1768 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsSamuel Adams (1722-1803) of Massachusetts writes a Circular Letter opposing taxation without representation.PoliticsBoston citizens refuse to quarter British troops. GovernmentThe Massachusetts Assembly is dissolved for refusing to assist in the collection of taxes. GovernmentNative Americans: treaties are negotiated between Great Britain and the six nations of the Iroquois.WarRevolutionary War: British troops sail to Boston, and two regiments come ashore to take up quarters in the city. | MedicineSmallpox inoculations in Norfolk, VA cause riots. | EducationHigher Education: The medical school at Philadelphia College graduates its first physicians. Arts and LettersThe Royal Academy is founded in London, with painter Joshua Reynolds (1723-1792) as president. | Adams, AbigailA second daughter, Susanna (1768-1770), is born December 28 to Abigail and John Adams. The Adams family moves to Boston.Madison, DolleyDolley Payne (1768-1849), future wife of President James Madison (1751-1836), is born on May 20 in Guilford County, North Carolina. Monroe, ElizabethElizabeth Kortright (1768-1830), future Wife of President James Monroe (1758-1831), is born on June 30 in New York City, the first of ten First Ladies born in New York, the "mother state" of presidential wives. | EconomicsSheet music is published and sold in Boston.EconomicsAnne Catherine Green (c.1720-1775) is formally appointed provincial printer for the province of Maryland. DiscoveryExplorer James Cook (1728-1779) investigates islands in the south Pacific, and observes a transit of Venus in order to determine the size of the solar system.Daily LifeNewspapers: The "Boston Gazette" publishes “The Liberty Song,” possibly America''s first patriotic song. | | ReligionThe first Methodist Church is established in New York City. |
1769 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThe Privy Council in London decides to retain the duty on tea in the American colonies. GovernmentThe Virginia Assembly is dissolved. GovernmentSan Diego is founded by Franciscan Friar Juniper Serra (1713-1784). | ScienceCharles Bonnet (1720-1793) suggests an evolutionary theory.ScienceNew mathematical symbols, such as pi are introduced by Leonhard Euler (1707-1783). ScienceDavid Rittenhouse (1732-1796) plots the orbits of Venus and Mercury.InventionsJames Watt (1736-1819) patents his steam engine. InventionsFrenchman Nicholas Cugnot (1725-1804) builds a steam carriage. | EducationThe Academie de Coiffure is established in France by Legros de Rumigny, who teaches hairdressing and wig-making skills.EducationThe first day nursery opens at Steintal, Alsace. EducationHigher Education: Native American Education: Dartmouth College is established to educate Native Americans. | Jefferson, MarthaThomas Jefferson (1743-1826) begins building Monticello in Albemarle County, Virginia. Madison, DolleyDolley Payne’s (1768-1849) father, John Payne, moves his wife and family back to his wife's family plantation at Cole's Hill, Virginia. | EconomicsThe first American-made printing fonts are produced by silversmith Abel Buell (1742-1822).EconomicsHenry William Stiegel (1729-1785) opens his glass works in Manheim, Pennsylvania.DiscoveryDaniel Boone (1734-1820) explores the Cumberland Gap. Daily LifeThe first lightning rod conductors are installed on high buildings. | | |
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1770 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThe British Parliament repeals the Townshend Acts, but retains the duty on tea. The Quartering Act is not renewed. WarRevolutionary War: The “Boston Massacre” occurs. | MedicineJohn Warren and several other Harvard students form a society for the secret dissection of animals; this society later becomes the Massachusetts Medical Society. InventionsAfrican American Inventors: Benjamin Bannecker (1731-1806) builds a wooden clock that keeps accurate time for more than 50 years. | EducationHigher Education: The College of Charleston is established in South Carolina as the first municipal college.EducationLeonhard Euler (1707-1783) publishes a mathematics textbook, "Introduction to Algebra."Arts and LettersPainting: Thomas Gainsborough (1727-1788) paints “The Blue Boy.”IdeasEdmund Burke (1729-1797) writes "Thoughts on the Causes of the Present Discontent." | Adams, AbigailSusanna Adams (1767-1770), second daughter of Abigail and John Adams, dies at 13 months of age on February 4. It is widely reported that she was "sickly" from birth (usually a way of saying either that the cause was an unknown infection or that no one really knew what was wrong).
Adams, AbigailA second son, Charles (1770-1800), is born to Abigail and John Adams on November 30. John Adams is asked to defend the British soldiers involved in the Boston Massacre; he does, and they are acquitted. | EconomicsU.S. Population: The American colonies’ population is estimated at 2.2 million. Economics"The New England Psalm Singer," by William Billings (1746-1800), marks the beginning of publishing of American compositions. DiscoveryJames Bruce (1730-1794) discovers the source of the Blue Nile. DiscoveryJames Cook (1728-1779) discovers Botany Bay in Australia. | | |
1771 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
| ScienceLuigi Galvani (1737-1798) discovers the electrical nature of the nervous impulse. ScienceJoseph Priestly (1733-1804) discovers that plants convert carbon dioxide into oxygen.MedicineNew York Hospital is founded. | EducationThe Encyclopedia Britannica publishes its first edition. EducationAn edict in Spain requires the modernization of textbooks. IdeasThe first issue of "Transactions," the journal of the American Philosophical Society, is published. | | EconomicsSir Richard Arkwright (1732-1792) produces the first spinning mill in England. Daily LifeQuaker Susanna Wright (1697-1784) acts as a legal counselor, unofficial magistrate, and physician for her neighbors in Pennsylvania. | | ReligionThe first separate Baptist Association was formed at a meeting in Orange County, Virginia. |
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1772 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawSlavery: An English court rules that a slave is free on landing in England. PoliticsSamuel Adams (1722-1803) forms the Committees of Correspondence in Massachusetts for action against Great Britain.PoliticsThe Boston Assembly demands rights of colonies, threatens secession. | ScienceDaniel Rutherford (1749-1819) and Joseph Priestly (1733-1804) discover nitrogen. ScienceCaroline Herschel (1750-1848), with her brother, William Herschel (1738-1822) assists in the first sightings of eight comets and 14 nebulae. ScienceLeonhard Euler (1707-1783) clarifies the basic principles of optics, acoustics, mechanics, and astronomy. InventionsJohn Hobday of Virginia, invents the threshing machine. | EducationThe first schoolhouse west of the Allegheny Mountains is built in Schoenbrunn, Ohio, by Moravian missionaries.EducationHigher Education: Education of Women: Women’s Colleges: Salem Academy is founded in North Carolina and is chartered as a college in 1866. Arts and LettersPainting: Charles Wilson Peale (1741-1827) completes a life-sized portrait of George Washington. | Adams, AbigailA third son, Thomas Boylston (1772-1832), is born to Abigail and John Adams on September 15. Jefferson, MarthaMartha Wayles Skelton (1748-1782) marries Thomas Jefferson on New Year's Day, when she is 23.Jefferson, MarthaMartha "Patsy" Washington Jefferson Randolph (1772-1836), daughter of Thomas and Martha Jefferson, is born September 27. | DiscoveryJames Bruce (1730-1794) traces the Blue Nile to its confluence with the White Nile.DiscoveryJames Cook (1728-1779) leaves England on his second voyage; this time he approaches the Antarctic Circle. | Sports The first military ski competitions are held in Norway. | ReligionThe Inquisition is abolished in France. |
