The Élysée Treaty
On January 22, 1963, France and West Germany signed the Élysée Treaty, ending centuries of rivalries between the two nations. In 1988, both countries collaborated on joint-issue stamps marking the treaty’s 25th anniversary.
International History
James Cook – First European to Visit Hawaii
On January 18, 1778, Captain James Cook became the first European to reach the Hawaiian islands. The Hawaiians believed Cook had divine powers and considered him a great chief.
Start of Operation Desert Storm
On January 17, 1991, the United States led coalition of 42 countries in Operation Desert Storm, the aerial bombardment of Iraq in the Gulf War. It was the largest air campaign since World War II.
Marshall Plan Comes to an End
On December 31, 1951, the Marshall Plan expired after providing aid to millions of people in Western Europe. The Plan was seen as a way to contain the spread of communism and increase US exports.
Birth of Johannes Kepler
Johannes Kepler was born December 27, 1571 in Weil der Stadt, Germany. Kepler was one of the leading figures in an era that has been called the “Scientific Revolution.”
Word War I Christmas Truce
On December 24, 1914, soldiers from both sides engaged in a truce for the Christmas holiday. For a short time, German and British troops laid down their arms and became friends instead of enemies.
Death of Simón Bolivar
Military and political leader Simón Bolívar died on December 17, 1830, in Santa Marta, Gran Colombia. Freeing Venezuela from Spanish control, he became known as The Liberator and has also been called the “George Washington of South America.”
Armistice Ends World War I Fighting
On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month (November 11, 1918), the world’s warring nations agreed to cease fighting, bringing about the end of the Great War.
Grover Cleveland Dedicates Statue of Liberty
On October 28, 1886, the Statue of Liberty was dedicated in New York harbor. It’s stood as a symbol of the United States ever since and has been featured on dozens of stamps over the years.