Booth’s Failed Kidnapping Attempt
On March 20, 1865, John Wilkes Booth set in motion a plan to kidnap President Abraham Lincoln. The attempt never happened—but its failure helped push Booth toward a far more deadly decision just weeks later.
American History
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Formation of Tuskegee Airmen
On March 19, 1941, the War Department ordered the creation of the 99th Pursuit Squadron, better known as the Tuskegee Airmen. What began as a reluctant experiment soon became one of the most disciplined and effective fighter programs of World War II.
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National Gallery of Art Opens
On March 17, 1941, Franklin D. Roosevelt presided over the opening of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. The museum, created from the art collection and generosity of financier Andrew Mellon, gave the United States a national gallery comparable to those long established in Europe.
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Freedom of Information Day
On March 16, 1986, Freedom of Information Day was established to celebrate the public’s right to access government records. The date was chosen to honor the birthday of James Madison, a key author of the Constitution who strongly believed that informed citizens are essential to a functioning democracy.
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Maine Admitted to the Union
On March 15, 1820, Maine became the 23rd state in the United States. The decision ended nearly two centuries of rule by Massachusetts and recognized the growing population and independence of the northern district.
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National K9 Veterans Day
On March 13, 1942, the US Army officially launched its War Dog Program, marking the beginning of organized military service for American dogs. Today, that date is remembered as National K9 Veterans Day, honoring the loyalty, courage, and sacrifice of the dogs that have served beside US troops.
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First US Paper Money
On March 10, 1862, the United States government issued its first widely circulated national paper money. These new notes, soon nicknamed “greenbacks,” were created during the financial strain of the American Civil War and transformed how the federal government financed itself.
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Court Issues Ruling in the Amistad Case
On March 9, 1841, the US Supreme Court issued its final ruling in the case of United States v. Schooner Amistad. The decision ended a two-year legal battle over whether a group of kidnapped Africans were property—or free people who had fought for their liberty.
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Death of William Howard Taft
William Howard Taft died on March 8, 1930, after nearly fifty years in public service. His passing marked the end of a career that uniquely bridged the presidency and the nation’s highest court.
