Battle of Leyte Gulf
On October 23, 1944, the Allies launched the Battle of Leyte Gulf in the Pacific.
Navy
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.
Bobby Kennedy Assassinated
Robert F. (Bobby) Kennedy was shot by an assassin on June 5, 1968, and died from his wounds early the next day.
Rhode Island Becomes 13th State
Read more
Sinking of the Lusitania
On May 7, 1915, a German U-boat torpedoed and sunk the Lusitania.
Battle of the Coral Sea Begins
On May 4, 1942, the World War II Battle of the Coral Sea began. It was the first fight between aircraft carriers; in fact, the ships weren’t even in sight of each other.
Commodore Perry Opens Trade with Japan
On March 31, 1854, Commodore Matthew Perry signed a peace and trade agreement with Japan. On March 31, 1933, President Franklin Roosevelt established the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) to decrease unemployment in America.
U.S. Coast Guard Established
On January 28, 1915, the Revenue Cutter Service and United States Life-Saving Service were merged to form the US Coast Guard.
John Paul Jones Captures British Vessels
During a naval battle with the British, John Paul Jones refused to surrender and won an impressive victory on September 23, 1779.