James Cook Establishes New South Wales
On August 21, 1770, James Cook landed on the eastern coast of Australia and named the land New South Wales.
This Day in History
Lou Gehrig Hits Record 23rd Grand Slam
Stepping up to bat in the first inning with the bases loaded, Lou Gehrig hit the 23rd grand slam of his career on August 20, 1938.
Start of Transatlantic Cable Service
On August 16, 1858, the first message was sent via the transatlantic cable. The message read, “Europe and America are united by telegraphy. Glory to God in the highest; on earth, peace and good will towards men.”
President Truman Announces Japan’s Surrender
After nearly six years of a world at war, the Japanese surrendered on August 14, 1945, effectively ending World War II.
Death of James Russell Lowell
Poet, critic, and diplomat James R. Lowell died on August 12, 1891. He spent his last years giving speeches and collecting his works in volumes.
Babe Ruth Becomes First Player to Hit 500 Home Runs
Hitting the first pitch he saw, Babe Ruth made history on August 11, 1929, becoming the first player in Major League Baseball history to hit 500 home runs.
Missouri Becomes 24th State
On August 10, 1821, President James Monroe signed legislation adding Missouri to the Union as our 24th state. When the U.S. took ownership of Missouri, most of the land had already been explored. Many communities had already been founded, and farming and mineral industries had been developed. Missouri was made a part of Upper Louisiana; then, in 1812, the Missouri Territory was organized.
Betty Boop Makes Cartoon Debut
On August 9, 1930, Betty Boop made her first cartoon appearance in Fleischer Studios’ Dizzy Dishes. The last Betty cartoon was released in 1939, but since then, she’s enjoyed several “comebacks” and appearances in such hit movies as Who Framed Roger Rabbit.
Peace Bridge Dedicated
On August 7, 1927, the Peace Bridge linking the U.S. and Canada was dedicated by representatives from both nations and the United Kingdom.