Civil War Battle for Harpers Ferry
On September 12, 1862, the Civil War Battle for Harpers Ferry began. Though the Confederate attack was successful, Robert E. Lee’s invasion of the North ultimately failed.
This Day in History
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Construction Begins on Blue Ridge Parkway
On September 11, 1935, workers broke ground on the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway near Cumberland Knob in North Carolina. Though it would take more than 50 years to complete, it’s been the most visited National Park Service site nearly every year since 1946, earning the nickname, “America’s Favorite Drive.”
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Death of Thomas Gallaudet
Pioneering American educator, Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, died on September 10, 1851, in Hartford, Connecticut. Best known for his groundbreaking work in the education of the deaf, his efforts in the early 19th century helped bring language, communication, and opportunity to people who had long been excluded from mainstream society. Gallaudet’s vision, determination, and compassion led to the founding of the first permanent school for the deaf in the United States and laid the foundation for modern deaf education.
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National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act
On September 9, 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. This act was a landmark piece of legislation that changed the way Americans thought about cars and driving.
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Formation of SEATO
On September 8, 1954, eight nations signed the Southeast Asia Collective Defense Treaty, or Manila Pact, creating the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO). The treaty’s main purpose was to create a collective defense system, so that if one member was attacked, the others would come to its aid.
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Birth of Buddy Holly
Buddy Holly was born Charles Hardin Holley on September 7, 1936, in Lubbock, Texas. Buddy Holly was one of the most important figures in the early history of rock and roll. Though his career lasted less than two years, his influence shaped the future of popular music and inspired countless musicians who followed him.
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Birth of Jane Addams
Social worker Jane Addams was born on September 6, 1860, in Cedarville, Illinois. She was the first American woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize and is often considered the founder of the profession of social work in America.
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World Bids Farewell to Mother Teresa
After decades of serving the poor in the harshest conditions, Mother Teresa passed away on September 5, 1997. Known for her work with the poor, the sick, and the dying, she devoted her life to those who were suffering. Her faith made her a global symbol of charity, and her legacy continues to inspire people of all faiths and backgrounds.
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Geronimo Surrenders – Ending Major Indian Wars
After nearly 30 years fighting the outsiders that invaded his home, Geronimo surrendered on September 4, 1886. His surrender marked the end of Apache resistance and the close of the so-called “Indian Wars.”
