April 5

Columnist Victor Riesel, a crusader against mob infiltration of unions, was blinded in New York City when a hired assailant threw sulfuric acid in his face - 1956
 
14,000 teachers strike Hawaii schools, colleges - 2001
 
A huge underground explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine in Montcoal, W. Va. kills 29 miners. It was the worst U.S. mine disaster in 40 years. The Massey Energy Co. mine had been cited for 2 safety infractions the day before the blast; 57 the month before, and 1,342 in the previous five years - 2010