Cartier Explores St. Lawrence River
On June 9, 1534, Jacques Cartier became the first European explorer to travel the St. Lawrence River.
American History
Battle of Fair Oaks
On May 31, 1862, the Civil War Battle of Fair Oaks, known in the South as the Battle of Seven Pines, began. The battle could have been one of the last of the war. Instead, it was a turning point in Major General George B. McClellan’s campaign, and the fighting continued for three more years.
Birth of Al Jolson
Asa “Al” Jolson said he didn’t know when he was born, but later in life claimed his birth date was May 26, 1886.
Canada Centenary Issue
On May 25, 1967, the Canada Centennial stamp was issued in Montreal – the first time a US stamp had a First Day ceremony in another country.
Opening of SIPEX
On May 21, 1966, the Sixth International Philatelic Exhibition opened in Washington, DC.
Brown vs. Board of Education
On May 17, 1954, the US Supreme Court ordered the desegregation of schools as a result of the case of Brown vs. Board of Education.
Happy Birthday Billie Holiday
Singer Eleanora Fagan, better known as Billie Holiday, was born on April 7, 1915, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Booth’s Failed Kidnapping Attempt
On March 20, 1865, John Wilkes Booth planned to kidnap President Abraham Lincoln.
Happy Birthday Charles M. Russell
Artist Charles Marion Russell was born on March 19, 1864, in St. Louis, Missouri.