History of the Boy Scouts
On January 24, 1908, Robert Baden-Powell published the first installment of Scouting for Boys, a pivotal event in the creation of the worldwide Boy Scouts organization.
This Day in History
Birth of Statesman John Hancock
John Hancock was born on January 23, 1737, in Braintree, Massachusetts. He was the longest-serving president of the Continental Congress, governor of Massachusetts, and famous signer of the Declaration of Independence.
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.
Birth of Explorer John C. Frémont
John C. Frémont was born on January 21, 1813 in Savannah, Georgia. An explorer and soldier, he developed the first scientific map of the American West and was known as “The Pathfinder.”
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 Renowned Writer Edgar Allan Poe
Edgar Allan Poe was born on January 19, 1809, in Boston, Massachusetts. He was one of the first Americans to make a living solely as a writer.
James Cook – First European to Visit Hawaii
On January 18, 1778, Captain James Cook became the first European to reach the Hawaiian islands. The Hawaiians believed Cook had divine powers and considered him a great chief.
Start of Operation Desert Storm
On January 17, 1991, the United States led coalition of 42 countries in Operation Desert Storm, the aerial bombardment of Iraq in the Gulf War. It was the largest air campaign since World War II.
Death of Admiral George Dewey
George Dewey, the only man to hold the rank of Admiral of the Navy, died on January 16, 1917. He was a hero of the Civil War and the Spanish-American War.