Today in History: February 2, American Sniper' Chris Kyle killed

"Today is Monday, Feb. 2, the 33rd day of 2026. There are 332 days left in the year. Today in history: On Feb. 2, 2013, former Navy SEAL and American Sniper author Chris Kyle was fatally shot along with a friend at a gun range west of Glen Rose, Texas; Eddie Ray Routh was later convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole."

"Also on this date: In 1536, present-day Buenos Aires, Argentina, was founded by Spanish explorer Pedro de Mendoza. In 1653, New Amsterdam now New York City was incorporated as a city. In 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed, officially ending the Mexican-American War. In 1925, the legendary Alaska Serum Run ended as the last of a series of dog mushers brought life-saving medication to Nome, the scene of a diphtheria epidemic, traveling 674 miles in just six days."

"In 1943, the remainder of Nazi forces at the Battle of Stalingrad surrendered in a major victory for the Soviets in World War II. In 1990, in a dramatic concession to South Africa's Black majority, President F.W. de Klerk lifted a ban on the African National Congress and promised to free Nelson Mandela. In 1992, Vaclav Havel, the dissident playwright who led an anti-communist revolution, became the first president of the independent Czech Republic, after Czechoslovakia's split."

Feb. 2, 2026 is the 33rd day of the year; 332 days remain. On Feb. 2, 2013, former Navy SEAL and American Sniper author Chris Kyle was fatally shot along with a friend at a gun range west of Glen Rose, Texas; Eddie Ray Routh was later convicted and sentenced to life without parole. Historic anniversaries on Feb. 2 include the 1536 founding of present-day Buenos Aires, the 1653 incorporation of New Amsterdam, the 1848 Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ending the Mexican-American War, the 1925 Alaska Serum Run, and the 1943 surrender at Stalingrad. The date also notes political milestones in 1990 and 1992 and later cultural events and notable deaths. Birthdays include Graham Nash (84), Barry Diller (84), Ina Garten (78), and Brent Spiner (77).

Read at www.mercurynews.com