Birth of William Harnett
Artist William Michael Harnett was born on August 10, 1848, in Clonakilty, County, Cork, Ireland. Harnett was one of the most successful artists of his day, known for his amazingly realistic paintings.
Famous Americans
George Washington Creates Forerunner of Purple Heart
On August 7, 1782, George Washington ordered the creation of the Badge of Military Merit to be awarded for bravery in battle. The predecessor of the Purple Heart, it’s one of the oldest military awards worldwide that is open to all who are wounded in battle.
Chautauqua Institution
On August 6, 1974, the USPS issued the Chautauqua Institution stamp, the second in the Rural America series, honoring the organization’s centennial. Initially founded to train Sunday school teachers, “Chautauqua” became a term for commercial traveling companies who pitched tents and presented lecturers, orators, and performing artists to rural areas.
Birth of Louis Armstrong
Louis Daniel Armstrong was born on August 4, 1901, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Armstrong was one of the most influential jazz musicians in American history. His distinct gravelly voice, skill in improvising lyrics, and mastery of the trumpet helped make jazz music a popular art form.
Death of WWI Ace Eddie Rickenbacker
On July 23, 1973, Eddie Rickenbacker died in Züruch, Switzerland. As a World War I flying ace, he shot down 22 enemy planes and four balloons.
Birth of Edward Hopper
Realist painter Edward Hopper was born on July 22, 1882, in Upper Nyack, New York. Known for his paintings of American architecture, he was one of the most successful artists during the Depression.
First Women’s Rights Convention in the US
On July 19, 1848, the Women’s Rights Convention, also known as the Seneca Falls Convention, opened in New York. The convention’s attendants issued a declaration calling for equal rights, including the right to vote.
Happy Birthday, Hiram Bingham IV
American diplomat Hiram Bingham IV was born on July 17, 1903, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Over a short period during World War II, he helped more than 2,500 refugees escape France.
Birth of Buckminster Fuller
Richard Buckminster “Bucky” Fuller was born on July 12, 1895, in Milton, Massachusetts. Most famous for his geodetic dome designs, he held 25 US patents and received over 100 major awards.