Historical Events tagged with "delaware"

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.

Politics & Government

Joe Biden's Virtual Acceptance Speech for Nomination

August 20th, 2020 4 years ago

Joe Biden delivered his acceptance speech for the Democratic presidential nomination virtually during the 2020 Democratic National Convention. The event was significant as it marked a historic moment, with Biden speaking from his home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized unity, hope, and healing for the American people while addressing urgent issues facing the nation including the economy, healthcare, and systemic racism. The convention itself featured performances, speeches from prominent Democrats, and was primarily held online, setting a new precedent for political gatherings.

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Science & Technology

Wallace H. Carothers Patents Nylon

February 16th, 1937 88 years ago

Wallace H. Carothers received a United States patent for nylon, marking a significant breakthrough in synthetic materials. This innovation, developed at DuPont, was crucial in revolutionizing various industries. Carothers' systematic approach in polymer chemistry led to the creation of this strong, flexible material, which quickly found applications in textiles and other products. The patent demonstrated the potential of polymers, showcasing the capabilities of American chemical research.

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Politics & Government

Delaware's Rejection of the Thirteenth Amendment

February 8th, 1865 160 years ago

Delaware declined to ratify the Thirteenth Amendment, delaying the formal criminalization of slavery until its nationwide adoption in December 1865. This decision effectively prolonged the existence of slavery in the state despite the growing movement to abolish it. Following the Federal government's push for emancipation and the progressive momentum building across the Union, Delaware’s choice highlighted the complexities surrounding the issue of slavery in border states. The state finally ratified the amendment on February 12, 1901, coinciding with the 92nd anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth.

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Politics & Government

Delaware Rejects Secession from the Union

January 3rd, 1861 164 years ago

The state of Delaware held a vote on whether to secede from the United States amid rising tensions before the American Civil War. Despite its geographic location and cultural ties to the South, Delaware's legislature ultimately voted against secession. The decision reflected a desire to remain part of the Union, highlighting the state's complex position between Northern and Southern ideologies.

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Politics & Government

Delaware Becomes First State to Ratify Constitution

December 7th, 1787 237 years ago

Delaware's ratification of the United States Constitution occurred on December 7, 1787, when a convention gathered in the state capital of Dover. Delegates, motivated by a desire for a stronger central government to address issues of interstate commerce, security, and the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, unanimously voted in favor of the proposed Constitution. This critical decision marked Delaware's position as the first state to ratify, igniting discussions and actions in other states toward ratification as well.

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Military & Warfare

First Battle Display of the American Flag

September 3rd, 1777 247 years ago

During the Battle of Cooch's Bridge, American forces first displayed the flag of the United States in battle. This occurred in a skirmish near Cooch's Bridge, Delaware, marking a symbolic use of the flag to unite and rally troops. As British forces approached, American troops, defending their territory, raised the flag as a symbol of their resistance and identity in the revolutionary struggle.

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Politics & Government

Delaware Votes to Separate from British Rule

June 15th, 1776 248 years ago

Delaware's legislative assembly met in June to deliberate its future under British rule. The assembly voted to suspend the government by the British Crown and sought separation from Pennsylvania. This decision arose from growing tensions and a desire for autonomy amid the revolutionary fervor sweeping through the American colonies. The assembly's actions were fueled by the desire to establish a distinct identity and government for Delaware.

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Military & Warfare

Kittanning Expedition in French and Indian War

September 8th, 1756 268 years ago

The Kittanning Expedition was a military operation during the French and Indian War, where British forces aimed to disrupt Native American raids on frontier settlements. Led by Colonel John Armstrong, they targeted the village of Kittanning in present-day Pennsylvania. The goal was to retaliate against the Delawares, who had been attacking British settlements. Armstrong's forces managed to surprise the village, leading to significant destruction and loss of life.

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Politics & Government

Walking Purchase Concludes in Pennsylvania

September 20th, 1737 287 years ago

The Walking Purchase concluded in Pennsylvania, resulting in the cession of 1.2 million acres of Lenape-Delaware tribal land. The controversial land acquisition stemmed from an 1686 agreement that allowed the Pennsylvania government to claim land as far as a man could walk in a day and a half. After a distance of 70 miles was mapped out, tensions escalated as the Lenape perceived this maneuver as deceitful.

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