television signal hours after launch. The mission proved satellite telecom could be a business rather than a government science project, kicking off a decades-long capital race among carriers to control the skies above.
Lady Jane Grey Proclaimed Queen of England — 1553
The 16-year-old great-granddaughter of Henry VII was installed on the throne by a faction seeking to keep the Catholic Mary Tudor from succeeding the dying King Edward VI. Her reign lasted just nine days before Mary's forces retook London and had her arrested; Grey was executed the following February, earning her the epithet "the Nine Days' Queen."
Battle of Britain Begins — 1940
The Luftwaffe launched its first coordinated raids against British shipping convoys and coastal targets, opening a four-month air campaign meant to clear the skies for a German invasion. The Royal Air Force's ability to hold the line, aided by early radar and tight fighter allocation, forced Hitler to indefinitely shelve Operation Sea Lion.
USA Wins Second Women's World Cup Title — 1999
Brandi Chastain buried the winning penalty kick as the United States beat China 5-4 on penalties after 120 scoreless minutes at the Rose Bowl, capturing the country's second Women's World Cup title in front of more than 90,000 fans. The tournament, and Chastain's shirt-off celebration, became a watershed moment for investment and sponsorship in U.S. women's sports.
Rolling Stones' "Satisfaction" Hits No. 1 — 1965
"(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" topped the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the Rolling Stones' first U.S. No. 1 single and cementing Keith Richards' fuzz-toned guitar riff as one of rock's most recognizable hooks. It held the top spot for four weeks and remains the band's signature track six decades later.