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Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig stopped the annual All-Star Game in the 11th inning

July 9, 2002: The annual MLB All-Star Game took place, which later became known as the “All-Star Game fiasco.” The game ended in a 7-7 tie after 11 innings, as both teams ran out of available pitchers. This unprecedented result sparked controversy and disappointment among players, fans, and officials, as…
July 9, 2023
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General John Hunt Morgan captures Tompkinsville, Kentucky

July 9, 1862:  Morgan’s Raiders embarked on their raid into Kentucky, having crossed over from Tennessee. They launched an attack on the 9th Pennsylvania Cavalry stationed at a USA garrison. During the assault, the Raiders managed to capture 30 soldiers who were retreating, while also causing significant damage by destroying…
July 9, 2023
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Declaration of Independence is read to George Washington’s troops in New York

July 9, 1776: On July 9th, in New York, Washington had the Declaration read to his gathered troops. Later that night, the Americans took down a bronze and lead statue of King George III (1738-1820), situated at the Bowling Green’s base on Broadway, symbolizing their defiance. Washington’s own copy of…
July 9, 2023
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The orbiter Atlantis was launched on the last space shuttle mission.

July 8, 2011: STS-135, the last flight of the orbiter Atlantis, marked the grand finale of the Space Shuttle program. This historic event, documented by NASA, commemorates the culmination of an era in space exploration. The final mission, undertaken by the Space Shuttle Atlantis, was significant in paving the way…
July 8, 2023
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Journalist Charles Henry Dow published the first issue of The Wall Street Journal.

July 8, 1889:  During the 1880s, Dow ventured into journalism, relocating to New York City and joining a financial news service as a reporter. Collaborating with Edward D. Jones in 1882, Dow co-founded Dow Jones & Company. This enterprise provided Wall Street financial institutions with timely bulletins, known as “flimsies”…
July 8, 2023
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Liberty Bell tolls to announce Declaration of Independence

July 8, 1776: The Liberty Bell rang out in Philadelphia, symbolizing the announcement of the Declaration of Independence. The bell’s toll served as a powerful signal to the city’s residents, gathering them to hear the historic document being read aloud. This event marked a significant moment in American history, signifying…
July 8, 2023
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Sandra Day O’Connor nominated to Supreme Court

July 7, 1981: President Reagan fulfilled his campaign promise by nominating Sandra Day O'Connor to the Supreme Court. She was selected to replace Justice Potter Stewart, who was retiring from his position as an Eisenhower appointee. Among a pool of approximately twenty-four male and female candidates, Reagan chose O'Connor as…
July 7, 2023
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Building of Hoover Dam begins

July 7, 1930:  Construction began on the Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel located on the Colorado River between Arizona and Nevada. The ambitious project was undertaken to address the need for water storage, flood control, and electricity generation in the southwestern United States.
July 7, 2023
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Hawaiian Islands annexed by the United States

July 7, 1898: House Joint Resolution 259, also known as the "Newlands Resolution," was approved by Congress and subsequently signed into law by President McKinley. This resolution marked the official annexation of the Hawaiian islands by the United States. Following this event, Sanford Dole assumed the role of the first…
July 7, 2023
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American tennis player Serena Williams defeated her sister Venus to win her first Wimbledon singles title

July 6, 2002: Serena Williams surpassed her sister and claimed the top spot as the world's No. 1 tennis player. She achieved this feat by defeating Venus Williams in straight sets in the finals of the French Open, Wimbledon, and U.S. Open. Serena maintained her dominance by securing the Wimbledon…
July 6, 2023
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Paul McCartney met John Lennon for the first time

July 6, 1957:  The encounter occurred when Lennon's band, The Quarrymen, were performing at the St. Peter's Church fete in Liverpool. McCartney was introduced to Lennon through a mutual friend. This brief meeting marked the beginning of an extraordinary partnership that would shape the course of popular music. Little did…
July 6, 2023
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The first full-length all-talking motion picture, “Lights of New York”, premiered in New York City.

