Martin Van Buren was born on December 5, 1782, in Kinderhook, New York. As America’s eighth president, his term in office was plagued with economic and foreign struggles, but he’s historians consider him fundamental in the development of America’s political system.
On December 4, 1674, Father Marquette erected the first building in what would later become Chicago. He spent the winter there while on an exploratory journey through the region.
On December 3, 1755, Gilbert Stuart was born in Saunderstown, Rhode Island Colony. A prolific American artist, he painted more than 1,000 people, including our first six presidents. Several of his portraits have appeared on US stamps – and even the $1 bill!
On December 2, 1823, President James Monroe introduced the foreign policy doctrine that bears his name. Known as the Monroe Doctrine, it has served as the cornerstone of America’s foreign policy ever since, invoked by several presidents over the years.
On December 1, 1913, Henry Ford introduced his moving assembly line, which revolutionized both his own business and the future of mass production around the world.
On November 30, 1835, Samuel Clemens (known by his pen name, Mark Twain) was born in Florida, Missouri. Regarded as the father of American literature and the country’s greatest humorist, he also wrote what many consider the Great American Novel, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
On November 29, 1929, Richard E. Byrd made his first flight over the South Pole. It was the first of five expeditions he made there during his life.
On November 28, 1895, the Chicago Times-Herald Race was held between six cars. It was America’s first automobile race.
On November 27, 1924, New York City hosted its first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Hailed as the world’s largest parade, the popular event boasts over 3.5 million spectators every year!