First White House Easter Egg Roll
On April 22, 1878, the White House hosted its first official Easter Egg Roll on Easter Monday. It’s a beloved tradition that has continued to this day.
Religion
Birth of Joseph Priestley
Joseph Priestley was born on March 24, 1733, in Birstall, West Riding of Yorkshire, United Kingdom. A noted scientist, he’s remembered for his work with electricity, oxygen, and carbonation.
Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom
On January 16, 1786, Virginia enacted Thomas Jefferson’s Statute for Religious Freedom. It was one of the most important laws ever passed by the Virginia Assembly, provided inspiration for the Bill of Rights, and was one of the achievements of which Jefferson was most proud.
Birth of John Greenleaf Whittier
Author and abolitionist John Greenleaf Whittier was born on December 17, 1807, at his family’s rural homestead in Haverhill, Massachusetts.
Happy Birthday Félix Varela
Félix Varela y Morales was born on November 20, 1788, in Havana, Cuba. A priest and teacher, he spent his life helping the poor and sick.
Happy Birthday Mahatma Gandhi
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, India. Gandhi is known worldwide for his peaceful protests and campaign that finally earned India its independence from British rule.
Death of Dante Alighieri
The “Supreme Poet” Dante Alighieri is believed to have died on September 14, 1321. His Divine Comedy is considered one of the most important poems of the Middle Ages and the Italian language.
Father Theodore Hesburgh
Reverend Theodore Martin Hesburgh was born on May 25, 1917, in Syracuse, New York. He served as president Notre Dame University for 35 years, transforming it into one of the best colleges in America.
“The Lady of the Cloud”
On December 30, 1696, it is said a miracle took place in Guápulo, Ecuador. That miracle was performed by the Virgin Mary (called the “Lady of the Cloud” by certain communities in Ecuador and Peru). The event became an important part of Guapulo’s culture.