1773 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsThe Virginia House of Burgesses appoints a Provincial Committee of Correspondence. PoliticsThe Boston Tea Party takes place, dumping 340 chests of tea into Boston harbor in a protest against the duty on tea. GovernmentPresidents: William Henry Harrison (1773-1841), 9th Presdident of the United States, is born on February 9 in Berkeley, Virginia. | MedicineMental Health Movement: An early mental hospital, the Public Hospital for Persons of Insane and Disordered Minds, opens in Williamsburg, VA. | EducationMuseums: The Charleston (VA) Library Society opens the first American museum of natural history. Arts and LettersDrama: Oliver Goldsmith (1728-1774) writes the play, "She Stoops to Conquer." Arts and LettersPoetry: Women''s Firsts: Women''s Firsts: Black poet Phillis Wheatley (c.1753-1784) publishes "Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral," the first published works by an African American poet. Arts and LettersDance: A dance class begun in Moscow later becomes the Bolshoi Ballet Company. | Washington, MarthaMartha "Patsy" Parke Custis (1754-1773), second daughter of Martha Washington and John Parke Custis, and stepdaughter of George Washington, dies suddenly of epilepsy on June 19.Adams, AbigailAbigail Adams (1744-1818) establishes a friendship with Mercy Warren (1728-1814), sister of James Otis (1725-1783). | EconomicsTransportation: Oliver Evans (1755-1819) proposes steam-powered “horseless carriage.” DiscoveryJames Cook (1728-1779), captains the first ship to cross the Antarctic Circle. Daily LifeDancing: The waltz becomes fashionable in Vienna. Daily Life310 street lamps are installed and kept lighted in Boston from October to May. | | ReligionPope Clement XIV (1705-1774) dissolves the Jesuit Order. ReligionThe first annual conference of American Methodists meets in Philadelphia. |
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1774 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsThe Virginia House of Burgesses calls a Continental Congress to meet at Philadelphia.GovernmentGeneral Thomas Gage (1721-1787) arrives from England to be Royal Governor of Massachusetts.GovernmentParliament passes the Coercive Acts (Intolerable Acts); the port of Boston is closed. WarRevolutionary War: George Washington (1732-1799) orders a military campaign against the Iroquois. | ScienceJohann G. Gahn (1745-1818) isolates manganese. ScienceKarl W. Scheele (1742-1786) discovers chorine and barium. MedicineAustrian physician Franz Mesmer (1734-1815) uses hypnosis for health purposes. MedicineNative Americans: Benjamin Rush (1745-1813) describes Indian medical practices. InventionsScotsman James Watt (1736-1819) builds first "modern" stationary steam engine | EducationSwiss educator Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi (1746-1827) founds a school for orphaned and neglected children in Zurich (Switzerland).EducationEducation of Women: Leonhard Usteri founds the first school for girls in Zurich, Switzerland. IdeasThomas Jefferson (1743-1826) writes his first important work, "A Summary View of the Rights of British America." | Washington, MarthaJacky Custis (1755-1781) leaves King's College to marry Eleanor Calvert of Maryland and settle at Abingdon, his estate up the river from Mount Vernon.George Washington attends the First Continental Congress, meeting in Philadelphia, as a delegate from the Virginia colony.Adams, AbigailJohn Adams (1735-1826) goes to the first Continental Congress.Jefferson, MarthaJane Randolph Jefferson (1774-1775), daughter of Thomas and Martha Jefferson, is born on April 3. | EconomicsEnglish silversmith Hester Bateman (c. 1709-1794) registers her hallmark in London’s guildhall. Daily LifeMagazines: The Royal American Magazine is the first to use illustrations regularly, some engravings contributed by Paul Revere (1735-1818). | Sports Cricket: The rules for cricket are first drawn up. | ReligionThe Quebec Act, to secure Canada’s loyalty to Great Britain, establishes Roman Catholicism in Canada. ReligionAnne Lee (1736-1784) of Massachusetts settles in New York to begin a spiritualist revival (the Shakers). |
1775 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentNative Americans: The Continental Congress establishes a Committee on Indian Affairs, appointing commissioners to create peace treaties with the Indians.WarRevolutionary War: George Washington becomes Commander-in-Chief, a navy is authorized. WarRevolutionary War: The American Revolution begins on April 19, with the battles at Lexington and Concord; the Battle of Bunker Hill follows shortly.WarRevolutionary War: England hires 29,000 German mercenaries for war in North America.WarRevolutionary War: Fort Ticonderoga is captured from the British. | ScienceJoseph Priestley (1733-1804) discovers hydrochloric and sulfuric acids. MedicineDigitalis is used for the first time as a diuretic in dropsy (water retention in the body).
MedicineEpidemics: A world-wide epidemic of influenza occurs.InventionsJames Watt (1736-1819) perfects his invention of the steam engine. InventionsDavid Bushnell (1742-1824) invents a one-man, hand-operated submarine, the “American Turtle.” | IdeasEdmund Burke (1729-1797) writes his “Speech on Conciliation with America.” IdeasPatrick Henry (1736-1799) gives his famous “Give me liberty or give me death” speech. | Washington, MarthaGeorge Washington (1732-1799) attends the Second Continental Congress, where he accepts command of the Continental Army. In December, Martha (1731-1802) joins him at his headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts.Jefferson, MarthaJane Randolph Jefferson (1774-1775), second daughter of Thomas and Martha Jefferson, dies at seventeen months in September.Madison, DolleyDolley Payne (1768-1849) attends school with her brothers at the Cedar Creek Friends meetinghouse in Virginia.Adams, LouisaLouisa Catherine Johnson (1775-1852), future wife of President John Quincy Adams (1767-1848), is born in London on February 12. She is the first First Lady to be born outside of the United States.Harrison, AnnaAnna Tuthill Symmes (1775-1864), future wife of President William Henry Harrison ((1773–1841) is born in Flatbrook, New Jersey on July 25. | EconomicsAmerican Money: American colonists issue paper currency for the Continental Congress to finance the Revolutionary War. EconomicsThe colonies supply nearly 15% of the world’s iron. DiscoveryJames Cook (1728-1779) returns from his second voyage. Daily LifeThe song “Yankee Doodle” becomes popular as a rallying song to taunt the British. Daily LifeWomen’s Firsts: Mary Katherine Goddard (1738-1816) became the first woman postmaster in the country (in Baltimore). | Sports Native Americans: Indians in Florida are described as playing lacrosse, using a deerskin ball and deerskin nets on sticks. Popular CultureSarah Siddons (1755-1831) appears for the first time at the Drury Lane Theatre in London. Popular CultureAmerican Theatre: Colonial government regulations curb sport and entertainment during the Revolution; theatres close. | Social IssuesSlavery: Thomas Paine (1737-1806) writes "African Slavery in America."ReformAbolition Movement: The first abolition society in the U.S. is organized in Philadelphia by Anthony Benezet (1713-1784); Benjamin Franklin becomes its president in 1787. ReformWomen''s Rights Movement: American political philosopher Thomas Paine (1737-1806) proposes women’s rights in an article in the Pennsylvania Magazine. |
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1776 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThe Declaration of Independence, drafted by The Continental Congress, is signed on July 4. GovernmentThe Second Continental Congress names the new nation the United States of America.WarRevolutionary War: The British army occupies New York City.WarRevolutionary War: George Washington (1732-1799) crosses the Delaware River, defeating the Hessian troops at Trenton, NJ. | | EducationHigher Education: Phi Beta Kappa is founded at the College of William and Mary. Arts and LettersEdward Gibbon (1737-1794) writes "The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire." IdeasAdam Smith (1723-1790) writes "An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations." Ideas Thomas Paine’s (1737-1806) "Common Sense" is published.
