On This Day - October 3
Image source: The GrayVine
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: Lincoln Proclaimed Thanksgiving Holiday
President Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation designating the final Thursday in November as a national day of Thanksgiving, a tradition that endures in the United States today.
1917: War Revenue Act Passed
To help finance America’s role in World War I, Congress enacted the War Revenue Act, which sharply increased taxes on income, estates, and excess business profits.
1941: The Maltese Falcon Premiered
John Huston’s adaptation of Dashiell Hammett’s detective novel debuted on the big screen. The film noir classic, starring Humphrey Bogart as Sam Spade, became one of the most influential detective movies ever made.
1950: Beulah Debuted
The comedy series Beulah premiered, making history as the first nationally broadcast US television show to star an African American in a leading role. Blues singer-turned-actress Ethel Waters took on the part, later paving the way for her Emmy nomination for Route 66.
1960: The Andy Griffith Show Debuted
A slice of small-town life came to American television with the premiere of The Andy Griffith Show. Its mix of humor and heart made it an instant success.
1961: The Dick Van Dyke Show Began
CBS debuted The Dick Van Dyke Show, a groundbreaking sitcom that blended sharp writing, witty banter, and physical comedy to set the standard for decades to come.
1967: Woody Guthrie’s Passing
American folk icon Woody Guthrie, best known for penning the enduring anthem “This Land Is Your Lan", died at the age of 55.
1990: Germany Reunited
After 45 years of division, East and West Germany were formally reunified, ending a Cold War–era split and ushering in a new era for the nation.
1995: O.J. Simpson Verdict
In one of the most publicized trials in American history, a jury found former football star O.J. Simpson not guilty of the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman.
2004: Janet Leigh’s Passing
Hollywood lost a legend as actress Janet Leigh died at age 77. She was best remembered for her unforgettable role in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho, where her character’s shocking shower scene became one of cinema’s most iconic moments.
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!
