Birth of Tennessee Williams
Thomas Lanier “Tennessee” Williams III was born on March 26, 1911, in Columbus, Mississippi. One of the most successful playwrights of the 20th century, several of his works were adapted into films.
Famous Americans
Birth of Flannery O’Connor
Mary Flannery O’Connor was born on March 25, 1925, in Savannah, Georgia. In a career cut short by disease, she produced two novels and more than 30 short stories that have led some to consider her one of the greatest short story writers of the 20th century.
Birth of Andrew Mellon
Andrew William Mellon was born on March 24, 1855, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As one of America’s longest-serving secretaries of state, he helped cut taxes and reduce the national debt following World War I.
Birth of John Bartram
Botanist John Bartram was born on March 23, 1699, in Darby, Pennsylvania Colony. Called the “greatest natural botanist in the world,” he started one of the first botanic gardens in the United States.
James Stewart Goes to War
On March 22, 1941, James Stewart was inducted into the US Army, making him the first major US movie star to don a military uniform during World War II.
Happy Birthday, Mr. Rogers
Fred McFeely Rogers was born on March 20, 1928, in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Hosting Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood for over 30 years, he helped transform children’s television.
Birth of William Jennings Bryan
William Jennings Bryan was born on March 19, 1860, in Salem, Illinois. Known as “The Great Commoner,” Jennings ran for president three times, but is remembered for his impassioned speeches on a variety of topics, including anti-trust, anti-imperialism, prohibition, populism, and trust-busting.
Birth of Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. was born on March 8, 1841, in Boston, Massachusetts. Known as “The Great Dissenter,” he is one of the best-known American judges, serving on the Supreme Court for 30 years.
Alexander Graham Bell Patents Telephone
On March 7, 1876, Alexander Graham Bell received the patent for the telephone. Three days later, Bell transmitted the first recognizable words over a telephone line.