Robert E. Lee Attempts to Resign
On August 8, 1863, Confederate General Robert E. Lee penned a letter to Jefferson Davis offering to resign in the wake of his loss at Gettysburg.
Civil War
U.S. Begins Issuing Stamps in Philippines
On June 30, 1899, the American military government issued its first stamps in the Philippines. Spanish colonization of the Philippines began in 1565 and continued for more than three centuries. In the late 1800s, the people of the Philippines revolted against the atrocities of their Spanish rulers. At the same time, unrest was growing in the Spanish colony of Cuba.
Custer’s Last Stand at the Battle of Little Bighorn
On June 25, 1876, Civil War hero George A. Custer died at the Battle of Little Bighorn.
Birth of Gwendolyn Brooks
Poet, author, and teacher Gwendolyn Brooks was born on June 7, 1917, in Topeka, Kansas.
Start of the Battle of Cold Harbor
On May 31, 1864, forces assembled in Virginia for the bloody Battle of Cold Harbor.
The Great Locomotive Chase
On April 12, 1862, a group of Union sympathizers stole a Confederate train, leading to a daring eight-hour chase.
Death of General Joseph E. Johnston
U.S. Army and Confederate General Joseph E. Johnson died on March 21, 1891.
Pennsylvania Becomes 2nd State
On December 12, 1787, Pennsylvania was the second state to ratify the Constitution and be admitted to the Union.
Mississippi Becomes 20th State
On December 10, 1817, Mississippi was admitted to the Union as the 20th state.