This Week in Automotive History: Jan. 28-Feb. 3

Jan. 28, 1961

Hello, Jaguar: Jaguar E-Type debuts at Geneva Auto Show.

Jan. 29, 1843

William McKinley is born: The first U.S. president to ride in a car, William McKinley, is born in Niles, Ohio.

Jan. 30, 1920

Mazda is Founded: The Mazda Motor Corporation is first founded as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co. in Japan

Jan. 31, 1980

Ontario Touts Rebates: Ontario announces it will rebate up to $700 in sales tax for buyers of 1979 model cars in an effort to aid slumping car sales.

Feb. 1, 1898

First Auto Insurance Policy: The first U.S. auto insurance policy is issued by Travelers Insurance Co.

Feb. 2, 1923

First sales of Ethyl Gasoline: The first Ethyl gasoline goes on sale at a roadside station in Dayton, Ohio.
Leaded gasoline would be phased out in the 1970s.

Feb. 3, 1962

Cuban Trade Embargo: President Kennedy bans all trade with Cuba — including automobiles.