First International Postal Conference
On May 11, 1863, representatives from 15 nations met in Paris to discuss postal issues. That first International Postal Conference would eventually lead to the creation of the Universal Postal Union.
This Day in History
Centennial International Exhibition
On May 10, 1876, the first official World’s Fair in the United States was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The fair also commemorated the 100th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Philatelic Truck Begins its Journey
On May 9, 1939, the Philatelic Truck departed the White House on a cross-country journey to introduce thousands of Americans to the exciting world of stamps.
Taylor Wins the Battle of Palo Alto
On May 8, 1846, future President Zachary Taylor led US forces to their first major victory of the Mexican-American War at the Battle of Palo Alto.
Lincoln Made Honorary Citizen of San Marino
On May 7, 1861, President Abraham Lincoln accepted the “honor of citizenship” from San Marino. It was one of the earliest instances of US and San Marino relations, which wouldn’t be formally established for decades.
Birth of Rudolph Valentino
Silent film star Rudolph Valentino was born Rodolfo Pietro Filiberto Raffaello Guglielmi di Valentina d’Antonguolla on May 6, 1895, in Castellaneta, Italy. Idolized as the “Latin Lover” of the 1920s, Rudolph Valentino gained enormous fame for his passionate, romantic roles.
Birth of Eugenie Clark
Eugenie “Genie” Clark was born on May 4, 1922, in New York, New York. Nicknamed “The Shark Lady,” she was a world-renowned marine biologist best known for her work with sharks and trailblazing in the field of scuba diving for marine research.
“In Flanders Fields”
On May 3, 1915, Canadian physician John McCrae penned the poem, “In Flanders Fields,” in honor of a fallen fellow soldier following the Second Battle of Ypres. The poem became a rallying cry among Allied nations to continue fighting and support the war effort.
Stonewall Jackson Mortally Wounded
On May 2, 1863, Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson was mortally wounded at the battle of Chancellorsville. Regarded as a gifted tactical commander, his death was a major blow to the confederacy.