August 8th, 1974:

In Washington, President Richard Nixon says he will resign, amid damaging new revelations in the Watergate scandal...

1963:

Britain's "Great Train Robbery", as thieves hold up the Glasgow-to-London mail train in an audacious heist.

They steal £2.6 million in banknotes - a sum that's equivalent to tens of millions of dollars today.

1942:

In Washington, six convicted Nazi saboteurs are executed after landing in the United States during World War II.

Two more saboteurs convicted in the case receive prison sentences.

1879:

Emiliano Zapata, one of the major figures during the Mexican Revolution in the early 20th century, is born.

And, 1937:

Oscar-winning actor Dustin Hoffman is born in Los Angeles.

Among his roles: The Graduate, Midnight Cowboy, Kramer vs. Kramer, Tootsie and Rain Man.

Today in History, August 8th,______, The Associated Press.