1 March
Name the former child star of Charlie Chaplin's film 'The Kid', who died today in 1984.
-Jackie Coogan
Bandleader Glenn Miller was born today in 1904. What is his theme tune?
-'Moonlight Serenade'
Who returned to Cyprus today in 1959 after a three year exile?
-Archbishop Makarios
Today in 1912, George Grossmith died. With his brother Weedon he wrote a diary of Charles Pooter. What is it called?
-'Diary of a Nobody'
Today in 1966, an unmanned Soviet spaceship crashed on which planet?
-Venus (it was the first artificial object to hit another planet)
2 March
Today in 1961, who reached the top of the UK pop charts with 'Walk Right Back'?
-The Everley Brothers
Born in New Zealand today in 1949, which sailor and author became the first woman to sail solo round Cape Horn?
-Dame Naomi James
Egyptologist Howard Carter died today in 1939. In which valley did he make his famous discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb?
-The Valley of the Kings
Today in 1969, the French-built Concorde made its first flight. In which city was it constructed?
-Toulouse
Cuban actor Desi Arnaz was born today in 1917. He formed a company Desilu with his wife. Who was she?
-Lucille Ball
3 March
Which classic John Wayne film went on general release today in 1939, establishing him as a major star?
-'Stagecoach'
Florida became an American state today in 1845. What is its nickname?
-'The Sunshine State'
Daniel Kaminsky died today in 1987. By what name was this American entertainer better known?
-Danny Kaye
Born today in 1831, who was the American businessman and inventor of railway sleeping cars?
-George Pullman
Born today in 1920, which English cartoonist became famous for his drawings of the St. Trinian's schoolgirls?
-Ronald Searle
4 March
The presenter of TV's 'The Sky at Night', Patrick Moore, was born today in 1923. In which year did the programme start?
-1957
Officially opened today in 1890, which is Britain's longest cantilever bridge?
-The Forth Bridge
Today in 1877, Tchaikovsky's ballet 'Swan Lake' was first performed. Name his two other ballets.
-'The Sleeping Beauty' and 'The Nutcracker'
Name the composer of the popular 'The Four Seasons', who was born today in 1673.
-Antonio Vivaldi
Today in 1824, Sir William Hillary founded the R.N.L.I. What do the initials R.N.L.I. stand for?
-The Royal National Lifeboat Institution
5 March
Which athlete was banned for life today in 1993 after failing a drugs test?
-Ben Johnson
Actress Ann George was born today in 1903. Which character did she play in 'Crossroads'?
-Amy Turtle
Born today in 1947, which British singer came fourth in the 1971 Eurovision Song Contest with 'Jack in the Box'?
-Clodagh Rodgers
According to Churchill in a speech made today in 1946, what had 'descended across Europe'?
-'An Iron Curtain' (he popularised the phrase)
Name the Russian composer of the symphonic fairy tale 'Peter and the Wolf', who died today in 1953.
-Sergey Prokofiev
6 March
Born today in 1917 Frankie Howerd played the Roman slave Lurcio in 'Up Pompeii'. What was the sequel called?
-'Further Up Pompeii'
Who played dual roles in the film comedy 'Kissin' Cousins', released in America today in 1964?
-Elvis Presley
Intrepid 'Blue Peter' presenter John Noakes was born today in 1934. Name the dog with whom he is most associated.
-Shep
American novelist Louisa May Alcott died today in 1888. What was the surname of the sisters in her classic 'Little Women'?
-March
Which West African country has Accra as its capital and gained independence from Britain today in 1957?
-Ghana
7 March
Motor racing champion Jack Brabham won his last Grand Prix today in 1970: What is his nationality?
-Australian
Born today in 1958, which alternative comedian created the character Kevin Turvey?
-Rik Mayall
The Earl of Snowdon was born today in 1930. Whom did he marry in 1960?
-Princess Margaret
Born today in 1944, who completed the longest unsupported trek in Antarctica with Dr. Michael Stroud?
-Sir Ranulph Fiennes (in 1993)
Today in 1970, which film star reached Number One in the UK pop charts with 'Wand'rin' Star'?
-Lee Marvin
8 March
Known as 'The King of Daredevil Comedy' and 'The Human Rubber Ball', which silent film star died today in 1971?
-Harold Lloyd
Today in 1937, 'The Road to Wigan Pier' was published. Who wrote it?
-George Orwell
Name the English composer of 'Fagade' and 'Belshazzar's Feast', who died today in 1983.