July 6, 1928: "Lights of New York," the first-ever all-talking motion picture, made its premiere at the renowned Strand Theatre. This groundbreaking event marked a major milestone in the film industry, revolutionizing the way stories were told on the big screen.
July 6, 2023
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Seinfeld aired for the first time

July 5, 1989: The American television series, Seinfeld, aired for the first time on NBC. The pilot episode started one of the smallest sitcom orders in television history, with only 5 episodes total in its first season.  Seinfeld (season 1) Season one of Seinfeld, an American television series created by…
July 5, 2023
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Twenty-Sixth Amendment certified

July 5, 1971: After North Carolina ratified the twenty-sixth amendment on July 1st, 1971, the necessary three-fourths of the states’ ratification was obtained for the amendment to become a part of the Constitution. The Administrator of General Services, Robert Kunzig, certified its adoption alongside President Nixon. The amendment protects voting…
July 5, 2023
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Midway Atoll discovered

July 5, 1859: Captain N.C. Brooks sighted what is now known as the Midway Atoll while aboard the sealing ship Gambia. He named the islands the Middlebrook Islands and claimed them for the United States under the Guano Islands Act of 1856. The atoll was the first Pacific island annexed…
July 5, 2023
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Statue of Liberty gifted by France

July 4, 1864: The Statue of Liberty was gifted to the American people by France. The colossal statue was presented to Levi Morton, the American minister to France at the time and future Vice President, in a ceremony in Paris. Later the statue was disassembled and transported to America. The…
July 4, 2023
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Death of two American Founding Fathers

July 4, 1826: On the 50th anniversary of American Independence, two former U.S. Presidents and signers of the Declaration of Independence, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, passed away. Jefferson died first at the age of 83 at his home in Monticello, Virginia, and several hours later, Adams died at the…
July 4, 2023
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Declaration of Independence

July 4, 1776: The American colonies officially separated from Great Britain when the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence. The anniversary of this historic event is marked by Independence Day, which became a federal holiday in 1870.  Independence Day On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental…
July 4, 2023
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Battle of Gettysburg ends

July 3, 1863: The bloodiest battle of the American Civil War was fought from July 1 to July 3, 1863 with 51,000 casualties. The Battle of Gettysburg ended with a Union victory under General George Meade and the Army of the Potomac. Battle of Gettysburg Ends: On This Day,…
July 3, 2023
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Wyoming Massacre

July 3, 1778: During the American Revolution, as the British intensified their attacks in the West, a group of 360 American settlers, men, women, and children, were massacred by a force of 1,000 loyalists and Iroquois allies led by Colonel John Butler.  Wyoming Massacre Wyoming Massacre, (July 3, 1778),…
July 3, 2023
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George Washington assumes command of the Continental Army

July 3, 1775: Despite being commissioned by the Continental Congress as Commander in Chief on June 19, 1775, George Washington didn’t assume command of the Continental Army until he reached Cambridge, Massachusetts, on July 3. He was selected over other candidates, such as John Hancock, based on his military experience…
July 3, 2023
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Civil Rights Act (1964)

July 2, 1964: President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the most significant civil rights legislation since Civil War Reconstruction. The law prohibited discrimination in public places, set up school integration, and outlawed employment discrimination.  Civil Rights Act (1964) This act, signed into law by…
July 2, 2023
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First Walmart store opens

July 2, 1962: Sam Walton opened his grocery store “Walmart” in Rogers, Arkansas, built on the idea of “the lowest prices anytime, anywhere.” By 1970 Walton’s business became a publicly traded company, and Walmart is now a household name. From humble beginnings.To redefining retail. Sam Walton was a man…
July 2, 2023
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President James A. Garfield shot in an assassination

July 2, 1881: President James A. Garfield was only in office for four months before he was shot twice in an assassination attempt. The wound itself wasn’t initially fatal, but the process of removing the bullet led to infections that ultimately caused his death 80 days later. James…
July 2, 2023
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Sony began selling its Walkman, a portable cassette player

July 1, 1979: The invention of the Walkman, four decades ago, marked the beginning of a cultural revolution that transformed the way we listen to music. This iconic device allowed people to carry their music with them wherever they went, freeing them from the constraints of stationary listening. The…
July 1, 2023
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The U.S. Postal Service instituted the Zone Improvement Plan Code (Zip Code)

July 1, 1963:  By categorizing mail based on these codes, the postal service could streamline its operations and improve accuracy and speed in mail delivery. The introduction of ZIP codes revolutionized the postal industry and had a profound impact on businesses and individuals across the nation, ensuring more reliable and…
July 1, 2023
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The Battle of Gettysburg, one of the most important battles of the American Civil War, began.

