On This Day - July 24
Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Let's look back at some of the most significant events in America and beyond that happened on this day, starting with...
1901 – O. Henry Walks Free
Celebrated short story writer O. Henry—real name William Sydney Porter—was released from prison in Austin, Texas, after serving three years for embezzling funds while working at a bank. During his incarceration, Porter began writing the witty, twist-ending tales that would make him famous, turning misfortune into literary gold.
1911 – Machu Picchu Reenters the World Stage
American explorer Hiram Bingham arrived at a remote mountain ridge in Peru and brought global attention to the ruins of Machu Picchu, long hidden in the Andes. Though locals had always known of the site, Bingham’s expedition sparked international fascination with the Incan citadel, which remains one of the most iconic archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
1952 – Truman Ends Massive Steel Strike
President Harry S. Truman helped broker an agreement to end a 53-day nationwide steelworkers’ strike, which had threatened the US economy and Cold War-era defense production. The resolution was a crucial moment in labor relations—and a major political test for Truman during his final months in office.
1961 – Edwin Newman Takes the Today Show Helm
Veteran journalist Edwin Newman debuted as anchor of NBC’s Today Show, bringing intelligence, calm authority, and subtle wit to the morning news. Already a respected foreign correspondent, Newman would become one of NBC’s most trusted voices during a transformative era in television journalism.
2022 – Joni Mitchell Returns to the Stage
In a moment that stunned and moved music lovers, Joni Mitchell made a surprise return to live performance at the Newport Folk Festival—her first full set in over two decades. Joining Brandi Carlile and other artists, Mitchell sang, played guitar, and reclaimed her place as one of America’s most treasured singer-songwriters after recovering from a near-fatal aneurysm.
Do you have more events (historical or not!) you'd like to share with the community? Post them below and let's reminisce together!
