Government
Happy Birthday George Washington
Our first President, George Washington, was born on February 22, 1732, in Westmoreland County, Virginia.
Washington Establishes U.S. Post Office
On February 20, 1792, George Washington signed the Postal Service Act, creating the U.S. Post Office.
Oregon and Arizona Become U.S. States
On February 14, 1859, Oregon was admitted to the Union. 53 years later, so was Arizona.
John Marshall – Longest-serving Chief Justice
John Marshall began his 34-year career as chief justice of the Supreme Court on February 4, 1801.
Mahatma Gandhi Assassinated
On January 30, 1948, Gandhi, who was weak from repeated hunger strikes, walked with his grandnieces to a prayer meeting. Along the way, a Hindu extremist who opposed his tolerance of Muslims, knelt before Gandhi and then shot him three times.
Kansas Becomes 34th State
On January 29, 1861, Kansas was admitted to the Union as America was on the brink of Civil War.
Michigan Becomes 26th State
On January 26, 1837, President Andrew Jackson approved Michigan’s bid for statehood.
Founding of El Yunque National Forest
On January 17, 1903, the National Forest Service established Luquillo Forest Reserve (today known as El Yunque National Forest) in Puerto Rico.
Birth of Alexander Hamilton
Alexander Hamilton was born on January 11, 1755 (or 57 – the year is unknown), in Nevis in the British West Indies.