July 1, 1863: The battle marked a turning point in the Civil War, as the Union successfully defended its position and forced the Confederates to retreat. The Battle of Gettysburg is remembered as a critical moment in American history, where the tide of the Civil War began to shift in…
July 1, 2023
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American author Margaret Mitchell published Gone with the Wind

June 30, 1936: “Gone with the Wind” became an instant sensation upon its publication in 1936. A sweeping romance set during the Civil War; the novel later won a Pulitzer Prize and was adapted into a hugely successful film. Gone with the Wind novel by Mitchell Gone with the…
June 30, 2023
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Jean-François Gravelet, known as Blondin, crossed the Niagara Falls on a tightrope

June 30, 1859:  A rope 1,300 feet long, two inches in diameter and made entirely of hemp would be the sole thing separating him from the roiling waters below. Despite numerous close calls and injuries, the Daredevil’s fearless determination to conquer the mighty falls captured the public’s imagination.  The…
June 30, 2023
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US naval hero Stephen Decatur ends attacks by Algerian pirates

June 30, 1815:  Stephen Decatur’s achievements in the Barbary Conflict helped establish the United States as a formidable force in international affairs and safeguarded American merchant vessels from future attacks. After inflicting further damages on the Algerian fleet, Decatur dictated terms of peace. The agreement stated that, in return for…
June 30, 2023
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The Original iPhone released

June 29, 2007: Apple Inc. released its first-ever smartphone, the iPhone. The product project began two years earlier but was kept a total secret until its public announcement. Thanks in part to the iPhone’s popularity, Apple became the most profitable company of all time.  iPhone (1st generation) From Wikipedia,…
June 29, 2023
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Virginia adopts state constitution

June 29, 1776: Virginia adopted its own constitution early compared to other states and the United States in general. Before the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, Virginia had already adopted its own constitution, and it served as inspiration for subsequent constitutions.  Constitution of Virginia From Wikipedia, the…
June 29, 2023
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British Parliament tax tea for colonists

June 29, 1767: The British Parliament passed the Revenue Act of 1767, part of the immensely unpopular Townshend Acts. The Revenue Act placed taxes on items like glass, paint, paper, and tea, and gave power for general warrants to be used to search private property for smuggled goods.  The…
June 29, 2023
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Bald Eagle no longer an endangered species

June 28, 2007: The U.S. Department of Fishing and Wildlife Services announced that the Bald Eagle had a remarkable population rebound and no longer required the protection of the Endangered Species Act. The iconic American symbol is still protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden…
June 28, 2023
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Treaty of Versailles signed

June 28, 1919: Exactly five years after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the Treaty of Versailles was signed to end the war that the assassination started. The treaty was signed by Germany and most of the Allied Powers.  Treaty of Versailles The Treaty of Versailles[i] was a peace…
June 28, 2023
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Archduke Franz Ferdinand assassinated

June 28, 1914: Heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, Archduke Franz Ferdinand, and his wife Sophie, Duchess of Hohenberg, were assassinated during a drive through Sarajevo. His assassination is considered the spark that set off World War I.  Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia The assassination…
June 28, 2023
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United States enters the Korean War

June 27, 1950: The United States officially entered the Korean War to support the Republic of Korea (South Korea) and repel an invasion from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea). Japan had controlled the Korean Peninsula during WWII, and after Japanese surrender, control of the peninsula was split…
June 27, 2023
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Union defeat at Gaines’ Mill

June 27, 1862: In Hanover County, Virginia, near Gaines’ Mill, the Union V Corps had established a defensive line north of the Chickahominy River. There, Union troops initially beat back oncoming waves of Confederate attacks with heavy casualties, but by the evening, Gen. Robert E. Lee’s troops were more organized,…
June 27, 2023
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James Smithson died, left endowment to the United States of America

June 27, 1829: British scientist James Smithson died and left an endowment “to the United States of America, to found at Washington, under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men.” President James K. Polk signed an act of Congress that…
June 27, 2023
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Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone first published

June 26, 1997: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was first published in the United Kingdom. J.K. Rowling’s book was published by Bloomsbury (UK) and was her debut novel. The book kicked off the world-famous Harry Potter series and is the third best selling book of all time. Harry…
June 26, 2023
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Ich bin ein Berliner speech

June 26, 1963: The “Ich bin ein Berliner” speech is a famous address by President John F. Kennedy in West Berlin when Berlin was divided. Kennedy emphasized the United States’ commitment to the people of West Berlin and their struggle for freedom. It is remembered as one of the most…
June 26, 2023
Flag of the United Nations
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The United Nations Charter signed

June 26, 1945: The United Nations Charter was signed in San Francisco, California. The Charter was the foundational treaty of the United Nations, establishing an international organization to promote peace, security, and cooperation among foreign nations. United Nations Charter The Charter of the United Nations is the founding document…
June 26, 2023
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The first commercial color television show was transmitted by CBS

June 25, 1951: The first-ever commercial network television broadcast in color took place in the United States through the CBS field-sequential color television system. This historic event featured a musical variety special called "Premiere" and was aired on a network of five CBS affiliates on the East Coast.
June 25, 2023
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US President Andrew Johnson passes a law that government workers would work 8 hr day

