Birth of Alfred E. Smith
Alfred Emanuel Smith was born on December 30, 1873, in New York City, New York. Smith was a major figure in New York politics, serving as the state’s governor for eight years.
Government
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Federal Reserve Established
On December 23, 1913, President Woodrow Wilson signed the Federal Reserve Act, establishing America’s current central banking system. Commonly known as the “Fed,” this independent governmental agency manages the country’s supply of money and credit.
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New Jersey Becomes 3rd State
On December 18, 1787, New Jersey became the third state to ratify the Constitution and join the Union.
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Death of Lakota Leader Sitting Bull
On December 15, 1890, Indian agency police on the Standing Rock Reservation killed Sitting Bull. A respected Lakota leader, he had a major influence on the Battle of Little Big Horn and was later part of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show.
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Indiana Becomes 19th U.S. State
On December 11, 1816, Indiana was admitted to the Union. While the young state initially struggled, it eventually grew to become the nation’s 17th most populous state!
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Wyoming Grants Women’s Suffrage
On December 10, 1869, the Wyoming territory became the first government in the US to grant women the right to vote. This is one of several event’s in Wyoming’s history that earned it the nickname, “The Equality State.”
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Happy Birthday Martin Van Buren
Martin Van Buren was born on December 5, 1782, in Kinderhook, New York. As America’s eighth president, his term in office was plagued with economic and foreign struggles, but he’s historians consider him fundamental in the development of America’s political system.
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First Air Force One Christened
On November 24, 1954, First Lady Mamie Eisenhower christened the first plane to be designated Air Force One.
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Founding of the American Turners
On November 21, 1848, the first American Turners gymnastic union was established in Cincinnati, Ohio. Still in existence today, the Turners were honored with a stamp marking their 100th anniversary in 1948.
