Colorado Admitted as 38th State
On August 1, 1876, President Ulysses S. Grant signed legislation admitting Colorado to the Union as the Centennial State (it was admitted 28 days after the 100th anniversary of the United States).
Government
“In God We Trust” Made Official U.S. Motto
Although it had appeared on American coins for 92 years, “In God We Trust” didn’t become America’s official motto until July 30, 1956.
The U.S. Annexes Hawaii
On July 7, 1898, President William McKinley signed legislation annexing Hawaii, paving the way for it to become a US state.
President Garfield Assassinated
On July 2, 1881, an assassin shot President James Garfield just four months into his presidency.
Signing of United Nations Charter
On June 26, 1945, 50 nations signed the United Nations Charter.
Virginia Becomes 10th State
On June 25, 1788, Virginia ratified the US Constitution and was admitted as the 10th state of the Union.
Department of Justice Established
On June 22, 1870, President Ulysses S. Grant signed a bill into law creating the U.S. Department of Justice.
West Virginia Becomes 35th State
On June 20, 1863, West Virginia joined the Union as the 35th state.
The First Juneteenth
On June 19, 1865, slaves in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom by the Emancipation Proclamation (issued two years prior). The day the last American slaves were freed has become a holiday celebrated officially in 45 states.