On This Day - September 9
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…
1776: “United States of America” Became the Official Name
The Continental Congress formally adopted the name United States of America, replacing “United Colonies,” signaling a new national identity in the midst of the Revolution.
1850: California Became the 31st State
As part of the Compromise of 1850, California entered the Union as a free state, reshaping the political balance and accelerating westward growth.
1908: Orville Wright Flew for Over an Hour
At Fort Myer, Virginia, Orville Wright completed the first airplane flight to exceed one hour (62 minutes, 15 seconds), a milestone in powered flight.
1919: The Boston Police Strike Began
Boston officers walked off the job over pay and conditions, prompting riots, a statewide mobilization of the Guard, and a national debate over public-sector unions.
1956: Elvis Presley Debuted on The Ed Sullivan Show
Broadcast from Los Angeles and introduced by guest host Charles Laughton, Elvis’s first Sullivan appearance drew an enormous TV audience and cemented his national stardom.
1957: Eisenhower Signed the Civil Rights Act
President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Civil Rights Act of 1957—the first federal civil-rights law since Reconstruction—aimed at protecting Black voting rights.
1965: Sandy Koufax Threw a Perfect Game
The Dodgers left-hander authored a 1–0 perfect game against the Cubs at Dodger Stadium—one of the greatest pitching performances in MLB history.
1971: The Attica Prison Uprising Began
Following protests over conditions, inmates seized control of Attica Correctional Facility in New York, sparking a four-day crisis that reshaped national conversations on prisons and rights.
2001: Band of Brothers Premiered
HBO debuted the World War II miniseries produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, bringing Easy Company’s story to a massive American audience.
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!
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