Paine’s Common Sense Published
On January 10, 1776, Common Sense, a persuasive pamphlet encouraging Americans to declare independence from Great Britain, was published anonymously.
American History
Death of former President Harry Truman
On December 26, 1972, America’s 33rd president, Harry S. Truman, died.
Pennsylvania Becomes 2nd State
On December 12, 1787, Pennsylvania was the second state to ratify the Constitution and be admitted to the Union.
Mississippi Becomes 20th State
On December 10, 1817, Mississippi was admitted to the Union as the 20th state.
Delaware Becomes America’s First State
On December 7, 1787, Delaware was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, making it America’s first state.
Completion of Washington Monument
On December 6, 1884, the Washington Monument was completed, 36 years after its cornerstone was laid.
Birth of Bat Masterson
Lawman and gunfighter William Barclay “Bat” Masterson was born on November 26, 1853, in Quebec, Canada.
Battle of Tarawa Begins
On November 20, 1943, U.S. troops launched the Battle of Tarawa, the first American offensive in the central Pacific region of World War II.
Oklahoma Becomes 46th State
On November 16, 1907, Indian Territory and Oklahoma Territory were merged to create the state of Oklahoma.