Today in 1854, Ticknor & Fields published Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel of adultery, "The Scarlet Letter."

Today in 1794, Eli Whitney was granted a patent for the cotton gin, transforming agriculture in the USA.

Today in 1933, FDR used the first televised "fireside chat" to reassure Americans during the Great Depression.

Today in 1855, the steam engine "London" crossed the world's first railway suspension bridge at Niagara Falls.

Today in 1999, director Stanley Kubrick died. His films included 2001, The Shining, and A Clockwork Orange.

Today in 1495, the Renaissance artist and sculptor, Michaelangelo Buonarotti, was born in Caprese, Italy.

No Campfire Required.

It has nothing to do with the movie.