-Sir William Walton
Named after a former French President which airport was opened in Paris today in 1974?
-Charles de Gaulle
Micky Dolenz was born today in 1945. He was a member of which pop group?
-The Monkees
9 March
Actress Barbara Mullen died today in 1979. What was the name of the housekeeper she played in TV's 'Dr. Finlay's Casebook'?
-Janet
Who was elected Prime Minister of Ireland today in 1982?
-Charles Haughey
In which industry did a national strike begin today in 1984?
-Mining
Born today in 1881, who was appointed minister of labour and national service during the Second World War?
-Ernest Bevin
Which volunteer corps was founded today in 1831 to serve in France's African colonies?
-The French Foreign Legion
10 March
Footballer Garth Crooks was born today in 1958. He's played for two London clubs Charlton Athletic and which other?
-Tottenham Hotspur
Born Reginald Truscott Jones who starred in the Hitchcock film 'Dial M For Murder' and died today in 1986?
-Ray Milland
William Etty was born today in 1787. With which branch of the arts is he associated?
-Painting
Which singer reached the top of the UK pop charts today in 1960 with 'Poor Me ?
-Adam Faith
Born today in 1964, who hoped to begin a theatrical career by joining Andrew Lloyd Webber's Really Useful Theatre Company?
-Prince Edward
11 March
Born today in 1932, who was Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1983 until his resignation six years later?
-Nigel Lawson
Born today in 1931, which newspaper magnate bought the News of the World in 1969?
-Rupert Murdoch
Today in 1985, Wham! announced it would be the first Western pop group to tour which country?
-China
Today in 1976, who received a Gold Disc for his hit song 'Fifty Ways to Leave Your Lover'?
-Paul Simon
Today in 1851, Verdi's opera 'Rigoletto' was first performed. In which city?
-Venice
12 March
Which pop star married Linda Eastman today in 1969?
-Paul McCartney
Composer Thomas Arne was born today in 1710. Which patriotic song did he write?
-'Rule Britannia'
Today in 1993 the BBC announced the scrapping of 'Eldorado'. In which fictional Spanish town was the TV soap set?
-Los Barcos
Born today in 1908, who was known for his comical walks and the character Professor Wallofsky?
-Max Wall
Googie Withers was born today in 1917. In which TV series did she play the governess of Stone Park women's prison?
-'Within These Walls'
13 March
Born today in 1939 which singer enjoyed his first top ten success in the UK pop charts in 1959 with 'I Go Ape'?
-Neil Sedaka
Larger than life actress and entertainer, Tessie O'Shea was born today in 1914. What was her nickname?
-'Two-Ton Tessie'
Which planet was discovered by Sir William Herschel today in 1781?
-Uranus
Sir Robert Mark celebrates a birthday today. What position did he hold from 1972 to 1977?
-Metropolitan Police Commissioner
In which country was boxer Joe Bugner born today in 1950?
-Hungary
14 March
Which film actor was born Maurice Micklewhite today in 1933?
-Michael Caine
Which American film choreographer, renowned for his spectacular dance sequences, died today in 1976?
-Busby Berkeley
First performed today in 1885, which Gilbert and Sullivan operetta is subtitled 'The Town of Titipu'?
-'The Mikado'
Born today in 1945, which comedian stars with Robert Powell in the spoof TV series 'The Detectives'?
-Jasper Carrott
Which controversial horror film, based on a novel by William Peter Blatty, opened in London today in 1974?
-'The Exorcist'
15 March
Which musical, featuring the songs 'Ascot Gavotte' and 'Why Can't the English?', opened in New York today in 1956?
-'My Fair Lady'
Julius Caesar was assassinated today 'the Ides of March' but in which year? (You're allowed five years either way)
- 44BC
Which prestigious car company was formed today in 1906?
-Rolls-Royce
Who pioneered a process for mass-producing steel and died today in 1898?
-Sir Henry Bessemer
The Beach Boys' lead singer, Mike Love, was born today in 1941. They had two UK Number Ones 'Do It Again' and which other?
-'Good Vibrations'
16 March
Who delivered Britain's Spring Budget today in 1993?
-Norman Lamont
'Rumpole of the Bailey' star, Leo McKern, was born today in 1920. What is Rumpole's first name?
-Horace
Born today in 1926, which American comedian teamed up with Dean Martin for a successful series of films?
-Jerry Lewis
Born today in 1789, which German physicist has a unit of electrical resistance named after him?
-George Ohm
Today in 1973, the new London Bridge was opened. The old one had been sold to America and rebuilt in which state?