June 25, 1868:  Congress enacted a law on June 25, 1868, mandating an eight-hour workday for laborers and mechanics working under the Federal Government. Although President Andrew Johnson initially vetoed the law, it was overridden by Congress. While Johnson couldn't explicitly endorse an eight-hour day, he expressed his support for…
June 25, 2023
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1st building constructed at Yerba Buena (now San Francisco)

June 25, 1835: William A. Richardson, the founder of Yerba Buena (later San Francisco), established its initial residence—a tent dwelling. In October 1835, it was replaced by the city's first wooden house, and in 1836, Richardson constructed the notable adobe building called "Casa Grande."…
June 25, 2023
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John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier announced their engagement

June 24, 1953: After dating for two years, John F. Kennedy proposed to Jacqueline Bouvier with a 2.88-carat diamond-and-emerald ring from Van Cleef and Arpels. Their engagement generated considerable media attention and marked the beginning of their influential and iconic partnership.
June 24, 2023
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Charter NFL club Chicago Staleys renamed Chicago Bears 

June 24, 1922:  The Bears franchise was founded in 1920 as the Decatur Staleys by A.E. Staley. George Halas took over and moved the team to Chicago in 1921, winning the APFA championship in their first season and renaming the team the Bears in 1922.
June 24, 2023
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US and Great Britain sign Jay Treaty, 1st US extradition treaty

June 24, 1795: Jay's Treaty, enacted on June 24, 1795, was a diplomatic agreement between the United States and Great Britain. This treaty, negotiated by Chief Justice John Jay, aimed to address various issues stemming from the Treaty of Paris of 1783, which ended the American Revolutionary War.
June 24, 2023
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Title IX

June 23, 1972: Title IX was enacted as part of the Education Amendments of 1972 to prohibit sex-based discrimination in any school or education program which received federal funding. The law came at a time when only 42% of college students were female, and it has led to a significant…
June 23, 2023
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Antarctic Treaty enacted

June 23, 1961: The Antarctic Treaty was enacted as an international agreement to govern Antarctica and the surrounding region as a demilitarized zone protected for scientific study and discovery. The unprecedented treaty was a historic diplomatic achievement signed in Washington, D.C., by 12 countries.  Antarctic Treaty System The Antarctic…
June 23, 2023
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Last Confederate General surrenders in the field

June 23, 1865: Confederate General Stand Watie surrendered at Doaksville in the Choctaw Nation (present-day Oklahoma) by signing a cease-fire agreement with Union representatives. He led the First Indian Brigade of the Army of the Trans-Mississippi and is remembered as the last Confederate General to surrender during the American Civil…
June 23, 2023
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Pluto’s largest moon discovered

June 22, 1978: Charon, Pluto’s largest moon, was discovered by James W. Christy and Robert S. Harrington at the U.S. Naval Observatory station in Flagstaff, Arizona. The moon has a diameter of 1,208 km (751 miles) and over one-tenth the mass of Pluto. It is named after the ferryman of…
June 22, 2023
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Lady and the Tramp released

June 22, 1955: The musical romance animated film Lady and the Tramp was released in American theaters in 1955, but it was also rereleased in 1962, 1972, 1980, and 1986. The film was first made available for home theaters in 1987 when it was made available on VHS and laserdisc. …
June 22, 2023
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G.I. Bill signed into law

June 22, 1944: President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act, also commonly known as the G.I. Bill, into law. The bill aimed to provide WWII veterans with college education funds, unemployment insurance, and assistance with housing.  Servicemen’s Readjustment Act (1944) Signed into law by President Franklin D.
June 22, 2023
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Texas v. Johnson SCOTUS Ruling

June 21, 1989: Texas v. Johnson was the landmark Supreme Court ruling that decided that burning the United States flag was protected speech under the First Amendment because it is considered symbolic speech and political speech. Texas v. Johnson From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Texas v. Johnson, 491 U.S.
June 21, 2023
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Japanese Troops Defeated on Okinawa

June 21, 1945: Following one of the longest and bloodiest battles of World War II, American forces defeated Japanese troops on the Pacific island of Okinawa. With the seizure of the Ryukyu Islandl, the United States was ready to launch an onslaught on the Japanese mainland. Japanese Troops Defeated…
June 21, 2023
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New Hampshire Ratifies the Constitution

June 21, 1788: New Hampshire ratified the United States Constitution during a convention held in Concord, New Hampshire. Its ratification was significant because it was the ninth state to approve the Constitution, reaching the required threshold for the Constitution to become effective and binding between those states. New Hampshire played…
June 21, 2023
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Death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, al Qaeda terrorist leader

