On December 18, 1620, the famous Mayflower docks at what would become modern-day Plymouth, Massachusetts. The success in the establishment of Plymouth Colony has been remembered in the United States through the Thanksgiving holiday tradition of feasts of celebration shared with family and friends. The Mayflower‘s crew took the ship back to England on April […]
History
Today in History: Patrick Henry’s Famous "Liberty or Death" Speech
Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death! — Patrick Henry, Second Virginia Convention, March 23, 1775 These words were the […]
Today in History: The War of 1812 Begins
This day (June 18) in 1812 marks the beginning of the War of 1812 after the U.S., under the presidency of James Madison, declared war on Great Britain. There were three major reasons for this declaration: Britain’s economic blockade of France, the capturing of American seaman and forcing them to serve in the British Royal […]
American Civil War
April is a significant month in American history: The American Civil War began on April 12, 1861, and ended when Confederate General Lee surrendered to Union General Grant on April 9, 1865 (although the last shot was fired on June 22, 1865). To aid in your study of this pivotal war that defined our country, […]
Today in History: Slavery Is Officially Abolished in the US
The 13th Amendment On this day (December 18) in 1865, the 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution was officially adopted. This amendment states, “neither slavery nor involuntary servitude… shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.” It was former Confederate States of America member Alabama that ratified the amendment […]