Hanging of Patriot Nathan Hale
After being discovered as an American spy behind enemy lines, Nathan Hale was hanged on September 22, 1776.
Army
Benedict Arnold Commits Treason
On September 21, 1780, American Revolutionary War General Benedict Arnold met with the British as part of a plan to hand over West Point – an act of treason.
Battle of Antietam
On September 17, 1862, Union and Confederate troops assembled at Antietam Creek for a 12-hour battle. By sunset, one in five men had become a casualty of the bloodiest one-day battle ever fought on American soil.
First Use of Tanks in World War I
On September 15, 1916, the first tanks were used in the World War I Battle of the Somme.
Siege of Fort Harrison Begins
On September 4, 1812, the Siege of Fort Harrison began. It would end 11 days later in the first American land victory of the War of 1812.
Germany Invades Poland
On September 1, 1939, Germany launched a land, sea, and air invasion of Poland, marking the start of World War II.
2nd Battle of Bull of Run
On August 28, 1862, Union and Confederate forces met a second time at Bull Run (also known as Manassas Junction) in a bloody three-day battle.
2nd Battle of Bull of Run
On August 28, 1862, Union and Confederate forces met a second time at Bull Run (also known as Manassas Junction) in a bloody three-day battle.
Battle of Brooklyn
The Continental and British Armies engaged in their first fight of the Revolutionary War on August 27, 1776. The Battle of Brooklyn (also known as the Battle of Long Island or the Battle of Brooklyn Heights) was the largest battle of the war.