June 7, 2006: Abu Musab al-Zarqawi was an al Qaeda terrorist leader and was killed in an air strike in Iraq coordinated by an American military coalition and local Iraqi forces. In President George W. Bush’s statement, he said that Osama bin Laden had referred to al-Zarqawi as  “the prince…
June 7, 2023
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President Lincoln renominated by Republican Party for a second presidential term

June 7, 1864: Amidst the Civil War, President Lincoln remained popular with the Republican Party. Some War Democrats joined Republicans to form the National Union Party, and together they renominated Abraham Lincoln for a second term as president of the Union. The nominating convention was held in Baltimore, Maryland.
June 7, 2023
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Frontiersman Daniel Boone first sees Kentucky

June 7, 1769: Legendary and pioneering frontiersman Daniel Boone first saw what is now considered the Bluegrass region of Kentucky. Boone went on to forge the Wilderness Road, allowing settlers to travel through the Cumberland Gap and into Kentucky. His explorations contributed greatly to the westward expansion of the United…
June 7, 2023
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Getty Family patriarch dies at 83

June 6, 1976: J. Paul Getty was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and died in Surrey, England, at age 83. The American-born businessman created a very wealthy empire from his work in British petroleum. Despite his extreme wealth, he was known to be frugal and charitable. Among many other notable Getty…
June 6, 2023
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D-Day

June 6, 1944: More than 150,000 Allied troops stormed the beaches of Normandy to begin “Operation Overlord,” which began the move to a decisive Allied victory. General Dwight D. Eisenhower led the operation. The significance of this day is also marked by the 6,000 American casualties. Less than a year…
June 6, 2023
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U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission formed

June 6, 1934: Following the stock market crash of 1929, President Franklin D. Roosevelt authorized the creation of the SEC under the New Deal to prevent market manipulation and protect investors.  U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is…
June 6, 2023
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President Ronald Reagan dies at age 93

June 5, 2004: President Ronald Reagan was born on February 6, 1911, in Tampico, Illinois, and died on June 5, 2004, in Los Angeles, California. Reagan began his career as a sportscaster, then actor, before becoming president of the Screen Actors Guild, then Governor of California, and finally President of…
June 5, 2023
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Robert F. Kennedy Assassinated

June 5, 1968: Five years following his brother’s assassination, Robert F. Kennedy was shot and fatally wounded at the Ambassador Hotel following his victory in the California Primary. He died the following day at Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles. Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy From Wikipedia, the free…
June 5, 2023
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Marshall Plan proposed at Harvard

June 5, 1947: Two years after WWII ended, U.S. Secretary of State George Marshall proposed his idea to restore Europe, which was still experiencing famine and post-war destruction. His proposal given at Harvard University was then relayed by President Harry Truman to Congress, and it eventually became known as the…
June 5, 2023
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American musician Bruce Springsteen released Born in the U.S.A

June 4, 1984: The song "Born in the USA" by Bruce Springsteen is a powerful anthem that reflects on the experiences of American veterans returning from the Vietnam War. It depicts the struggles and disillusionment faced by these veterans as they grapple with the harsh reality of post-war life. The…
June 4, 2023
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The 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was passed

June 4, 1919: The 19th Amendment was passed by Congress on June 4, 1919, and later ratified on August 18, 1920. This amendment granted women the right to vote after a lengthy and complicated struggle of protests over decades.
June 4, 2023
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The world’s first shopping carts were introduced in Oklahoma

June 4, 1937:  The world's first shopping carts were introduced by Sylvan Goldman at Humpty Dumpty grocery stores in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Sylvan Goldman's creation revolutionized the way people shopped and became an integral part of the retail industry.
June 4, 2023
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American boxer and social activist Muhammad Ali died at age 74

June 3, 2016: Muhammad Ali, was a renowned boxer who became an influential figure both in and out of the ring. Ali's career spanned three decades, during which he achieved numerous victories and became the heavyweight champion of the world three times. Ali was known for his outspokenness, activism, and…
June 3, 2023
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Jack Jouett rides to warn Thomas Jefferson of British attack

June 3, 1781: Jack Jouett, a lesser-known figure in American history who played a vital role during the Revolutionary War. Dubbed the "Paul Revere of the South," Jouett embarked on a daring midnight ride to warn Thomas Jefferson and the Virginia legislature of the approaching British troops. His heroic act…
June 3, 2023
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The second battle of Cold Harbor began

June 3, 1864:  The second battle of Cold Harbor commenced on June 3, 1864, following the Union's hard-won victory at Spotsylvania Court House. Union General Ulysses S. Grant encountered entrenched Confederate troops led by General Robert E. Lee near Richmond. After nine days of intense fighting, the Union lost 7,000…
June 3, 2023
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NASA lands probe on the moon

