U.S. Takes Possession of Alaska
On October 18, 1867, Alaska became part of America in a move dubbed “Seward’s Folly.”
Statehood
New York Becomes 11th State to Join the Union
On July 26, 1788, New York ratified the US Constitution, becoming America’s 11th state. It has grown to be America’s fourth most populous state, with more than 20 million residents.
Northwest Ordinance Revolutionizes Addition of New States to the Union
The United States passed the Northwest Ordinance on July 13, 1787 to establish a set of steps all future states would have to follow. It was ground breaking at the time and led to the organized and rapid expansion of America.
Oregon Becomes 33rd State
On February 14, 1859, Oregon was admitted as the 33rd state in the Union.
Iowa Becomes a State
On December 28, 1846, Iowa was admitted as America’s 29th state.
Alabama Becomes 22nd State
On December 14, 1819, Alabama was admitted to the Union as the 22nd state.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
On December 11, 1789, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was established. It’s the oldest public university in the United States in terms of beginning instruction as a public school.
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
On December 2, 1980, President Jimmy Carter established Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in Alaska. Today the park is part of one of the world’s largest international protected areas.
Carolina and Charleston
On October 30, 1629, the Carolina Province was named, and plans were made for early settlement. That settlement would be delayed for many years, but the name was retained.