North and South Dakota Admitted to the Union
On November 2, 1889, North and South Dakota became our 39th and 40th states.
This Day in History
Opening of Mackinac Bridge
On November 1, 1957, the Mackinac Bridge opened. It was the largest suspension bridge in the world at the time.
Nevada Becomes 36th State
On October 31, 1864, Abraham Lincoln admitted Nevada to the Union to aid in the Civil War.
Death of Henry Knox
On October 25, 1806, Henry Knox died near Thomaston, Massachusetts (present-day Maine).
Battle of Leyte Gulf
On October 23, 1944, the Allies launched the Battle of Leyte Gulf in the Pacific.
Edison’s First Successful Test of Electric Light Bulb
On October 22, 1879, Thomas Edison staged his first successful test of an electric light bulb with a carbon filament.
Dedication of World’s Columbian Exposition
On October 21, 1892, Chicago held the dedication ceremony for the World’s Columbian Exposition, which officially opened to the public the following May.
Death of Herbert Hoover
On October 20, 1964, America’s 31st president, Herbert Hoover died.
U.S. Takes Possession of Puerto Rico
On October 18, 1898, U.S. troops raised the American flag over Puerto Rico, marking the start of US possession of the island.