Founding Fathers
Death of Statesman John Hancock
On October 8, 1793, statesman, merchant, accused smuggler, and patriot John Hancock died at his home in Boston, Massachusetts.
Birth of James Monroe
James Monroe was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia, on April 28, 1758, to successful Virginia plantation owners.
Happy Birthday Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743, in Shadwell, Colony of Virginia.
Happy Birthday, James Madison
James Madison was born on March 16, 1751, in Port Conway, Virginia. James was the oldest of 12 children.
John Marshall – Longest-serving Chief Justice
John Marshall began his 34-year career as chief justice of the Supreme Court on February 4, 1801.
Birth of Alexander Hamilton
Alexander Hamilton was born on January 11, 1755 (or 57 – the year is unknown), in Nevis in the British West Indies.
John Jay Becomes First Supreme Court Chief Justice
On October 19, 1789, John Jay was sworn in as America’s first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
Ben Franklin Appointed America’s First Postmaster General
On July 26, 1775, the Second Continental Congress established America’s first postal system and selected Benjamin Franklin as its first leader.