The First Official Intercollegiate American Football Game
On this day, Rutgers College (now Rutgers University) and the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University) played the first official intercollegiate American football game. This event laid the groundwork for the sport we know today.
Abraham Lincoln is Elected as the 16th President of the U.S.
On this day, Abraham Lincoln, a towering figure in American history, was elected as the 16th President of the United States. His election marked a critical turning point in the nation’s history, eventually leading to the American Civil War and the abolition of slavery.
Shipwrecked Spanish Conquistadors Begin Journey Through Florida and Texas
On this day, the ill-fated expedition of Spanish conquistador Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca reached the shores of present-day Texas. Shipwrecked and stranded, the survivors began an extraordinary journey through the American Southeast, an ordeal that lasted nearly a decade.
Franklin D. Roosevelt Wins a Third Term as U.S. President
President Franklin D. Roosevelt secured an unprecedented third term in office when he was re-elected on November 5th, 1940. This marked a time of immense significance as the world was on the brink of World War II, and Roosevelt played a crucial role in guiding the United States through the conflict.
Susan B. Anthony Votes Illegally
Pioneering suffragist Susan B. Anthony made history on November 5th, 1872, by casting a vote in the U.S. presidential election, despite women not yet having the right to vote. Her courageous act challenged gender norms and contributed to the ongoing fight for women’s suffrage.
The Gunpowder Plot is Foiled
On this day, the infamous Gunpowder Plot, a conspiracy by English Catholics to assassinate King James I by blowing up the House of Lords during the State Opening of Parliament, was foiled. This event, celebrated annually as Guy Fawkes Night, has become a symbol of thwarted treachery and resilience.
Barack Obama Becomes the First African American President of the United States
November 4th, 2008, was a historic day as Barack Obama was elected as the 44th President of the United States. His victory not only marked a significant milestone in American politics but also symbolized hope and progress, inspiring people around the world.
Iranian Hostage Crisis Begins
On this day, fifty-two Americans were taken hostage by Iranian militants at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, marking the beginning of the Iranian Hostage Crisis. The crisis lasted for 444 days and strained diplomatic relations between the United States and Iran.
Howard Carter Discovers Tutankhamun’s Tomb
On this day, British archaeologist Howard Carter made a groundbreaking discovery in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings. He unearthed the entrance to the tomb of the ancient pharaoh Tutankhamun, revealing a treasure trove of artifacts that provided invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian culture and history.
The Soviet Union Launches Sputnik 2 with Laika, the First Living Creature in Space
The Soviet space program achieved another milestone when they launched Sputnik 2 on November 3rd, 1957, with Laika, a dog, aboard. Laika became the first living creature to orbit the Earth, contributing to the early days of human space exploration.