| Washington, MarthaAgain, Martha Washington joins her husband at his headquarters in New York. She lends her name to a formal effort to recruit more women to volunteer on behalf of the Continental Army, especially to sew uniforms and knit warm clothes for the troops.Adams, Abigail(1744-1818) writes a letter to John in which she tells him to “remember the ladies” when writing the Declaration of Independence. | EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: English tram road is laid down with cast iron angle bars on timber ties.DiscoveryJames Cook’s (1728-1779) third voyage to the Pacific begins. DiscoveryFranciscan friars Dominguez and Escalante (1769–1779) explore route from New Mexico to California. Daily LifeDisasters: Fire destroys most of the old parts of New York City. | | ReligionSan Francisco is established by Spanish missionaries.Social IssuesNative Americans: Cherokee leader Nancy (or Nanye’hi) Ward (c. 1738-1824) heads the Woman’s Council and sits as a member of the Council of Chiefs. ReformWomen's Suffrage Movement: New Jersey grants women the right to vote (revoked in 1807). |
1777 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThe Continental Congress adopts the Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union. GovernmentAmerican Flag: On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress passes the first Flag Act which states: "That the flag of the United States be made of thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new Constellation." WarRevolutionary War: The Marquis de Lafayette’s (1757-1834) French volunteers arrive in America. WarRevolutionary War: British General John Burgoyne (1722-1792) is defeated and surrenders to the Americans at Saratoga, NY. | ScienceAntoine-Laurent Lavoisier (1743-1794) proves that air consists mainly of oxygen and nitrogen, and coins the term oxygen.MedicineGeorge Washington (1732-1799) orders his soldiers to be inoculated against smallpox. | Arts and LettersDrama: Playwright Richard Brinsley Sheridan (1751-1816) writes the comedy "The School for Scandal." | Washington, MarthaMartha spends some time in her husband’s camp in Morristown, Pennsylvania.Jefferson, MarthaThe only Jefferson son was born May 28 and died a short while later on June 14. Over the course of time, this child's name has been lost. | EconomicsWomen''s Firsts: Baltimore postmaster Mary Katherine Goddard (1738-1816) is the first person to print the Declaration of Independence.Daily LifeWomen’s Firsts: Mary Katherine Goddard (1738-1816) became the first printer to offer copies of the Declaration of Independence that included the signers' names. | | ReligionThe New Testament of the Bible is published in English for the first time in America. ReligionThe chapel of the San Juan Capistrano mission, the oldest building still in existence in California, is built. Social IssuesSlavery: Vermont abolishes slavery, becoming the first colony to do so. Social IssuesCivil Rights Movement: New York enfranchises all free propertied men regardless of color or prior servitude. |
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1778 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentCongress ratifies a treaty with France and rejects a British peace offer. GovernmentSlavery: An Act of Congress prohibits the import of slaves into the U.S.WarRevolutionary War: British Tories and Indians massacre inhabitants of Wyoming Valley, PA and Cherry Valley, NY.WarRevolutionary War: Mary McCauley (1754-1832)
(Molly Pitcher), carries water to American soldiers during the Battle of Monmouth; she then mans her husband’s cannon when he is killed.
| MedicineWilliam Brown (1748-1792), Virginia physician, publishes "Pharmacopoeia," a guide to medicines and drugs. InventionsJoseph Bramah (1748-1814) from Yorkshire constructs an improved water closet (toilet). | EducationPhillips Andover Academy is founded in Massachusetts, with a broader curriculum than the Latin Grammar School. | Washington, MarthaDuring the bitter winter at Valley Forge, Martha Washington endeared herself to the soldiers as she brought food and warm clothing to the freezing men and worked hard to get local women to do the same.Adams, AbigailA sixth child is stillborn to Abigail (1744-1818) and John Adams (1735-1826).Jefferson, MarthaMary "Polly" "Maria" Jefferson (1778-1804), daughter of Thomas and Martha Jefferson, is born on August 1. | EconomicsAmerican Money: The dollar sign ($) is created by Oliver Pollack. DiscoveryJames Cook (1728-1779) discovers Hawaii (then called the Sandwich Islands). | | Social IssuesNative Americans: Frances Slocum (1773-1847) is captured by Delaware Indians; she is discovered in 1835 but refuses to return to her family, preferring to die where “the Great Spirit will find me.” Social IssuesSlavery: Rhode Island forbids the removal of slaves from the state.Social IssuesSlavery: Virginia prohibits the importation of slaves. |
1779 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
WarRevolutionary War: John Paul Jones (1747-1792) makes his famous statement, “I have not yet begun to fight!” aboard the American warship Bonhomme Richard.WarRevolutionary War: The British surrender to Americans at Vincennes. | MedicineLazzaro Spallanzani (1729-1799) studies the role of semen in fertilization. | EducationHigher Education: Under Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), William and Mary College creates schools of medicine, law and modern languages, and pioneers in a system allowing students to choose courses. EducationPublic Education: Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) proposes a two-track educational system, with different tracks in his words for "the laboring and the learned." Scholarship would allow a very few of the laboring class to advance, Jefferson says, by "raking a few geniuses from the rubbish." | | Daily LifeThe first “velocipedes” (bicycles) appear in Paris. Daily LifePolitical cartooning blossoms in England with satires of King George III (1738-1820) drawn by James Gillray (1756-1815). | Sports Horse Racing: The Derby is established at Epsom racetrack in England. Sports Horse Racing: Quarter-mile horse races become popular around Charlottesville, VA. | ReligionJohn Murray (1741-1815) establishes the First Universalist congregation at Gloucester, Massachusetts. ReligionThe Great Awakening: Olney Hymns are published; it includes the original form of “Amazing Grace,” written by John Newton (1725-1807), a converted slave trader. |
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1780 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThe capital of Virginia is moved to Richmond. | ScienceThe American Academy of Sciences is founded in Boston. MedicineThe Philadelphia Humane Society is established to teach first aid (reviving drowning victims). Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) proposes mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. InventionsThe circular saw is invented by Gervinus. InventionsScheller invents the first fountain pen. TechnologyBattery Technology: The modern battery development dates as far back as the late 18th century. The cause was championed by the work carried out by Luigi Galvani (1737-1798) from 1780 to 1786. | | Jefferson, MarthaLucy Elizabeth I (1780-1781), daughter of Thomas and Martha Jefferson, is born on November 3. | EconomicsPopulation: U.S. population is estimated at 2.7 million. Daily LifeNewspapers: The first Sunday newspapers appear in London. Daily LifeDancing: The bolero, a lively Spanish dance, is introduced by Sebastian Cerezo. | Sports Cricket: The first six-seamed cricket ball is manufactured in England. | Social IssuesSlavery: Delaware makes it illegal to enslave imported Africans.Social IssuesSlavery: Pennsylvania begins gradual emancipation of slaves.Social IssuesSlavery: Women''s Firsts: Elizabeth Freeman (1742-1829), great-grandmother of W.E.B. DuBois (1868-1963) and the first slave to be emancipated in the American colonies is given her freedom in Massachusetts. |
