Birth of Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. was born on March 8, 1841, in Boston, Massachusetts. Known as “The Great Dissenter,” he is one of the best-known American judges, serving on the Supreme Court for 30 years.
Government
Constitution Takes Effect
On March 4, 1789, the US Congress met for the first time under the terms of the recently ratified US Constitution. March 4th would remain a significant date for many years as it would be the last day of Congress’ two-year sessions and the day presidents were inaugurated.
Star Routes
On March 3, 1845, a congressional act established star routes. Businesses would carry mail under contract with the post office on these postal routes.
Grand Teton National Park Established
On February 26, 1929, President Calvin Coolidge signed legislation creating Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park.
Birth of John Foster Dulles
John Foster Dulles was born on February 25, 1888 in Washington, DC. Dulles helped draft the preamble of the United Nations Charter, worked with NATO, helped create SEATO, and was the 52nd US secretary of State.
Washington Establishes U.S. Post Office
On February 20, 1792, George Washington signed the Postal Service Act, creating the US Post Office.
Birth of Ronald Reagan
Ronald Wilson Reagan was born in Tampico, Illinois, on February 6, 1911. After a moderately successful acting career, he became America’s 40th president and is often considered an icon in the Republican Party.
Birth of Walter F. George
Politician Walter Franklin George was born on January 29, 1878, in Preston, Georgia. Representing Georgia in the US Senate for 35 years, he became one of the most powerful and respected men in Congress during his lifetime.
Paris Peace Accords
On January 27, 1973, the Paris Peace Accords ended US involvement in the Vietnam War. It marked the end of a decade of US presence in Vietnam, though the fighting would continue for two more years.