Allied Invasion of Italy
On September 3, 1943, the Allies launched their invasion of Italy during World War II. Part of Operation Husky, it ultimately led to the liberation of Rome in June 1944.
Franklin Roosevelt
First US Airmail Special Delivery Stamp
On August 30, 1934, the US Post Office issued its first Airmail Special Delivery stamp. Only in use for a short time, Airmail Special Delivery stamps paid the air postage and special delivery fee with a single stamp.
Potato Stamps
On August 24, 1935, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Potato Control Law, which led to the creation of short-lived Potato stamps.
Atlantic Charter
On August 14, 1941, Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill issued the Atlantic Charter, which defined their postwar goals for the world. The Atlantic Charter is credited as the inspiration for several international agreements that followed.
GI Bill
On June 22, 1944, President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act, also known as the GI Bill, into law.
Silver Tax Stamps
On June 19, 1934, Congress authorized the use of Silver Tax stamps. These stamps paid the tax on profits from the transfer of silver bullion as a result of the Silver Purchase Act of 1934.
Jefferson Counterfeits
On June 16, 1938, the post office issued a 3¢ Jefferson stamp, which was convincingly counterfeited. In fact, the counterfeits are more valuable than the genuine stamp, which rarely happens!
Formation of WAAC
On May 15, 1942, the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) was established. The women of the WAAC filled important noncombatant jobs, freeing up thousands of men for combat.
The Rural Electrification Administration
On May 11, 1935, President Franklin Roosevelt signed legislation establishing the Rural Electrification Administration (REA). The REA brought power to millions on remote farms.