Government
Connecticut Becomes 5th State
On January 9, 1788, Connecticut ratified the U.S. Constitution, making it the fifth state to join the young United States.
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.
Alaska Becomes America’s 49th State
On January 3, 1959, Alaska joined the United States.
Puerto Rico’s First Democratically-Elected Governor
On January 2, 1949, Luis Muñoz Marín became Puerto Rico’s first independently-elected governor.
First Homestead Claim is Filed
On January 1, 1863, Daniel Freeman filed the first land claim under the Homestead Act.
Iowa Becomes a State
On December 28, 1846, Iowa was admitted as our 29th state.
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.
Bill of Rights Becomes Law
On December 15, 1791, Virginia became the 11th state to ratify the Bill of Rights, earning the three-fourths majority needed to add the first 10 amendments to the Constitution.