* On Jan. 9, 1776, writer Thomas Paine publishes his pamphlet "Common Sense," setting forth his arguments in favor of American independence. Pamphlets were an important medium for the spread of ideas in the 16th through 19th centuries.

* On Jan. 12, 1926, the two-man comedy series "Sam 'n' Henry" debuts on Chicago's WGN radio station. Two years later, after changing its name to "Amos 'n' Andy," it became one of the most popular radio programs in American history.

* On Jan. 11, 1935, American aviatrix Amelia Earhart departs Wheeler Field in Honolulu on a solo flight to North America. Hawaiia...