1685
Politics
James II Becomes King of England
James II ascended to the English throne following the death of his brother Charles II. His Catholic faith and authoritarian tendencies would lead to the Glorious Revolution three years later.
On This Day in History
1778
Politics
France and the United States Sign Treaty of Alliance
France formally recognized the United States and signed a military alliance, entering the American Revolutionary War against Britain. French support proved crucial to American victory.
1820
Civil Rights
First Organized Immigration of Free Blacks to Africa
The first group of 86 free African Americans departed New York for Sierra Leone under the auspices of the American Colonization Society. This effort would eventually lead to the founding of Liberia.
1862
War & Conflict
Battle of Fort Henry
Union forces under General Ulysses S. Grant captured Fort Henry on the Tennessee River. This was Grant's first major victory and opened the way for the Union advance into the Western Confederacy.
1911
Politics
Ronald Reagan Is Born
Ronald Reagan was born in Tampico, Illinois. He would become Hollywood actor, Governor of California, and the 40th President of the United States.
1952
Politics
Elizabeth II Becomes Queen of the United Kingdom
Princess Elizabeth became Queen upon the death of her father, King George VI. She would reign for over 70 years, the longest in British history.
1958
Disaster
Munich Air Disaster
A plane carrying the Manchester United football team crashed during takeoff at Munich airport, killing 23 people including 8 players. The tragedy devastated one of Europe's finest football teams.