Today is Friday, April 21, the 112th day of 2011. There are 253 days left in the year. Today is Good Friday and Earth Day.  On this day in history:

In 1864, Congress authorized the use of the phrase "In God We Trust" on U.S. coins.

In 1898, with the United States and Spain on the verge of war, the U.S. Navy began blockading Cuban ports. Congress authorized creation of the 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry, also known as the "Rough Riders."

In 1966, "Wild Thing" by The Troggs was released in the U.S.

In 1970, millions of Americans concerned about the environment observed the first "Earth Day."

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