June 2, 1966: NASA landed its first space probe on the moon with Surveyor 1’s landing in the Ocean of Storms region. The probe was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida 63 hours before it landed on the moon. In Depth: Surveyor 1 In January 1961, NASA selected Hughes Aircraft…
June 2, 2023
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Indian Citizenship Act

June 2, 1924: Congress passed the Indian Citizenship Act to grant citizenship to all Native Americans born in the United States. The law, however, did not grant the right to vote, which wouldn’t change until 1957. Today in History – June 2 Indian Citizenship Act On June 2, 1924, Congress…
June 2, 2023
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President Grover Cleveland marries at the White House

June 2, 1886: President Grover Cleveland became the first President to get married at the White House when he married Frances Folsom. His bride was only 21 years old at the time and became the youngest First Lady. Before his marriage, the bachelor president’s sister served in the role of…
June 2, 2023
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Captain James Lawrence’s final command

June 1, 1813: During the War of 1812, Navy Captain James Lawrence was fatally wounded, and he uttered his final command, “Don’t give up the ship.” The phrase was cemented in history when his friend Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry had it sewn onto a flag which he flew above his…
June 1, 2023
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Kentucky admitted to the Union as the 15th state

June 1, 1792: Kentucky became the first state admitted to the Union west of the Appalachian Mountains. It had temporarily been considered a Virginia county but was eventually granted statehood. Many settlers arrived in the area by route of the Wilderness Road through the Cumberland Gap. Wilderness Road to…
June 1, 2023
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First law passed by the United States Congress

June 1, 1789: The first law passed by the U.S. Congress after the ratification of the Constitution was “An Act to regulate the Time and Manner of administering certain Oaths,” which President George Washington signed into law. The law established an oath of office for members of Congress and other…
June 1, 2023
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Great Flood of 1889

May 31, 1889: The most destructive flood of the nineteenth century was the Johnstown Flood, also known as the Great Flood of 1889. Fourteen miles upstream of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, the South Fork Dam failed, resulting in catastrophic flooding, millions of dollars in damage, and the death of 2,208 people.  The…
May 31, 2023
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Walt Whitman born on Long Island

May 31, 1819: American poet Walt Whitman was born on Long Island and grew up in Brooklyn in the early nineteenth century. Despite having various occupations throughout his life, he found success and fame with his self-published book of poetry, Leaves of Grass, in 1855. Walph Raldo Emerson claimed that…
May 31, 2023
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First U.S. Copyright Law Enacted

May 31, 1790: Under the new constitution, the United States Congress enacted its first copyright law protecting books, maps, and charts for fourteen years, which could then be renewed for fourteen more. This copyright law was based on the British Statute of Anne, but it would be revised continuously to…
May 31, 2023
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Jackson-Dickinson duel

May 30, 1806: Andrew Jackson shot and killed Charles Dickinson in a duel in Adairville, Kentucky. Dickinson was an attorney from Nashville who made derogatory remarks about Jackson’s wife, Rachel and accused the future president of cheating on horse betting. The pair met to duel on the Jeff Burr Farm.
May 30, 2023
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Rhode Island becomes last of original 13 colonies ratifying US Constitution

May 29, 1790: The process of ratifying the U.S. Constitution by the states took some time. It wasn’t until May 29, 1790, that Rhode Island became the last state to ratify it. The first state to ratify was Delaware on December 7, 1787, followed by Pennsylvania on December 12, 1787.
May 29, 2023
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President Andrew Jackson signs the Indian Removal Act

May 28, 1830: The Indian Removal Act was a key law leading to the forced removal of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, and Seminole tribes out of Georgia and surrounding states, setting the stage for the Cherokee Trail of Tears. Indian Removal Act: Primary Documents in American History This…
May 28, 2023
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American petrochemical corporation South Penn Oil Co. was founded in Pennsylvania.

May 27,  1889: South Penn Oil Co, later called Pennzoil Company became an important producer of crude oil and natural gas. Pennzoil’s advancement and prosperity are credited to its inventive approaches to marketing, as well as its substantial brand recognition and influence. Pennzoil Company Written and fact-checked by The Editors…
May 27, 2023
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John Wayne born in Iowa

May 26, 1907: Born Marion Robert Morrison in Winterset, Iowa, iconic American actor and real-life cowboy didn’t take on his new name, John Wayne, until 1930 during his first big movie role. John Wayne, “The Duke,” was a beloved American actor known for his Western roles and patriotism. JOHN…
May 26, 2023
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Constitutional Convention begins in Philadelphia