1781 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThomas Barclay (1728-1793) is appointed as the first diplomat of the Continental Government, representing the new nation in France.WarRevolutionary War: The American Revolution ends when British General Charles Cornwallis (1738-1805) surrenders to General George Washington (1732-1799) at Yorktown, Virginia. | ScienceAstronomer William Herschel (1738-1822) discovers the planet Uranus. | EducationJohann Pestalozzi (1747-1827) writes his educational aims in the novel, "Leonard and Gertrude." | Jefferson, MarthaLucy Elizabeth I (1780-1781), fourth daughter of Thomas and Martha Jefferson, dies 5 months after birth on April 15, perhaps as a result of exposure to wintry cold as she fled with her family from the British. Washington, MarthaJohn "Jacky" Parke Custis (1754-1781), second son of Martha Washington and stepson of George Washington, dies of dysentery while serving under Washington during the Revolutionary War. The Washingtons take his two younger children, George Washington Parke Custis and Eleanor (Nelly) Custis, to raise. | EconomicsAmerican Money: Also to support the Revolutionary War, the continental Congress charters the Bank of North America in Philadelphia as the nation's first "real" bank. EconomicsBlue laws get their name in New Haven, CT, when a town ordinance printed on blue paper prohibits work on Sunday. EconomicsConstruction begins on the Siberian highway. Economics The Bank of North America is chartered. | | ReligionFranciscan monks settle at Los Angeles. |
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1782 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThe Great Seal of the United States is adopted. GovernmentPresidents: Martin Van Buren (1782-1862), 8th President of the United States, is born on December 5 in Kinderhook, New York.WarPreliminary peace negotiations between England and the United States occur in Paris. WarCongress passes a national conscription act to require “each and every free able-bodied white male citizen of the republic” to serve in the U.S. militia. | MedicineHigher Education: Harvard Medical school opens. InventionsJames Watt (1736-1819) invents a double-acting rotary steam engine. TechnologyHot Air Balloons: The Montgolfier brothers, Joseph (1740-1810) and Jacques (1745-1799), build an hot air balloon. | EducationCatholic Education: The first Catholic parochial school is founded by St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Philadelphia. Arts and LettersThe Royal Irish Academy is founded in Dublin. | Jefferson, MarthaLucy Elizabeth II (1782-1784), daughter of Thomas and Martha Jefferson, is born on May 8. Jefferson, MarthaMartha Wayles Skelton Jefferson (1748-1782), wife of Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), dies on September 6 at Monticello. She is the first First Lady to die before her husband was elected to office. | EconomicsThe Bank of North America is established in Philadelphia. | | ReformTemperance Movement: A Town Meeting in Worcester, Massachusetts opposes a state liquor tax because it is felt that liquor is necessary for the morale of farm workers. |
1783 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
WarRevolutionary War: Great Britain recognizes the independence of the U.S. and the war is officially over with the signing of the Treaty of Paris. WarRevolutionary War: George Washington (1732-1799) resigns as Commander-in-Chief and the Continental Army is disbanded. | ScienceAntoine Lavoisier (1743-1794) suggests that water is composed of hydrogen and oxygen. InventionsJohn Broadwood (1732-1812) patents his piano pedals. InventionsD. Domenico Salsano invents the seismograph for measuring the strength of earthquakes. | EducationHigher Education: Enrollment at Yale College is 270. EducationEducation of Women: Choderlos de Laclos (1741-1803) publishes "De l’éducation des femmes" (On the Education of Women). EducationNoah Webster (1758-1843) publishes "The American Spelling Book," called the “Blue-Backed Speller,” which helps standardize spelling of American English.Arts and LettersThe first works of Ludwig van Beethoven’s (1770-1827) are published. | Washington, MarthaAs the Revolutionary War ends, Martha (1731-1892) and George Washington (1732-1799) return to Mount Vernon.Madison, DolleyDolley Madison’s (1764-1849) father, John Payne, influenced by his Quaker tenets and desiring a better education for his children, frees his slaves, sells his plantation, and moves his family to Philadelphia.Van Buren, HannahHannah Hoes (1783-1819), future wife of President Martin Van Buren ((1782–1862), is born on March 8th in Kinderhook, New York. She is the first First Lady to be born an American citizen; all First Ladies before her were British subjects. She is also the second of ten First Ladies born in New York, the "mother state" of presidential wives. | EconomicsPopulation: Population of the U.S. is estimated at 2.4 million.Daily LifeNewspapers: At the war's end, there are forty-three newspapers in print. The press plays a vital role in the affairs of the new nation; many more newspapers are started, representing all shades of political opinion.Daily LifeSociety of the Cincinnati, an elite American Revolutionary group, is established.Daily LifeNewspapers: The first daily newspaper in the U.S., "The Pennsylvania Evening Post," begins publication. Daily LifeTransportation: It takes Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) five days to travel from Philadelphia to Baltimore, about 90 miles. | Popular CultureHot Air Balloons: The first recorded manned flight in a hot air balloon takes place in Paris; the Montgolfier brothers pilot their paper and silk balloon for 22 minutes. | Social IssuesSlavery: Virginia emancipates those slaves who served in the colonial forces against Britain, provided that the slave's master gives permission.Social Issues Slavery: Affluent free blacks in New Orleans, Louisiana, organize the Perseverance, Benevolence and Mutual Aid Association to support their own interests and assist the poor. |
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1784 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentSlavery: Congress narrowly defeats Thomas Jefferson’s (1743-1826) proposal to ban slavery in new territories after 1800.GovernmentPresidents: Zachary Taylor (1784-1950), 12th President of the U.S., is born November 24, near Barboursville, Virginia.GovernmentNorth Carolina cedes its western lands to the U.S. The state of Franklin (present-day east Tennessee) exists until 1888, when settlers accept renewed jurisdiction of North Carolina. WarRevolutionary War: The U.S. ratifies the treaty with England ending the Revolutionary War. | MedicineJohann von Goethe (1749-1837) discovers the human intermaxillary bone. InventionsSwiss inventor Aimé Argand (1755-1803) designs an oil burner. InventionsJoseph Bramah (1748-1814), English engineer, invents a pick-proof lock. | EducationSpecial Education: The first school for the blind is established in Paris. EducationHigher Education: King’s College in New York City becomes Columbia University.IdeasThomas Jefferson (1743-1826) publishes "Notes on Virginia." | Adams, AbigailAbigail Adams (1744-1818) joins husband, John (1735-1826), in Paris, where he is an ambassador.Jefferson, MarthaLucy Elizabeth II (1782-1784), daughter of Thomas and Martha Jefferson, dies October 13 from the "complicated evils of teething, worms and hooping cough." | EconomicsThe "Empress of China" sails from Salem, Massachusetts to Canton, China, establishing a route for the New England-China trade. Daily LifeThe first political cartoons by Thomas Rowlandson (1756-1827) are published. Daily LifeMagazines: "Gentlemen and Ladies’ Town and Country Magazine" begins publication as does "The American Mercury." | Sports Deer hunting at night in the Carolinas is made a misdemeanor because of the accidental slaughter of many cows and horses. Popular CultureHot Air Balloons: Vincent Lunardi (1759-1806) first ascends in a hot air balloon in England. Popular CultureHot Air Balloons: Elisabeth Thible becomes the first woman to go aloft as a passenger in a hot air balloon over Lyons, France. | ReligionThe first American bishop for the colonies is appointed. ReligionThe Great Awakening: John Wesley (1702-1791) publishes his Deed of Declaration, and Weslayan Methodism is chartered. ReligionWomen''s Firsts: Hannah Adams (1755-1832), the first American woman to support herself as a writer, publishes "An Alphabetical Compendium of the Various Sects." |
