On This Day - August 26
Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Let’s look back at some of the most significant events in American history that happened on this day, starting with…
1791: A Steamboat Patent Pushed American Innovation Forward
Inventor John Fitch received one of the United States’ earliest patents for a working steamboat—part of the country’s first wave of federal protections for invention. It marked a key moment on the long path to practical steam navigation in America.
1920: The 19th Amendment Was Certified
Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby certified the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing women the right to vote nationwide. The date later became associated with Women’s Equality Day.
1939: Baseball Hit the Small Screen for the First Time
NBC’s experimental station W2XBS televised a Dodgers–Reds doubleheader from Ebbets Field—the first Major League Baseball games ever shown on TV. Only a few thousand New Yorkers with early sets could watch it live.
1947: Dan Bankhead Broke a Barrier—and Homered
Brooklyn’s Dan Bankhead became the first Black pitcher in MLB when he debuted against the Pirates. He also homered in his very first at-bat.
1968: “Hey Jude” Landed in the US
The Beatles released “Hey Jude” in the United States, a single that topped charts and became one of the most successful records in pop history. Its US release came days before the UK.
1970: The Women’s Strike for Equality Filled the Streets
On the 50th anniversary of the 19th Amendment’s certification, tens of thousands joined nationwide demonstrations calling for equal opportunities and rights for women. The day helped shape the modern women’s movement.
2015: A Tragedy Unfolded Live on Air in Virginia
WDBJ journalists Alison Parker and Adam Ward were fatally shot during a live broadcast near Roanoke, shocking viewers and reigniting debate over gun violence and workplace safety.
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!
