Operation Cornflakes
On February 5, 1945, the US began a secret operation to overthrow Hitler with postage stamps.
World War II
Birth of Clark Gable
Actor William Clark Gable was born on February 1, 1901, in Cadiz, Ohio. Appearing in over 60 films during his 37-year career, he was known as “The King of Hollywood.”
Liberation of Auschwitz
On January 27, 1945, Soviet troops liberated the Auschwitz concentration camp, marking the beginning of the end of the Holocaust. The United Nations later designated this date International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
The Élysée Treaty
On January 22, 1963, France and West Germany signed the Élysée Treaty, ending centuries of rivalries between the two nations. In 1988, both countries collaborated on joint-issue stamps marking the treaty’s 25th anniversary.
Death of Hollywood Icon Audrey Hepburn
Beloved actress and goodwill ambassador Audrey Hepburn died at her home in Switzerland on January 20, 1993
Birth of Richard Nixon
America’s 37th president, Richard Milhous Nixon was born into a poor Quaker family in Yorba Linda, California, on January 9, 1913. Largely remembered for the Watergate scandal and his resignation, he was considered an effective leader by many prior to his fall from grace.
New Mexico Admitted as 47th State
On January 6, 1912, New Mexico became the 47th state admitted to the Union.
Marshall Plan Comes to an End
On December 31, 1951, the Marshall Plan expired after providing aid to millions of people in Western Europe. The Plan was seen as a way to contain the spread of communism and increase US exports.
Birth of John von Neumann
Mathematician and scientist John von Neumann was born on December 28, 1903, in Budapest, Hungary.