1785 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentCongress passes the Land Ordinance of 1785 (Northwest Ordinance). GovernmentThomas Jefferson (1743-1826) becomes Minister to France and John Adams (1735-1826) becomes Minister to Great Britain. | InventionsChlorine bleach is invented. InventionsThe steam-powered loom is invented. | EducationThe London Society for the Establishment of Sunday Schools is founded. EducationPublic Education: The Northwest Ordinance stimulates the establishment of public schools through land grants by stipulating that certain amounts of land must be set aside for public education purposes.IdeasHot Air Balloons: Philip Freneau (1752-1832) suggests that hot air balloons could be used to travel to other planets. | Adams, AbigailAbigail Adams (1744-1818) continues as a diplomatic wife in London when John (1735-1826) is appointed the first U.S. minister to Great Britain. | EconomicsAmerican Money: The dollar becomes the official currency of the United States. EconomicsAnn Timothy holds the post Printer to the State of South Carolina. EconomicsTransportation: Regular stagecoach routes linking New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia begin operations. | Popular CultureHot Air Balloons: The first hot air balloon flight across the English Channel takes place. | Social IssuesSlavery: New York passes a gradual emancipation law, prohibits the importation of slaves, and allows masters to manumit slaves without posting bonds.Social IssuesSlavery: Virginia deems any person with black blood to be a mulatto and declares that the use of the term Negro is understood to include mulattos. |
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1786 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
| ScienceGerman chemist M. H. Klaproth (1743-1817) discovers uranium. MedicineBenjamin Rush (1745-1813) suggests that some illnesses may be psychosomatic. MedicinePennsylvania Hospital opens an outpatient dispensary, a forerunner of free clinics. InventionsAmerican inventor James Rumsey (c.1743-1792), designs the first mechanically driven boat. | EducationEducation of Women: A government boarding school for girls is founded in Vienna for the education of teachers and governesses. EducationMuseums: The Philadelphia Museum is founded by Charles Wilson Peale (1741-1827).Arts and LettersPoetry: Robert Burns (1759-1796) publishes "Poems, chiefly in the Scottish dialect." Arts and LettersOpera: Mozart’s (1756-1791) "The Marriage of Figaro" is produced in Vienna. | Monroe, ElizabethElizabeth Kortright (1768-1830) marries James Monroe (1738-1851) in February when she is seventeen.Monroe, ElizabethEliza Kortright Monroe (1786-1835), daughter of President James Monroe and Elizabeth Monroe, is born. | EconomicsDebt-ridden farmers in western Massachusetts, led by Daniel Shays (c.1745-1825), revolt against the state government, protesting high taxes, shortage of money, and insistent creditors. Shays’ Rebellion is crushed in 1787. EconomicsThe first ice cream is made commercially in New York City. | Sports Golf: The Charleston, NC Golf Club is established. Sports Mt. Blanc in the Alps is climbed for the first time. | ReligionA collection of sacred music for schools is the first book in the U.S. published with moveable type. ReligionThe Religious Freedom Act abolishes religious tests for voting in Virginia.Social IssuesNative Americans: The U.S. establishes first Native American reservation and policy of dealing with each tribe as an independent nation. |
1787 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsA constitutional convention meets in Philadelphia to frame a Constitution; the Constitution of the U.S. is signed. GovernmentNew State: Delaware ratifies the Constitution and becomes the 1st state in the Union; Pennsylvania is 2nd state in the Union; New Jersey becomes the 3rd.GovernmentCongress enacts the Northwest Ordinance of 1787.GovernmentNational Capital: The new Constitution provides the the creation of a separate national capital, and the search for a site begins. | InventionsAmerican inventor John Fitch (1743-1798) launches a steamboat on the Delaware River. | EducationHigher Education: The College of Physicians of Philadelphia opens. EducationChildren''s Books: The first American edition of "Mother Goose Rhymes" is published by Isaiah Thomas (1749-1831Arts and LettersMozart (1756-1791) composes "Don Giovanni;" it premieres in Prague.IdeasJohn Adams (1735-1826) writes "A Defense of the Constitution of Government of the U.S.A." IdeasJames Madison (1751-1836) writes "The Vices of the Political System of the United States." | Washington, MarthaGeorge Washington (1732-1799) attends a concert given by Alexander Reinagle (c.1750-1809), finest pianist in the U.S. at the time; he later engages Reinagle to give music lessons to his daughter. | EconomicsThe first American cotton mill opens in Beverly, Massachusetts. Daily LifeOne of the first non-religious song books, A Select Collection of the Most Favorite Scots Tunes, is published in the U.S. by Alexander Rienagle. | | ReligionLucy Wright (1760-1821), successor to Ann Lee, dominates the period of the Shaker society’s greatest growth. ReligionBlack preacher Richard Allen (1760-1831) founds the African Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.ReformAbolition Movement: The Society for the Abolition of the Slave Trade is formed by British Quakers. |
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1788 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentNew State: Georgia ratifies the new Constitution and becomes the 4th state admitted to the Union; Connecticut becomes the 5th; Massachusetts is the 6th; Maryland is the 7th; South Carolina is the 8th; New Hampshire is the 9th; Virginia is the 10th; New York is the 11th.GovernmentNational Capital: New York City becomes the federal capital of the U.S.GovernmentNational Capital: Maryland and Virginia give land for a new federal capital. | ScienceThe Marquis Pierre Simon de Laplace (1749-1827) writes "Laws of the Planetary System."MedicineMobs riot in New York and Boston protesting the use of cadavers for dissection in medical schools.InventionsAndrew Meikle (1719-1811), Scottish millwright, patents a thrasher for removing husks from grain. | EducationHannah More (1745-1833) opens a school for illiterates in England and receives much opposition for educating laborers.EducationPublic Education: The Constitution gives the power to establish schools and license teachers to individual states rather than to the federal government.Ideas"The Federalist Papers" are published.IdeasEmmanuel Kant (1724-1804) writes "A Critique of Pure Reason." | Adams, AbigailAbigail (1744-1818) and John Adams (1735-1826) return to Braintree, MA from abroad.Taylor, MargaretMargaret “Peggy” Mackall Smith (1788-1852), future wife of President Zachary Taylor (1784–1850), is born in Calvert County, MD on September 21. | Economics"Northwest America," the first American ship built on the west coast, is launched.Daily LifeCrime and Punishment: Botany Bay in Australia becomes an English penal colony.Daily LifeThe first hortensia and fuchsia are imported to Europe from Peru.Daily LifeDisasters: Fire destroys more than 800 buildings in New Orleans. | | Social IssuesSlavery: New York passes a new comprehensive slave law, confirming that all current slaves are slaves for life.Social IssuesSlavery: Connecticut and Massachusetts forbid residents from participating in the slave trade. |
