Government
Utah Becomes 45th State
On January 4, 1896, Utah became a US state. Statehood was finally achieved after several attempts over more than 45 years.
First Postal Savings Stamps Issued
On January 3, 1911, America issued its first Postal Savings stamps. The Postal Savings System was established to serve small investors living in rural communities. Under the program, lower- and middle-income individuals were able to deposit funds at their local post office.
Puerto Rico’s First Democratically Elected Governor
On January 2, 1949, Luis Muñoz Marín became Puerto Rico’s first independently-elected governor. The stamp issued to celebrate the even includes this, his inauguration date.
Texas Admitted to the Union
On December 29, 1845, Texas was admitted as America’s 28th state. Texas joined the US after 10 years as an independent republic.
Endangered Species Act
On December 28, 1973, President Richard Nixon signed the Endangered Species Act into law in an effort to protect threatened species from extinction.
Birth of Kit Carson
Christopher Houston Carson was born December 24, 1809, in Richmond, Kentucky. Better known as Kit Carson, his contributions to the westward expansion of the United States rank him as one of the nation’s great folk heroes.
Federal Reserve Established
On December 23, 1913, President Woodrow Wilson signed the Federal Reserve Act, establishing America’s current central banking system.
Louisiana Purchase is Completed
On December 20, 1803, the Louisiana Purchase was finalized with a ceremony in New Orleans. It doubled the size of the United States at a cost of less than 3¢ per acre.
Colonists Revolt with Boston Tea Party
On December 16, 1773, a group of Massachusetts colonists known as the Sons of Liberty staged a dramatic protest against British taxes – the famed Boston Tea Party.