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On January 10, 1776, Thomas Paine ignited revolutionary fervor, by anonymously publishing “Common
Sense,” a pamphlet that powerfully argued for American independence. Written in plain, persuasive language, it dismantled the legitimacy of British rule and monarchy while rallying colonial citizens toward self-governance. Within months, the pamphlet sold over 100,000 copies, influencing the Declaration of Independence. By capturing the spirit of liberty, *Common Sense* proved pivotal in transforming discontent into unified action, marking a cornerstone in the journey to American independence.
On this day in 1863, the London Underground made its historic debut with the opening of the Metropolitan Railway, the world’s first underground passenger line. Stretching between Paddington and Farringdon Street, the line provided a novel solution to London’s growing urban congestion. Operated with steam-powered trains, this groundbreaking achievement was not without challenges—early passengers endured smoke-filled tunnels—but it revolutionized urban transport and set the stage for modern subway systems worldwide.
This day in 1920 saw the establishment of the League of Nations, as the Treaty of Versailles officially
took effect. Created in the aftermath of World War I, the League represented the world’s first attempt at a global organization aimed at maintaining peace and preventing future conflicts. Despite its noble mission, the League faced challenges, including the absence of key powers like the United States, and its limited enforcement capabilities undermined its effectiveness. Nonetheless, its legacy informed the creation of the United Nations after World War II, advancing the dream of international cooperation.
In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt proposed the Lend-Lease Act to Congress, a bold plan to aid
Allied nations during World War II without directly involving the United States in combat. The program allowed the U.S. to supply Britain, and later other Allies, with vital military equipment and resources in exchange for future repayment or return. This strategic move not only bolstered Britain against Nazi Germany but also positioned America as a critical supporter of the Allied cause, paving the way for eventual U.S. entry into the war.