Author Ursula Kroeber Le Guin was born on October 21, 1929, in Berkeley, California. A pioneer in American science fiction writing, she won numerous distinguished awards for her novels, short stories, and teen and children’s books.
Mickey Charles Mantle was born on October 20, 1931, in Spavinaw, Oklahoma. Considered the best switch hitter in history, he was a Triple Crown winner, won seven World Series, and was a three-time MVP.
On October 19, 1960, President Dwight D. Eisenhower established the first embargo on Cuba. It banned most US exports to Cuba, including postage stamps!
On October 18, 1867, Alaska became part of America in a move dubbed “Seward’s Folly.”
On October 17, 1916, the US Post Office issued a 5¢ Washington stamp. The stamp had small changes from previous issues that went overlooked by collectors, so few were saved. Plus, this stamp spawned some famous errors…
On October 16, 1934, Franklin D. Roosevelt established the Section of Panting and Sculpture (later known as the Section of Fine Arts). The Section, as it was called, invited artists across the country to beautify public buildings, including many post offices.
On October 15, 1966, President Lyndon Johnson signed legislation establishing the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on the shore of Lake Superior. It was the first national lakeshore in the United States.
On October 13, 1775, the Second Continental Congress authorized the creation of a Navy. The Continental Navy contributed to the American victory in the Revolutionary War, but was disbanded after the conflict ended.
On October 11, 1779, Polish General Casimir Pulaski died fighting in the American Revolution. During his two years fighting for the American cause, he earned the respect and admiration of men on both sides of the conflict.