1942
War & Conflict
Battle of Guadalcanal Begins
US Marines landed on Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands, launching the first major Allied offensive in the Pacific Theater. The six-month campaign became a turning point in the war against Japan.
On This Day in History
1998
War & Conflict
US Embassy Bombings in Africa
Truck bombs detonated simultaneously at US embassies in Nairobi, Kenya, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, killing 224 people. Al-Qaeda claimed responsibility, foreshadowing the September 11 attacks three years later.
1942
War & Conflict
Purple Heart Revived
The Purple Heart medal was revived and awarded retroactively to soldiers wounded in World War I. Originally created by George Washington in 1782, it became the standard decoration for combat wounds.
1789
Politics
Department of War Established
The US Congress created the Department of War to administer the military affairs of the new nation. It oversaw the Army for over 150 years before being reorganized into the Department of Defense.
1964
Politics
Gulf of Tonkin Resolution
Congress passed the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, giving President Johnson broad authority to use military force in Southeast Asia. The resolution effectively authorized the escalation of the Vietnam War.
1888
Technology
Theophilus Van Kannel Patents Revolving Door
The revolving door was patented, solving the problem of air drafts in tall buildings. The invention became essential to skyscraper design and remains ubiquitous in commercial buildings worldwide.
1947
Exploration
Kon-Tiki Expedition Ends
Thor Heyerdahl's balsa wood raft Kon-Tiki completed its 101-day voyage across the Pacific Ocean from Peru to Polynesia. The expedition demonstrated that ancient peoples could have made such ocean crossings.