On September 9, 1776, a pivotal moment in American history unfolded as the Second Continental Congress officially adopted the name “United States of America.” Previously known as the “United Colonies of North America,” this new title was more than just a rebranding—it became a lasting symbol of unity, freedom, and independence. The creation of the name marked the birth of a nation, one that would stand as a beacon of hope for countless generations.
Also on this date:
– 1850: California Joins the Union
California, with its vast landscapes and growing population, was officially admitted as the 31st state of the United States. This monumental event came during a period of expansion and transformation, with California quickly becoming a cornerstone of the nation’s growth due to its resources and strategic location.
– 1919: The Boston Police Strike
In a dramatic moment for labor rights, around 1,100 of Boston’s 1,500-member police force went on strike, protesting for better pay and working conditions. The strike, however, was swiftly broken by Massachusetts Governor Calvin Coolidge, who called in replacement officers. This decisive action bolstered Coolidge’s political standing, later propelling him to national prominence.
– 1948: Birth of North Korea
The People’s Democratic Republic of Korea, more commonly known as North Korea, was officially declared on this day, marking the division of the Korean Peninsula. The establishment of the regime under Kim Il-sung began a new chapter of geopolitical tensions that continue to shape the region and the world today.
– 1957: Althea Gibson’s Historic Win
Althea Gibson shattered racial barriers when she became the first Black athlete to win the U.S. National Championships, now known as the U.S. Open. Her victory was more than just a personal triumph; it signaled a breakthrough in the fight for racial equality in sports and paved the way for future generations of athletes.
– 1957: The Civil Rights Act is Signed
In a historic move, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the first civil rights legislation passed by Congress since Reconstruction. This groundbreaking bill focused on safeguarding voting rights and established the Civil Rights Division within the U.S. Department of Justice, laying the groundwork for future advancements in the struggle for equality.
– 1971: The Attica Prison Uprising
The maximum-security Attica Correctional Facility in New York was the site of one of the most significant prison uprisings in American history. Prisoners took 42 staff members hostage, demanding better living conditions and reforms in how inmates were treated. The event highlighted the deep-seated issues in the criminal justice system and sparked national discussions about prison reform.
– 2022: King Charles III’s First Address
Following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III gave his first official speech to the British public as their new monarch. In a solemn and historic moment, he vowed to uphold the legacy of his mother’s “lifelong service,” marking the beginning of a new era for the British monarchy.
Today in History: December 20
A Look Back At Today, December 20
The Louisiana Purchase was completed.
“It’s a Wonderful Life” premiered at the Globe Theater.
The United States launched Operation Just Cause.
The United States Space Force was established.
Today in History: December 19
Today in History: December 19
In 1777, General George Washington led an army of more than 12,000 soldiers to Valley Forge.
In 1972, Apollo 17 splashed down in the Pacific, concluding the Apollo program.
In 2011, North Korean announced the death of Kim Jong Il and proclaimed Kim Jong Un as the leader.
In 2022, the House Jan. 6 Committee urged the Justice Department to bring criminal charges against the previous president
Today in History: December 18
Today in History: December 18
In 1865, the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, abolishing slavery, was proclaimed in effect.
In 1892, Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s ballet “The Nutcracker” publicly premiered in St. Petersburg, Russia; although now considered a classic, it received a generally negative reception from critics.
In 1957, the Shippingport Atomic Power Station in Pennsylvania, the first nuclear facility to generate electricity in the United States, went on line. (It was taken out of service in 1982.)
In 2011, the last convoy of heavily armored U.S. troops left Iraq, crossing into Kuwait in darkness in the final moments of a nearly nine-year war.
Today in History: December 17
Today in History: December 17
In 1903 The Wright brothers’ flight redefined the possibilities of travel and opened the skies to human exploration.
In 1933 The first NFL championship laid the foundation for professional football’s evolution into a national pastime.
In 1989 “The Simpsons” redefined animated television, blending humor with social commentary to leave an indelible mark on entertainment.
In 1992 NAFTA reshaped North American trade, fostering economic ties while sparking debates on globalization.
In 2014 The U.S.-Cuba rapprochement signaled a pivotal moment in the post-Cold War world, rekindling hopes for reconciliation.
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