On This Day - October 4
Image source: The GrayVine
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…
1636: First Law Drafted in Plymouth Colony
The Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts drafted its first written law, an early step toward self-governance in colonial America.
1648: America’s First Volunteer Fire Service Established
Peter Stuyvesant organized New Amsterdam’s (now New York City) first volunteer fire brigade, the earliest fire service in America.
1777: Battle of Germantown
George Washington’s troops launched an attack on the British near Philadelphia. Though defeated, the bold offensive helped persuade France of America’s resolve in the Revolution.
1854: Abraham Lincoln Denounces Slavery
At the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, Lincoln spoke out against the Kansas-Nebraska Act, reigniting his political career and setting the stage for his Peoria Speech days later.
1927: Work Begins on Mount Rushmore
Sculptor Gutzon Borglum and his team began carving the massive presidential memorial in South Dakota, a project that would take 14 years to complete.
1957: Sputnik Launch Spurs US Space Race
The Soviet Union launched Sputnik I, the first artificial satellite. Its success shocked Americans and sparked the US-Soviet space race, leading to NASA’s creation the following year.
1957: “Leave It to Beaver” Premieres
CBS debuted Leave It to Beaver, a sitcom that became an iconic portrayal of mid-20th century American suburban life.
1965: Pope Paul VI Visits New York City
Paul VI became the first pope to visit the Western Hemisphere, addressing the United Nations, meeting President Lyndon Johnson, and celebrating mass at Yankee Stadium.
Do you remember any of these events? Or do you have more (historical or not!) you'd like to share with the community? Post them below and let’s reminisce together!