-Arizona
17 March
Born today in 1939, which yachtsman became the first to sail solo non-stop around the world?
-Robin Knox-Johnson
American actor Patrick Duffy was born today in 1949. In which TV series did he star as an amnesiac with webbed hands and feet?
-'The Man From Atlantis'
What was the name of the oil tanker which ran aground oft the coast of Brittany today in 1978, causing major pollution?
-The Amoco Cadiz
Which veteran American actress won an Oscar for playing an elderly stowaway in 'Airport' and died today in 1993?
-Helen Hayes
'Pretend' and 'Smile' were fifties hits for which singer, born today in 1919?
-Nat 'King' Cole
18 March
Who resigned as German chancellor today in 1890?
-Otto von Bismarck
Film actor Robert Donat was born today in 1905. He won an Oscar for his role as a schoolmaster in which film?
-'Goodbye Mr. Chips'
Today in 1834, six farm labourers were sentenced to be transported to a penal colony for forming a union. By what name are they known?
-'The Tolpuddle Martyrs'
Name the Irish-born clergyman and author of 'Tristram Shandy', who died today in 1768.
-Laurence Sterne
Irish snooker player Alex Higgins was born today in 1949. What is his nickname?
-'Hurricane'
19 March
Today in 1859, the opera 'Faust' was premiered in Paris. Who composed it?
-Charles Gounod
Edgar Rice Burroughs, the creator of 'Tarzan', died today in 1950. What is the name of Tarzan's chimpanzee friend?
-Cheetah
Sydney Harbour Bridge was opened today in 1932. Which Australian state is it in?
-New South Wales
Born today in 1936, who played Bond girl Honey in the first James Bond film, 'Doctor No'?
-Ursula Andress
Actor Patrick McGoohan, star of the cult TV series 'The Prisoner , was born today in 1928. His character was referred to by which number?
-Six
20 March
Today in 1806 the foundation stone was laid of which prison in the South West of England?
-Dartmoor
Today in 1956 Tunisia achieved independence from which country?
-France
Born today in 1828, which Norwegian dramatist wrote 'Hedda Gabler' and 'A Doll's House'?
-Henrik Ibsen
Born today in 1917, which veteran female singer had fifties hits with 'Forget Me Not' and 'Auf Wiedersehen'?
-Dame Vera Lynn
Today in 1974, an attempt was made to kidnap which member of the British Royal Family?
-Princess Anne
21 March
Born today in 1944, who made his debut as James Bond in the film 'The Living Daylights'?
-Timothy Dalton
Poet Robert Southey died today in 1843. By what collective name were he and his poet friends Wordsworth and Coleridge known?
-The Lake Poets (because they all lived in the Lake District)
Born today in 1869, American theatre manager Florenz Ziegfeld presented spectacular revues. By what name were they known?
-'The Ziegfeld Follies'
Sir Michael Redgrave died today in 1985. He made his film debut in 'The Lady Vanishes'. Who directed it?
-Alfred Hitchcock
Today in 1946, Labour minister Aneurin Bevan announced plans for which service?
-The National Health Service
22 March
Today in 1975, which group came second in the Eurovision Song Contest with 'Let Me Be the One'?
-The Shadows
Born today in 1931, who is the author of 'The Virgin Soldiers'?
-Leslie Thomas
Today in 1945, which organisation was set up in Cairo by seven Middle Eastern countries?
-The Arab League (The original members were Egypt, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Trans-Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Yemen)
French mime artist Marcel Marceau was born today in 1923. What is the name of his famous white-faced character?
-Bip
Today in 1910, the author Nicholas Monserrat was born. What is the title of his best-selling novel, set on a British warship?
-'The Cruel Sea'
23 March
Today in 1991 the song 'Sooner or Later' won an Oscar. In which film does Madonna sing it?
-'Dick Tracy'
Sir Roger Bannister was bom today in 1929. In which city did he break the 'four minute mile'?
-Oxford
Today in 1961 who reached Number One in the UK pop charts with 'Wooden Heart'?
-Elvis Presley
Today in 1990, the Duchess of York gave birth to her second daughter. Name her.
-Princess Eugenie Victoria Helena
Comedy actor Jimmy Edwards was born today in 1920. In which TV series did he play the headmaster of Chiselbury School?
-'Whack-0!'
24 March
The New York premiere of the play 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' took place today in 1955. Who wrote it?
-Tennessee Williams
Today in 1949 'Hamlet' became the first British film to win an Oscar. Who played the title role?
