On This Day - August 05
Image source: The GrayVine
Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Let’s look back at some of the most significant moments in American history that happened on this day, starting with…
1858: First Transatlantic Cable Landed
The US and Britain were connected by wire for the first time when a telegraph cable reached Newfoundland. It failed after three weeks—but marked a giant leap for global communication.
1861: Lincoln Signed the First Income Tax
To fund the Civil War, President Lincoln approved a 3% tax on incomes over $800—the beginning of federal income tax in the US
1864: Union Forces Took Mobile Bay
Admiral David Farragut charged through Confederate defenses in Alabama, yelling, “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!”—a bold move that helped tighten the Union blockade.
1914: America’s First Traffic Light Was Installed
Cleveland, Ohio, debuted the nation’s first electric traffic signal at a busy intersection—ushering in a new era of road safety.
1921: First Baseball Game Aired on Radio
KDKA Pittsburgh made broadcast history when the Pirates beat the Phillies 8–0—with Harold Arlin calling every pitch.
1936: Jesse Owens Took Gold Again
At the Berlin Olympics, Jesse Owens won his third gold—dominating the 200m in record time and defying Nazi ideology on the world stage.
1962: Nelson Mandela Was Arrested
His arrest in apartheid-era South Africa resonated far beyond its borders, sparking outrage and inspiring US civil rights leaders.
1981: Reagan Fired Striking Air Controllers
When more than 11,000 air traffic controllers defied a back-to-work order, Reagan dismissed them—shifting the balance in American labor relations.
Do you remember any of these events? Or do you have more events (historical or not!) you'd like to share with the community? Post them below and let's reminisce together!
