Historical Events tagged with "lyndon b johnson"

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

Publication of the Pentagon Papers Begins

June 13th, 1971 53 years ago

The New York Times started publishing excerpts from the Pentagon Papers, a classified document detailing the U.S. government's political and military involvement in Vietnam since World War II. This controversial release raised questions about U.S. foreign policy and transparency, revealing stark contrasts between public statements and internal assessments. The documents showed the U.S. government had altered information about military measures and outcomes, igniting public outrage against the Vietnam War. The publication challenged notions of government accountability and press freedom.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Thurgood Marshall Joins Supreme Court

October 2nd, 1967 57 years ago

Thurgood Marshall was sworn in as the first African-American justice of the United States Supreme Court. This significant event took place at the Supreme Court in Washington, D.C. on October 2, 1967. His appointment represented a major milestone in the fight for civil rights and equality, showcasing progress in the representation of African Americans in high-level government positions. Marshall had previously made history as a civil rights lawyer, arguing landmark cases including Brown v. Board of Education, which helped to dismantle segregation in schools.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Lyndon B. Johnson Advocates for Gun Control

September 15th, 1966 58 years ago

Lyndon B. Johnson, the U.S. President, wrote a letter to Congress urging for the enactment of gun control legislation in response to a sniper attack at the University of Texas at Austin. This attack, carried out by Charles Whitman, resulted in significant casualties, including the deaths of 16 individuals and injuries to many others. The bold call for action from Johnson emphasized the need for legislative changes to address the growing issues of gun violence in America.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

US Troops Land in Dominican Republic

April 28th, 1965 59 years ago

American troops landed in the Dominican Republic in 1965 to prevent the establishment of what the U.S. government feared could be a Communist dictatorship following a coup. The operation aimed to stabilize the politically volatile situation and protect American citizens living in the country. This intervention involved around 42,000 U.S. military personnel and was prompted by growing unrest and the threat of a leftist regime taking over.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Lyndon B. Johnson's Presidential Election Victory

November 3rd, 1964 60 years ago

Lyndon B. Johnson was elected to a full term as President of the United States, achieving a remarkable 61% of the popular vote and winning 44 out of 50 states. This election was particularly notable as it marked the first time residents of Washington D.C. were able to vote in a presidential election, with the majority favoring Johnson. The election showcased Johnson's strong support and set the stage for his Great Society programs.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Lyndon B. Johnson Announces Great Society Program

May 22nd, 1964 60 years ago

In 1964, U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson formally unveiled his Great Society program during a speech before Congress. This ambitious initiative aimed to eliminate poverty and racial injustice while promoting education and public health. Notable legislation like Medicare and the Voting Rights Act emerged from this program. The event represented a significant expansion of government responsibility in American life, reflecting Johnson's commitment to progressive reforms and equality.

Continue Reading