1789 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawThe Constitution of the United States goes into effect; the first ten amendments to the Constitution are introduced by the Congress.LawThe Federal Judiciary Act creates the Supreme Court.LawChief Justices: President George Washington (1732-1799) nominates John Jay (1745-1829) as the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court on September 24th. The Senate confirms the appointment on September 26th. After serving as Chief Justice for five years, Jay resigns from the Supreme Court on June 29, 1795. He is elected Governor of New York in 1796.PoliticsGeorge Washington (1732-1799) is elected President of the U.S., and John Adams (1735-1826)is elected Vice President. PoliticsFirst Political Parties: The Federalist Party is formed.PoliticsTammany (Hall) is founded in New York City. PoliticsPolitical buttons first appear. GovernmentNew State: North Carolina ratifies the Constitution and becomes the 12th state admitted to the Union.WarFrench Revolution: The French Revolution begins. | MedicineEdward Holyoke (1728-1829), physician, publishes life expectancy table showing the Americans live longer than Europeans. InventionsEnglishman William Jessup designs first wagons with flanged wheels. | EducationHigher Education: Georgetown University is established in what is now Washington, D.C.EducationThe first modern chemistry textbook, "Elements of Chemistry," is published by Antoine Lavoisier (1743-1794); all illustrations are provided by his wife, Marie. EducationOne of the earliest complaints about a textbook is made by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison against a geography book written by Jedidiah Morse, who object to the popular text’s characterization of the young men of Virginia, as “gamblers, cockfighters, and horse-jockies”.IdeasJeremy Bentham (1748-1832), English barrister, publishes "An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation." | Washington, MarthaMartha Washington (1731-1802) becomes the nation’s first First Lady. She does not attend her husband''''s presidential inauguration, but joins him several weeks later in New York City, the nation''s first capital.Adams, AbigailJohn Adams (1735-1826) becomes Vice President; serves two terms under George Washington.Madison, DolleyDolley Paine’s (1764-1849) father loses his business in Philadelphia and is expelled from the Pine Street Monthly Meeting for failure to pay his debts. | EconomicsChristopher Colles (c.1738-1821) publishes the first American road map. EconomicsWomen''s Firsts: Mary Katherine Goddard (1738-1816) opens a Baltimore bookstore, probably the first woman in America to do so.Daily LifeChrysanthemums are introduced to Britain from the Orient. Daily LifeHolidays: Thanksgiving Day is celebrated as a national holiday for the first time. Daily LifeMagazines: The first periodical designed for children, "The Children’s Magazine," is published in Hartford, CT. | | ReformAbolition Movement: The Maryland Society for Promoting the Abolition of Slavery and the Relief of Free Negroes and Others Unlawfully Held in Bondage is founded.ReformTemperance Movement: The first organized temperance group is formed by 200 farmers in Connecticut, who pledge not to drink alcoholic beverages during farming season. |
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1790 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawThe first session of the Supreme Court takes place. GovernmentThe Copyright Act is passed with the help of Noah Webster.GovernmentCongress gives George Washington (1732-1799) the power to choose the site for the new capitol.GovernmentU.S. President George Washington (1732-1799) delivers the first State of the Union address. GovernmentNew State: Rhode Island becomes the 13th state to ratify the Constitution and join the United States.GovernmentPresidents: John Tyler (1790-1862), 10th President of the U.S., is born in Greenway, Virginia. | MedicineSamuel Hahnemann (1755-1843) rages against the prevalent practice of bloodletting as a universal cure and founds homeopathy.InventionsA foot-powered dental drill is invented by John Greenwood (1760-1819). | EducationEducation of Women: Catherine Macaulay’s (1731-1791) "Letters on Education" influences Mary Wollstonecraft’s thinking in "A Vindication of the Rights of Women" (1792). EducationPublic Education: Pennsylvania state constitution calls for free public education but only for poor children. It is expected that rich people will pay for their children's schooling. | Washington, MarthaThe Washingtons move to Philadelphia when the capital does.Madison, DolleyDolley Payne (1764-1849) marries John Todd, Jr., a Quaker lawyer, on January 7.Tyler, LetitiaLetitia Christian (1790-1842), first wife of President John Tyler (1790–1862), is born on her family''''s plantation, Cedar Grove, in Virginia on November 12. | EconomicsThe first American steam-powered cotton-processing machines are built, marking the beginning of the Industrial Revolution in the U.S. EconomicsPopulation: The first national census shows the American population at 4 million—about 25% in New England, 25% in the Middle States, and 50% in the South. | | ReligionThe first Roman Catholic bishop consecrated in America is John Carroll (1735-1815) of Baltimore. ReligionWomen’s Firsts: Mother Bernardina Matthews (1732-1800) establishes a Carmelite convent near Port Tobacco, Maryland, and the first community of Roman Catholic nuns in the Thirteen Colonies. ReligionThe first Roman Catholic Bible is published in the U.S. by Mathew Carey. Social IssuesImmigration: The federal government requires two years of residency for naturalization.Social IssuesSlavery: The First United States Census reveals that nearly 700,000 slaves live and toil in a nation of 3.9 million people.Social IssuesSlavery: Congress denies naturalization to anyone who is not a free white.Social IssuesSlavery: Congress advocates the expansion of slavery into the Southwest.ReformWomen''s Rights Movement: French philosopher Condorcet (1743-1794) writes "On the Admission of Women to Citizens’ Rights." |
1791 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThe first ten amendments of the U.S. Constitution (Bill of Rights) are ratified and become known as the Bill of Rights. GovernmentCongress passes the first internal revenue law, a tax of 20 to 30 cents on a gallon of distilled spirits. GovernmentNew State: Vermont becomes the 14th state in the U.S., ending 14 years as a republic. GovernmentNational Capital: The design of Washington, DC is developed by Pierre-Charles L’Enfant (1754-1825); President Washington (1732-1799) chooses a site along the Potomic River for the federal district; Congress names it the Territory of Columbia and the capital the City of Washington.