May 25, 1787: Delegates arrived in Philadelphia to meet in the old state house (now called Independence Hall) with the original goal of revising the Articles of Confederation. Under the influence of James Madison and Alexander Hamilton, the group began to lay the framework for an entirely new system of…
May 25, 2023
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Samuel Morse sends first telegraph message

May 24, 1844: Samuel F.B. Morse sent the first telegraphic message over an experimental line from Washington, D.C., to Baltimore. The message “What Hath God Wrought?” was taken from the Bible as suggested by a young girl named Annie Ellsworth, the daughter of Morse’s close friend.  What Hath God…
May 24, 2023
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American Jazz Singer and Actress Rosemary Clooney born

May 23, 1928: Rosemary Clooney was born in Maysville, Kentucky. Later she moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, to live with her grandfather, where she began her singing career on the local radio station. She found success after moving to New York City and signing with Columbia Records. Notable facts about Clooney…
May 23, 2023
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America’s first First Lady, Martha Washington, passes away

May 22, 1802: Martha Washington, wife of President George Washington and the first First Lady of the United States, passed away at age 70 at her home in Mount Vernon. U.S. Presidential History: May May 22 1802Martha Washington, the United States’ first First Lady, dies on this day at…
May 22, 2023
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American Red Cross was founded

May 21, 1881: The American Red Cross was founded by Clara Barton and Adolphus Solomons as a humanitarian organization with the aim of providing relief to those in need. This non-profit organization has played a significant role in responding to disasters, offering support to military personnel and their families, and…
May 21, 2023
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Blue Jeans are Patented by Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis

May 20, 1873: The granting of a patent to Levi Strauss, a businessman from San Francisco, and Jacob Davis, a tailor from Reno, Nevada, was the birth of the renowned clothing item: blue jeans. These innovative work pants were strengthened with metal rivets, and they would go on to become…
May 20, 2023
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Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’s death

May 19, 1994: First Lady Jackie Kennedy passed away leaving a legacy of American class and culture. Notably married to JFK and widowed after his assassination, Jackie Kennedy went on to marry Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. After being twice widowed, she began a successful career in publishing. She will…
May 19, 2023
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Battle of Vicksburg begins

May 18, 1863: The Battle of Vicksburg during the American Civil War was a turning point due to the major significance of control of the Mississippi River. When the Union Army eventually won the battle on July 4, 1863, the South was cleaved in half with Union control of the…
May 18, 2023
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The Wonderful Wizard of Oz published

May 17, 1900: American Author L. Frank Baum published his most famous children’s book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The book was so successful that it became a musical in 1902. Baum went on to write a whole Oz series with 13 more books. The Wizard of Oz is regarded…
May 17, 2023
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Top Gun premieres

May 16, 1986: Iconic Hollywood classic ‘Top Gun’ premiered across the United States, where it instantly captured American audiences’ attention. The film was an immediate success, becoming the top-earning movie of 1986. It continued with a successful IMAX release in 2013 and its re-release in 2021 in anticipation of Top…
May 16, 2023
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American Poet Emily Dickinson dies in Massachusetts 

May 15, 1886: American poet and literary icon, Emily Dickinson, died in her hometown of Amherst, Massachusetts. After her death, her family found her collection of hand-sewn poetry booklets and proceeded to publish her entire collection posthumously. Her world-renowned collection makes Dickinson synonymous with American Literature.
May 15, 2023
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1st passenger flight in an airplane

May 14, 1908: Charlie Furnas, the world's first airline passenger, had the privilege of flying with both Wilbur and Orville Wright at Kitty Hawk, NC. After a short hop with Wilbur earlier in the day, Furnas then embarked on another flight, this time accompanied by Orville. They covered an impressive…
May 14, 2023
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 3 astronauts simultaneously walked in space for the 1st time

May 13, 1992: This significant event occurred when three astronauts ventured outside the spacecraft into space, marking the longest spacewalk ever carried out by American astronauts. Their successful completion of this mission helped to pave the way for future spacewalks and advancements in space exploration.
May 13, 2023
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U.S. Senate votes for war against Mexico

May 12, 1846: After President James K. Polk accused Mexican forces of attacking Americans on U.S. soil. The Senate voted 40-2 to go to war against Mexico. The result of the Mexican-American war led to the U.S. annexation of land stretching from present-day California to New Mexico.
May 12, 2023
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Amerigo Vespucci sets sail

May 10, 1497: Amerigo Vespucci set sail on his first exploratory voyage in search of the New World. Although most people think of Christopher Columbus from this period of discovery, America was named after Amerigo Vespucci in 1507.
May 10, 2023
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President Wilson issues Mother’s Day declaration

