November 1st, 1765:

The Stamp Act takes effect, as Britain imposes a tax on its American colonists.

They respond with stiff resistance --- and Britain later repeals the Act.

But the episode sets the stage for the American Revolution a decade later.

1952:

The United States explodes the first hydrogen bomb, code-named "mike."

The test takes place at Eniwetok Atoll in the Marshall Islands in the South Pacific.

1512:

At the Vatican, Michelangelo's paintings on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel are first shown to the public.

1954:

In North Africa, Algerian nationalists begin their successful eight-year rebellion against French rule.

And, 1999:

Walter Payton, the NFL's all-time leading rusher, dies of bile duct cancer in Barrington, Illinois.

The former Chicago Bears running back was 45 (years old).

Today in History, November 1st --- ___ ___, The Associated Press.