-Sir Laurence Olivier
Silent film star Roscoe Arbuckle was born today in 1887. What was his nickname?
-'Fatty'
Which American comedian was married to Bebe Daniels and died today in 1979?
-Ben Lyon
Actor Steve McQueen was born today in 1930. In which 1968 film, featuring a classic car chase, does he play a detective?
-'Bullitt'
25 March
Composer Bela Bartok was born today in 1881. What was his nationality?
-Hungarian
Today in 1958 boxer Walker Smith Robinson won the World Middleweight title. What was his nickname?
-'Sugar Ray'
Born today in 1133, which king appointed Thomas a Becket Archbishop of Canterbury?
-Henry II
Today in 1991, who won an Oscar for directing the film 'Dances With Wolves'?
-Kevin Costner
The French composer Debussy died today in 1918. What was his first name?
-Claude
26 March
Diana Ross was born today in 1944. Which other singer did she portray in the film 'Lady Sings the Blues'?
-Billie Holiday
Which group had a Number One UK chart hit today in 1983 with 'Is There Something I Should Know'?
-Duran Duran
Leonard Nimoy was born today in 1931. His 'Star Trek' character Mr. Spock is half human, half what?
-Vulcan
At which location did Prime Minister Begin of Israel and President Sadat of Egypt sign their historic peace treaty today in 1979?
-On the White House lawn in Washington, witnessed by President Carter
Which composer wrote the 'Eroica' Symphony and the 'Emperor' Concerto and died in Vienna today in 1827?
-Ludwig van Beethoven
27 March
Born today in 1912 which former British Prime Minister also served as Foreign and Home Secretary and Chancellor of the Exchequer?
-Lord Callaghan
Born today in 1924, which American jazz singer and pianist was known as 'The Divine One'?
-Sarah Vaughan
Which song took Brotherhood of Man to the top of the UK pop charts today in 1976 and won them the Eurovision Song Contest?
-'Save All Your Kisses For Me'
Born today in 1899, which veteran American actress played Norma Desmond in the film 'Sunset Boulevard'?
-Gloria Swanson
Scottish chemist Sir James Dewar died today in 1923. What useful picnic item did he invent?
-The thermos/vacuum flask
28 March
Born today in 1921, which film actor called a volume of his autobiography 'A Postillion Struck by Lightning'?
-Dirk Bogarde
Today in 1967, who won an Oscar for his role as Sir Thomas More in the film 'A Man for All Seasons'?
-Paul Scofield
Former American President Dwight D. Eisenhower died today in 1969. Who was his Vice President?
-Richard Nixon
Today in 1920, Douglas Fairbanks married 'America's Sweetheart'. Who was she?
-Mary Pickford
Former Labour leader Neil Kinnock was born today in 1942. What is the name of his wife?
-Glenys
29 March
Born today in 1931, which former Conservative MP became Trade and Industry Secretary in 1983 and later Party Chairman?
-Lord Tebbit
Today in 1977, which Australian-born actor was awarded a posthumous Oscar for his role in 'Network'?
-Peter Finch
Today in 1976, who was ousted by a military coup in Argentina?
-President Isabelita Peron
Born today in 1914, which journalist and spy novelist wrote 'Their Trade is Treachery'?
-Chapman Pincher
Name the author of 'Testament of Youth' and 'Testament of Experience', who died today in 1970.
-Vera Brittain
30 March
Australian entertainer Rolf Harris was born today in 1930. What was his first top ten British hit?
-'Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport'
Hollywood star James Cagney died today in 1986. He won an Oscar for his role as a vaudeville star in which 1942 film?
-'Yankee Doodle Dandy'
Which war officially ended today in 1856 with the signing of the Treaty of Paris?
-The Crimean
English dandy George Brummell died today in 1840. What was his nickname?
-'Beau'
Today in 1981, how did John Hinckley Junior make news in Washington DC?
-He shot President Reagan in the chest
31 March
Name the artist who died today in 1837, famous for his paintings 'The White Horse' and 'The Cornfield'.
-John Constable
Which American singer reached the top of the UK pop charts today in 1973 with 'The Twelfth of Never'?
-Donny Osmond
Born today in 1732 who wrote the oratorios 'The Creation' and 'The Seasons'?
-Franz Joseph Haydn
Name the legendary American athlete, who won four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics and died today in 1980.
-Jesse Owens
The film 'Ordinary People' won four Oscars today in 1981. Better known for his acting skills, who directed it?
-Robert Redford