Christopher Columbus Makes Landfall
After more than two months at sea, Christopher Columbus reached what he believed was East Asia on October 12, 1492.
This Day in History
Birth of Music Legend John Lennon
On October 9, 1940, one of the world’s most celebrated songwriters and performers was born – John Lennon.
Harrison Wins Important Victory at Battle of the Thames
On October 5, 1813, future President William Henry Harrison won the Battle of the Thames, securing American control of the Northwest frontier for the remainder of the War of 1812.
Work Begins on Mount Rushmore
On October 4, 1927, Gutzon Borglum began sculpting Mount Rushmore in South Dakota’s Black Hills.
Redwood National Park Established
On October 2, 1968, Lyndon B. Johnson signed legislation establishing Redwood National Park.
Mexico Gains Independence from Spain
After more than a decade of fighting and over 20,000 casualties, Mexico officially gained its independence from Spain on September 27, 1821.
The Little Rock Nine Enter High School Under Federal Protection
After being initially denied entrance to their school, the Little Rock Nine were escorted in by federal troops on September 25, 1957.
Devils Tower Becomes First American National Monument
On September 24, 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt declared Devils Tower in Wyoming to be the first National Monument under the Antiquities Act.
John Paul Jones Captures British Vessels
During a naval battle with the British, John Paul Jones refused to surrender and won an impressive victory on September 23, 1779.