GovernmentPresidents: James Buchanan (1791-1868), 15th President of the U.S., is born April 23 in Cove Gap (near Mercersburg), Pennsylvania. | ScienceM.H. Klaproth (1743-1817) names the element titanium. | EducationHigher Education: The Philadelphia Academy becomes the University of Pennsylvania.Arts and LettersOpera: The first performance of Mozart’s (1756-1791) "Magic Flute" takes place in Vienna. Arts and LettersThe first opera house in the U.S. opens in New Orleans.IdeasThomas Paine (1737-1806) writes "The Rights of Man, Part I" in defense of the French Revolution. | Madison, DolleyDolley Payne Todd’s father, John Payne, dies; her mother opens a boarding house in Philadelphia.Jackson, RachelRachel Donelson Robards (1767-1828) marries Andrew Jackson )1767-1845) in New Orleans. | EconomicsThe first successful sugar refinery is opened in New Orleans. EconomicsAmerican Money: After adoption of the Constitution in 1789, Congress charters the First Bank of the United States until 1811 and authorizes it to issue paper bank notes to eliminate confusion and simplify trade. Daily LifeNewspapers: The ratification of the Bill of Rights at last guarantees the freedom of the press, and America's newspapers begin to take on a central role in national affairs.Daily LifeDancing: The waltz becomes fashionable in England. | | ReformWomen''s Rights Movement: The first French feminist magazine, Etrennes nationales des dames is founded on the principle that “women are equal to men in rights and in pleasure.” ReformWomen's Rights Movement: Etta Palm d’Aelders (1743-1799) speaks before the French National Assembly, promoting equal education for girls and equal rights for women. |
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1792 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsFirst Political Parties: The Democratic-Republican Party is formed under Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826). PoliticsGeorge Washington (1732-1799) and John Adams (1735-1826) are re-elected President and Vice President of the U.S. GovernmentNational Capital: The cornerstone of the White House is laid.GovernmentA U.S. mint is established in Philadelphia. GovernmentNew State: Kentucky becomes the 15th state in the U.S. WarCongress passes a national conscription act to require “each and every free able-bodied white male citizen of the republic” to serve in the U.S. militia. WarSlavery: Congress excludes blacks from military service. | | Arts and LettersLudwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) begins studying with Franz Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) in Vienna. Arts and LettersArchitecture: Irish-American architect James Hoban (1762-1831) begins to build the White House in Washington, DC. Arts and LettersWomen’s Firsts: Dance: Suzanne Vaillande (1778-1826) appears in "The Bird Catcher," in New York, the first ballet presented in the U.S. She was also probably the first woman to work as a choreographer and set designer in the United States.IdeasThomas Paine (1737-1806) writes "The Rights of Man, Part II."IdeasEducation of Women: Mary Wollstonecraft (1759-1797) writes "A Vindication of the Rights of Women." | Madison, DolleyDolley and John Todd, Jr. have a son, John Payne Todd (1792-1852) on February 29. He was later adopted by James Madison after Dolley and Madison were married. | EconomicsTwenty-four merchants meet on what is now Wall Street, signing the Buttonwood Agreement, creating the New York Stock Exchange. EconomicsAmerican Money: The federal monetary system is established with the creation of the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia, and dollar coins are minted for the first time in the U.S. DiscoveryThe Columbia River is discovered by Captain Robert Gray (1755-1806). | Popular CultureThe French national anthem, "La Marseillaise," is composed by Claude-Joseph Rouget de Lisle (1760-1836). | ReligionThe Baptist Missionary Society is founded in London. ReformWomen''s Rights Movement: Judith Sargent Murray (1751-1820) begins a series of essays titled "The Gleaner.” |
1793 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentNational Capital: The cornerstone of the Capital Building is laid by President Washington (1732-1799).GovernmentGeorge Washington (1732-1799) and John Adams (1735-1826) are inaugurated as President and Vice President of the U.S. GovernmentSlavery: The Fugitive Slave Act compels escaped slaves to be returned to their masters.WarFrench Revolution: The Reign of Terror begins. | ScienceJean-Baptiste Lamarck (1744-1829) links fossils with similar living organisms. MedicineEpidemics: Yellow fever kills 5,000 people in Philadelphia. InventionsEli Whitney (1765-1825) invents the cotton gin. InventionsFrench engineer Claude Chappe (1763-1805) invents the mechanical semaphore. InventionsWomen's Firsts: Mrs. Samuel Slater obtains the first patent given to a woman in the U.S. for a method of producing cotton thread. | EducationAfrican American Education: Katy Ferguson (c.1774-1854), an ex-slave, founds her school for the poor in New York City; students include 28 Black children and 20 white children. EducationHigher Education: African American Education: Lucy Terry Prince (1724-1821) defends her son’s admission to Williams College, eloquently presenting African-American people’s desire for an education. Arts and LettersThe Louvre in Paris becomes a national art gallery. Arts and LettersPoetry: William Wordsworth (1770-1850) publishes his first poems. | Madison, DolleyA second son, William Temple Todd (1793-1793), is born to Dolley and John Todd, Jr. Several months later, an epidemic of yellow fever takes the life of this baby, as well as that of his father and his paternal grandparents. | EconomicsAmerican Money: The first American coins are struck. Daily LifeThe first public zoo opens in Paris. Daily LifeFrance becomes the first country to use the metric system. | Popular CultureHot Air Balloons: French aeronaut Jean-Pierre Blanchard (1753-1809) makes the first hot air balloon flight over the North American continent. | ReligionRoman Catholicism is banned in France. |
