On This Day - June 29
Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Let's look back at some of the most significant events in history that happened on this day, starting with...
1863: America’s First National Bank Charter Issued
The First National Bank of Davenport, Iowa, became the very first bank to receive a charter under the new National Banking Act—ushering in a unified, federally regulated banking system that shaped modern finance.
1906: Holding the Railroads Accountable
Congress passed the Hepburn Act, giving the Interstate Commerce Commission real teeth to regulate railroad, pipeline, and terminal rates. It was a turning point in reining in monopolistic practices.
1936: A Medal for a Broadway Legend
George M. Cohan—of “Yankee Doodle Dandy” fame—was awarded the very first Congressional Gold Medal ever given to an artist, praised for lifting national morale during wartime.
1954: Oppenheimer’s Career Cut Short
The Atomic Energy Commission voted to revoke physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer’s security clearance, citing past associations. The father of the atomic bomb was effectively exiled from U.S. defense work.
2003: A Hollywood Icon Says Goodbye
Katharine Hepburn—four-time Oscar winner and trailblazer for strong, unconventional female roles—died at age 96. Her legacy of fierce independence and talent still looms large.
2007: The iPhone Hits the Market
Apple released the first-generation iPhone, fusing phone, internet, and music into one sleek device. Few realized it at the time, but the world was about to change.
2009: Madoff Sentenced for His Mega-Scheme
Bernie Madoff was sentenced to 150 years in prison for orchestrating a $65 billion Ponzi scheme—one of the largest and most devastating financial frauds in history.
2020: Farewell to a Comedy Giant
Carl Reiner, comedy legend and creator of The Dick Van Dyke Show, died at 98. His wit, warmth, and influence shaped American comedy for generations.
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!
