Samuel Colt Receives a Patent for the Colt Revolver
On February 25th, 1836, American inventor Samuel Colt received a U.S. patent for the Colt Revolver, a groundbreaking firearm design that revolutionized the industry with its innovative revolving cylinder. Colt’s revolver would become synonymous with the Wild West and leave an indelible mark on American history.
Buckingham Palace Announces the Engagement of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer
On this day in 1981, Buckingham Palace officially announced the engagement of Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, to Lady Diana Spencer. The royal wedding captivated the world and marked the beginning of a new era for the British monarchy.
The United States House of Representatives Votes to Impeach President Andrew Johnson
A historic moment in American politics occurred on February 24th, 1868, as the United States House of Representatives voted to impeach President Andrew Johnson on charges of high crimes and misdemeanors. Johnson’s impeachment trial in the Senate would follow, shaping the course of Reconstruction-era politics.
The Supreme Court’s Marbury v. Madison Decision Establishes Judicial Review
On February 24th, 1803, the United States Supreme Court handed down its landmark decision in Marbury v. Madison. Chief Justice John Marshall’s opinion established the principle of judicial review, affirming the Court’s authority to interpret the Constitution and declare acts of Congress unconstitutional.
The Flag Raising on Iwo Jima
On February 23rd, 1945, during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II, U.S. Marines raised the American flag atop Mount Suribachi, a moment immortalized in Joe Rosenthal’s iconic photograph. The image became a symbol of American resilience and sacrifice during the war.
The Rotary Club is Founded in Chicago
A cornerstone of community service and international fellowship was established on February 23rd, 1905, with the founding of the Rotary Club in Chicago, Illinois. The Rotary Club has since grown into a global organization dedicated to promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, and supporting education worldwide.
The Siege of the Alamo Begins in San Antonio, Texas
A pivotal moment in the Texas Revolution occurred on February 23rd, 1836, as Mexican forces under General Santa Anna began their siege of the Alamo Mission in San Antonio, Texas. The siege would culminate in a fierce battle and the tragic loss of many Texan defenders.
Dolly the Sheep is Cloned
A groundbreaking scientific achievement occurred on February 22nd, 1997, with the announcement of the successful cloning of Dolly the Sheep by researchers at the Roslin Institute in Scotland. Dolly, the first mammal to be cloned from an adult somatic cell, captured the world’s imagination and sparked ethical debates about the implications of cloning technology.
“Miracle on Ice” – United States Hockey Team Defeats Soviet Union at Winter Olympics
A historic sporting upset unfolded on February 22nd, 1980, as the United States ice hockey team defeated the heavily favored Soviet Union team during the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York. This victory, known as the “Miracle on Ice,” remains one of the greatest moments in Olympic history.
Spain Cedes Florida to the United States
On this day in 1819, Spain formally ceded Florida to the United States under the terms of the Adams-Onís Treaty. This agreement marked the end of Spanish colonial rule in Florida and paved the way for American expansion in the southeastern United States.