Politics
America’s First Female Governor Elected
On November 4, 1924, Wyoming elected Nellie Tayloe Ross America’s first female governor, again proving its nickname, “The Equality State.”
Washington, D.C. Residents Vote in Their First Presidential Election
Though the District of Columbia has served as our nation’s capital since 1791, its residents didn’t get to vote in their first presidential election until November 3, 1964.
Ronald Reagan Enters National Politics
On October 27, 1964, Ronald Reagan delivered his “A Time for Choosing” speech for Barry Goldwater’s presidential campaign, making him a national name.
Sam Houston – President of Texas
On October 22, 1836, Sam Houston became the first elected president of the Republic of Texas.
Did an 11-Year-Old Girl Convince Lincoln to Grow a Beard?
On October 15, 1860, 11-year-old Grace Bedell wrote a letter to Republican presidential nominee Abraham Lincoln. She suggested he grow a beard – which he did shortly after!
Birth of Eleanor Roosevelt
On October 11, 1884, America’s longest-serving First Lady, Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, was born.
America’s First Televised Presidential Debate
On September 26, 1960, John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon took part in America’s first televised debate, which revealed just how important this growing medium would be on future politics.
Pledge of Allegiance First Published
On September 8, 1892, Francis Bellamy’s Pledge of Allegiance was published in The Youth’s Companion magazine to promote patriotism among children.
President Harding Dies Suddenly
Though he had been in poor health for some time, President Warren G. Harding’s death on August 2, 1923, was a shock to the nation, and spurred numerous unfounded rumors.