May 9, 1914: President Woodrow Wilson asked all Americans to join him in celebrating Mother’s Day as a way to honor motherhood. To make it extra special, they started giving out carnations at the first-ever celebration, and now it’s become a tradition. Celebrating Mothers President Woodrow Wilson issued a…
May 9, 2023
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Battle of Palo Alto

May 8, 1846: The Battle of Palo Alto occurred during the Mexican-American War, near the Rio Grande in Texas. The battle was fought between the United States Army (under Zachary Taylor) and the Mexican Army, resulting in a victory for the US, despite being outnumbered. The battle was significant in…
May 8, 2023
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First US Presidential Inaugural Ball

May 7, 1789: George Washington’s first inaugural address, spanning 1,419 words, was delivered in the Senate chamber. Notably, there were no inaugural balls on the day of the ceremony; however, a ball was held in New York City a week later, on May 7, in honor of the first President. …
May 7, 2023
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Steve Jobs introduced Apple’s first iMac

May 6, 1998:  Steve Jobs proved his critics wrong and restored Apple’s status as a tech icon when he introduced the iMac on May 6, 1998. The iMac’s innovative, translucent design was a stark departure from the black or beige boxes that dominated the PC industry, and its popularity helped…
May 6, 2023
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Carnegie Hall opens

May 5, 1891: Carnegie Hall, originally named Music Hall, opened to the public in New York City. Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky led the first performance as a guest conductor. Five Facts About Opening Night How much do you know about Carnegie Hall’s original Opening Night in 1891? Here are five…
May 5, 2023
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Al Capone begins prison sentence

May 4, 1932: Al Capone, a.k.a. Scarface, began his prison sentence as an inmate of Atlanta Federal Penitentiary. Capone was sentenced to 11 years for tax evasion and was later transferred to Alcatraz. The Al Capone Trial: A Chronology by Daniel M. Porazzo January 17, 1899Alphone Capone is born…
May 4, 2023
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Pulitzer Prize for Gone with the Wind

May 3, 1937: Margaret Mitchell wins a Pulitzer Prize for her novel Gone with the Wind, two years before it was adapted into the world-famous movie. On this day in history, May 3, 1937, Margaret Mitchell’s Civil War saga ‘Gone with the Wind’ wins Pulitzer Bestselling epic of love…
May 3, 2023
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Lou Gehrig’s 2,130-game streak ended

May 2, 1939: New York Yankee great Lou Gehrig, the “Iron Horse” of American baseball, ended his streak of consecutive games played (2,130), setting a record that stood until 1995, when it was broken by Cal Ripken, Jr. May 2, 1939: Lou Gehrig’s streak ends in Detroit This article…
May 2, 2023
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Battle of Crooked Billet Begins

May 1, 1778: Near the Crooked Billet Tavern (present-day Hatboro, Pennsylvania), the Battle of Crooked Billet began. British forces launched a surprise attack on Pennsylvania militia regiments. The militia was caught sleeping, literally, and suffered greatly before retreating. The Battle of Crooked Billet May 1, 1778 at Crooked Billet…
May 1, 2023
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Transcontinental Railroad completed

May 10, 1869: The transcontinental railroad was completed when the Union Pacific and Central Pacific met in Promontory, Utah. The presidents of each company together drove the final spike that connected the two rail lines and thus connected the country. The period following was a time of rapid expansion for…
May 10, 2023
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President Rutherford B. Hayes installs first White House telephone

May 10, 1877: President Rutherford B. Hayes moved to embrace new technology by having the first telephone installed in the White House. The phone was placed in the telegraph room but reportedly the president didn’t use it often. The White House phone number was ‘1’.
May 10, 2023
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Minnesota joins the Union

May 11, 1858: Minnesota became the 32nd state to enter the union. The “Land of 10,000 Lakes” gained a growing population during western expansion, and in 1849 it was recognized as a U.S. territory. The development of canals and railroads contributed to its population boom in the 1850’s and paved…
May 11, 2023
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Glacier National Park established

May 11, 1910: President William Taft signed the bill that established Glacier National Park. The 1 million-acre park became the country’s 10th national park. Located in Montana, it features glacier-carved peaks and valleys, pristine lakes and streams, and dense forests, perfect for hiking, camping, and exploring American nature at its…
May 11, 2023
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“Black Blizzard” Dust Storm sweeps over the U.S.

May 11, 1934: A massive dust storm dubbed the “Black Blizzard” blew eastward across the continental United States. The storm moved millions of pounds of dirt and dust from farmland to the eastern seaboard, catching the attention of Washington, D.C. politicians to plights of American farmers.
May 11, 2023