Bureau of Indian Affairs
On March 11, 1824, US Secretary of War John C. Calhoun created the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Today, the federal agency works with Native American and Alaskan Native tribal governments to maintain their quality of life.
American History
World’s First Telephone Call
On March 10, 1876, Alexander Graham Bell transmitted the first words by telephone, to his assistant in another room. Bell had received his patent for the telephone three days earlier.
Siege of Veracruz
On March 9, 1847, the US launched its first large-scale amphibious assault during the Siege of Veracruz. This notable battle of the Mexican-American War set the stage for the capture of Mexico City.
New York Stock Exchange Established
On March 8, 1817, the New York Stock Exchange was established out of a reorganization of stockbrokers working under the Buttonwood Agreement. Today, it’s the world’s largest stock exchange, with its trading numbering over $25 trillion.
Webster’s Seventh of March Speech
On March 7, 1850, Massachusetts Senator Daniel Webster delivered one of his most famous speeches, the “Seventh of March” speech. It expressed his support for the Compromise of 1850 that would help avert a Civil War but proved disastrous for his Senate career.
Florida Becomes 27th State
On March 3, 1845, Florida joined the Union as the 27th state. The state’s name comes from Ponce de Leon, who arrived centuries earlier and named the area La Florida, likely in honor of the Easter Season, Pascua Florida.
Ohio Becomes 17th State
On March 1, 1803, Ohio was admitted as the 17th state of the Union. Named for the Ohio River, the word Ohio comes from the Seneca people, meaning “great river.”
Start of the Literary Arts Series
On February 27, 1979, the USPS issued the first stamp in the Literary Arts Series honoring author John Steinbeck. The series has continued for 45 years, honoring 35 writers from a variety of backgrounds.
Creation of the 15th Amendment
On February 26, 1869, the US Senate passed the 15th Amendment to the Constitution, giving people of all races and colors the right to vote. The Amendment would be ratified and become official US law a year later.