America Adopts National Anthem
On March 3, 1931, America officially adopted “The Star Spangled Banner” as its national anthem.
Famous Americans
Happy Birthday W.C. Fields
Comedian William Claude Dukenfield (better known as W. C. Fields) was born on January 29, 1880, in Darby, Pennsylvania.
Paine’s Common Sense Published
On January 10, 1776, Common Sense, a persuasive pamphlet encouraging Americans to declare independence from Great Britain, was published anonymously.
Birth of Bat Masterson
Lawman and gunfighter William Barclay “Bat” Masterson was born on November 26, 1853, in Quebec, Canada.
Death of Artist Winslow Homer
On September 29, 1910, one of America’s greatest painters, Winslow Homer died in Prouts Neck, Maine.
Happy Birthday F. Scott Fitzgerald
Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald was born on September 24, 1896, in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Lou Gehrig Hits Record 23rd Grand Slam
Stepping up to bat in the first inning with the bases loaded, Lou Gehrig hit the 23rd grand slam of his career on August 20, 1938.
Death of James Russell Lowell
Poet, critic, and diplomat James R. Lowell died on August 12, 1891. He spent his last years giving speeches and collecting his works in volumes.
Babe Ruth Becomes First Player to Hit 500 Home Runs
Hitting the first pitch he saw, Babe Ruth made history on August 11, 1929, becoming the first player in Major League Baseball history to hit 500 home runs.