March 19
1279. A complete rout of numerically superior Song Dynasty forces by the Mongolian forces of Kublai Khan in the naval Battle of Yamen results in the end of the dynasty, and the consolidation of power by the Mongols under the new Yuan Dynasty, which would rule China for the next hundred years.
1918. Congress establishes time zones and daylight savings time.
1945. Adolf Hitler issues a decree that nearly everything of military or economic value in Germany be destroyed by retreating German troops. Reichminster of Armaments Albert Speer undertakes, successfully, to thwart the plan.
1966. An all-black starting 5 for Texas Western (later renamed UTEP) beats notorious racist Adolph Rupp's all-white starting 5 Kentucky team to win the NCAA men's college basketball championship. It is the first time an all black team wins the championship.
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