On This Day - June 20
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...
1867: Alaska Purchase Finalized
On this day, the US and Russia formally exchanged ratifications of the Alaska Purchase treaty (the purchase of Alaska from Russia).
1893: Lizzie Borden Acquitted
In a case that captivated the nation, Lizzie Borden was found not guilty of the axe murders of her father and stepmother. The trial inspired books, films, and even that chilling jump-rope rhyme still whispered today.
1895: First Female PhD in Science Earned in the US
Caroline Willard Baldwin became the first woman in America to receive a PhD in Science, earning her degree at Cornell University. She broke barriers in academia and paved the way for generations of women in STEM.
1911: NAACP Officially Incorporated
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People was incorporated in New York, marking a major milestone in the civil rights movement. The organization continues to fight for justice and equality to this day.
1948: Ed Sullivan’s Toast of the Town Premiered
The variety show that would later be known as The Ed Sullivan Show debuted on CBS. With guests like Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis and a preview of South Pacific, it was clear from the start—this show had star power.
1949: Lionel Richie Was Born
Hello! Is it a birthday you're looking for? Singer, songwriter, and all-around music legend Lionel Richie was born on this day in Alabama.
1960: The Huckleberry Hound Show Won an Emmy
Hanna-Barbera’s lovable blue dog made history as the first animated program to win an Emmy Award. Huckleberry Hound walked so Scooby-Doo could run.
1967: Muhammad Ali Sentenced for Draft Refusal
Boxing champ Muhammad Ali was sentenced to five years in prison for refusing to be drafted into the Vietnam War. Though his conviction was later overturned, his stance made headlines and history.
1969: Newport ’69 Drew 200,000 Fans
Held in Northridge, California, this was the largest pop concert of its time. Jimi Hendrix was paid a then-astronomical $120,000 to perform—and absolutely delivered.
1970: The Ray Stevens Show Debuted
Country comic Ray Stevens brought his blend of music and humor to NBC with his own variety show. It may have been short-lived, but it packed in plenty of laughs and banjos.
1975: Jaws Hit the Big Screen
Steven Spielberg’s suspenseful blockbuster premiered and made beachgoers nervous for decades. The theme music alone was enough to keep toes out of the water.
1980: The Blues Brothers Movie Premiered
Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi brought their famous SNL characters to the big screen. With unforgettable cameos by Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, and more, this musical comedy became a cult classic.
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!
