On This Day - August 2
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…
1776: The Declaration of Independence Was Formally Signed
Fifty-six delegates from the 13 colonies officially signed the Declaration of Independence, affirming the United States' separation from British rule. Although July 4 marked its adoption, August 2 is widely recognized as the actual signing date by most signers.
1790: The First US Census Was Conducted
Authorized by the Constitution, the very first US census recorded a population of 3,929,214 people—including nearly 700,000 enslaved individuals—providing a snapshot of the young nation's size and demographic makeup.
1864: Saratoga Racecourse Opened in New York
America’s oldest thoroughbred racetrack held its first four-day meet in Saratoga Springs, New York, beginning a legacy that continues in modern horse racing.
1865: “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” Was Published in the US
Lewis Carroll’s whimsical novel was officially published in America, sparking generations of literary delight and becoming a staple in children’s literature.
1909: The Lincoln Penny Entered Circulation
Marking Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, the US Mint released the first Lincoln penny—the first American coin to feature a real person. Its reverse showed wheat stalks, later replaced by the Lincoln Memorial.
1920: Marcus Garvey Presented His “Back to Africa” Program
Before a packed Madison Square Garden in New York City, civil rights leader Marcus Garvey outlined his ambitious vision for global Black empowerment and repatriation to Africa.
1939: Albert Einstein Alerted FDR About the Atomic Bomb
Einstein co-signed a letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt warning that Nazi Germany might be developing atomic weapons—prompting the creation of the Manhattan Project.
1943: JFK’s PT-109 Was Sunk During World War II
Future President John F. Kennedy’s patrol boat was rammed by a Japanese destroyer near the Solomon Islands. Kennedy helped save his crew, an act of heroism that later shaped his political legacy.
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!
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