Historical Events tagged with "American history"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Arts & Culture

Establishment of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting

November 7th, 1967 57 years ago

Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Public Broadcasting Act, establishing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) in Washington, D.C. This act aimed to enhance non-commercial broadcasting in America and provide federal funding for public television and radio stations. With this legislation, Johnson emphasized the importance of public media in promoting education and cultural understanding. The signing ceremony included prominent officials and laid the groundwork for the development of educational content and diverse programming, marking a pivotal moment in U.S. media history.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Collective Bargaining Agreement with U.S. Steel Signed

March 2nd, 1937 88 years ago

The Steel Workers Organizing Committee, representing steel workers, successfully signed a collective bargaining agreement with U.S. Steel. This landmark agreement marked a pivotal moment in labor relations, establishing essential rights for workers in the steel industry and leading to greater union organization across the sector. The agreement was visible in the changing landscape of labor rights in America.

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Sports & Recreation

Johnson knocks out Jeffries, riots erupt nationwide

July 4th, 1910 114 years ago

After Jack Johnson, an African-American boxer, knocked out white champion Jim Jeffries in the 15th round of their highly publicized fight, riots erupted in multiple cities across the United States. The bout, held in Reno, Nevada, was viewed as a significant racial clash, sparking anger among white spectators and celebrations within the African-American community. Violence broke out, leading to the tragic loss of lives and injuries to many more, as the boxing match ignited underlying racial tensions in the nation.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Andrew Johnson Frees Personal Slaves in Tennessee

August 8th, 1863 161 years ago

Andrew Johnson, the Military Governor of Tennessee, freed his personal slaves in Greeneville, Tennessee, despite their exemption from the Emancipation Proclamation. This act signified a personal commitment to emancipation and sparked broader discussions about slavery and freedom in the midst of the Civil War.

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Politics & Government

Delegates Create Confederate States in Montgomery

February 4th, 1861 164 years ago

Delegates from six southern states gathered in Montgomery, Alabama, to begin drafting the constitution for the Confederate States of America. The meeting was a pivotal moment in the secessionist movement, reflecting the growing divide between the North and South over issues such as slavery and states' rights. The attendees aimed to establish a new government separate from the United States, highlighting their commitment to preserving their social and economic order.

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Politics & Government

Georgia Joins Southern Secession Movement

January 19th, 1861 164 years ago

Georgia's legislature voted to secede from the Union, aligning with Southern states like South Carolina, Florida, Mississippi, and Alabama. This decision was driven by tensions over states' rights and slavery, as the state sought to join the Confederacy in the context of rising sectionalism. Georgia's action marked a pivotal moment in the build-up to the American Civil War, signaling growing Southern unity against perceived Northern aggression and decisions contrary to Southern interests.

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Crime & Law

Mormon Settlers Slaughter Emigrant Wagon Train

September 7th, 1857 167 years ago

A group of Mormon settlers ambushed and killed most members of a peaceful emigrant wagon train traveling through Utah territory. The incident involved a deliberate attack, resulting in the deaths of approximately 120 men, women, and children. Motivated by conflicts related to territorial control and rising tensions with outsiders, the slaughter aimed to protect their community from perceived threats. The remaining survivors were manipulated into silence, leading to decades of controversy surrounding the event.

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Religion & Philosophy

Joseph Smith Beaten and Tarred in Hiram

March 24th, 1832 193 years ago

A mob of men attacked Mormon leader Joseph Smith in Hiram, Ohio, administering a brutal punishment of beating, tar, and feathering. This severe assault arose from escalating tensions between Latter-day Saints and local residents. The act was symptomatic of the wider religious persecution faced by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the 1830s. Smith, known for his role in founding the church, was a polarizing figure and the target of the mob’s anger, reflecting the deep-seated conflicts surrounding religious practices during this period.

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Education & Academia

Establishment of the U.S. Military Academy

March 16th, 1802 223 years ago

The Army Corps of Engineers was established to oversee the founding and operation of the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. This initiative aimed to create a structured training facility for future army officers, emphasizing engineering and military sciences. The decision reflected a growing need for a formally educated officer corps as the nation expanded and faced various military challenges.

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