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1794 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawThe Eleventh Amendment to the Constitution, limiting the power of the federal courts, is passed by Congress. GovernmentAmerican Flag: The Act of January 13, 1794 states that15 stripes and 15 stars will be added to the flag after May 1795. WarThe U.S. Navy is established. | ScienceErasmus Darwin (1731-1802), English physician, suggests the theory of evolution 50 years before his grandson, Charles Darwin (1809-1882) writes his own theory. InventionsThe cotton gin is patented by Eli Whitney (1765-1825). TechnologyThe first "telegraph"--a visual semaphore system--is developed by Claude Chappe (1763-1805) and established between Paris and Lille in France. | EducationTeacher Education: The Ecole Normale is founded in Paris to educate teachers. EducationHigher Education: The world’s first technical college, the Ecole Polytechnique, opens in Paris.Education"Elements of Geometry," by French mathematician Adrien-Marie Legendre (1752-1833) becomes the standard geometry text in Europe and North America. IdeasThomas Paine (1737-1806) writes "The Age of Reason." | Madison, DolleyDolley Payne Todd (1764-1849) is introduced to James Madison (1751-1836) by Aaron Burr (1756-1836) Madison and Dolley Todd are married on September 15 at her sister's estate in what is now West Virginia. Mrs. Madison is disavowed by the Quakers. Jackson, RachelRachel (1767-1828) and Andrew Jackson (1767-1845) marry a second time in Nashville on January 17. | EconomicsThe “Whiskey Rebellion”—a protest over the excise tax place on liquor--occurs in Pennsylvania. Daily LifeDuncan Phyfe (c.1768-1854), a cabinetmaker in New York, brings the elegant Sheraton and Regency furniture styles to the U.S. Daily LifePostal rates are usually paid by the person receiving the mail; amount is set by length of distance the mail travels. Daily LifeFashion: Men no longer powder their hair. | Popular CultureThe song, "Auld Lang Syne" is published; it was written by Robert Burns (1759-1796) in 1781. | |
1795 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawChief Justices: President George Washington (1732-1799) nominates John Rutledge (1739-1800) as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. He serves in that position as a recess appointee for four months, but the Senate refuses to confirm him.LawThe Eleventh Amendment to the Constitution, limiting the power of the federal courts, is ratified by two-thirds of the states and added to the Constitution.GovernmentThe Naturalization Act establishes a five-year residence requirement for citizenship. Members of the nobility entering the U.S. must give up their titles. GovernmentThe Treaty of San Lorenzo between the U.S. and Spain draws the boundary with Florida and gives the U.S. the right to navigate the Mississippi River. GovernmentPresidents: James Knox Polk, 11th President of the U.S., is born in Mecklanburg County, North Carolina. | ScienceMartin H. Klaproth (1743-1817) names the element titanium.InventionsRobert Fulton (1765-1815) patents the first power-shovel for digging canals.TechnologyFrancois Appert (1750-1841) designs a preserving jar for foods. | EducationHigher Education: The University of North Carolina, the first state university in the U.S., accepts its first student, Hinton James.EducationPublic Education: Connecticut sells its land in the Western territories for $1.2 million and uses the proceeds to establish a permanent school fund.Arts and LettersThe American Academy of Fine Arts holds its first exhibition in Philadelphia. | | EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: The first horse-drawn railroad appears in England. EconomicsThe metric system is officially adopted in France.Daily LifeWomen’s Firsts: Anne Parrish establishes, in Philadelphia, the House of Industry, the first charitable organization for women in America. | | ReligionFreedom of worship is declared in France. ReformLabor Movement: The Federal Society of Journeymen Cordwainers (shoemakers) is founded, one of the earliest unions in the U.S. |
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1796 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawChief Justices: President George Washington (1732-1799) nominates Oliver Ellsworth (1745-1807)as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. He is immediately confirmed by the Senate as remains as Chief Justice until his resignation in 1800.PoliticsGeorge Washington (1732-1826) refuses a third term, warns against the dangers of foreign entanglements.PoliticsJohn Adams (1735-1826)and Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) are elected President and Vice-President.GovernmentNew State: Tennessee becomes the 16th state in the U.S. | ScienceHorace de Saussure (1740-1799) coins the term geology in his work Travels in the Alps.MedicineEnglish physician Edward Jenner (1749-1823) introduces vaccination against smallpox.TechnologyJames Finley (1768-1822) builds America’s first suspension bridge across Jacob’s Creek in Westmoreland, Pennsylvania. TechnologyBattery Technology: From 1796 - 1799, Alessandro Volta (1745 – 1827) experimented with zinc and silver plates to produce electric currents at the Pavia University. Volta stacked the two to form a "pile", the first "dry" battery. | Arts and LettersLiterature: The first complete works of William Shakespeare (1564-1616) are published in the U.S. | Harrison, AnnaElizabeth "Betsey" Bassett Harrison Short (1796-1846), the oldest daughter of William Henry and Anna Harrison, is born September 29. | EconomicsZane’s Trace, which becomes one of the main routes traveled by migrants to the west, begins construction. Daily LifeThe elephant is brought to the United States from India. | Sports Billiards is a popular game in the South. | |
1797 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
Government John Adams (1735-1826) and Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) are inaugurated as President and Vice-President of the United States.
GovernmentTennessee Senator William Blount (1749-1800) becomes the first senator to be impeached.WarThe U.S.S. Constitution, “Old Ironsides,” is launched in Boston Harbor. | MedicineThe Royal Society in England rejects Edward Jenner’s (1749-1823) smallpox vaccination technique. TechnologyA washing machine is patented by Nathaniel Briggs.TechnologyAmerica’s first iron plow is patented by Charles Newbold, amid rumors that the iron would poison the soil and increase weeds. TechnologyThe vacuum bottle is designed. | | Washington, MarthaMartha (1731-1802) and George (1732-1799) Washington retire to their home at Mount Vernon. Martha wrote to a friend, “The General and I feel like children just released from school.”Madison, DolleyJames (1751-1836) and Dolley Madison (1764-1849) move from Philadelphia to their home at Montpelier, in Orange County, the Virginia piedmont. | EconomicsOne pound notes are issued for the first time by the Bank of England. | Sports Hot Air Balloons: The first parachute jump from a balloon is made by Andre-Jacques Garnerin (1770-1823). | ReligionAnn Griffiths (1776-1805) joins the Methodists and begins composing hymns for them. ReligionThe Pocket Hymn Book, containing words but not music, is published; it is widely used at revival camp meetings. |
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1798 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThe Federalist majority in Congress adds nine years to the requirement for citizenship. GovernmentCongress passes the Alien and Sedition Acts, permitting the arrest and deportation of any “dangerous” alien and restricting political opposition.GovernmentThe U.S. Public Health Service and the U.S. Marine Hospital is authorized. | ScienceLouis Nicholas Vauquelin (1763-1829) discovers the element beryllium.MedicineEpidemics: A yellow fever epidemic kills over 2,000 people in Philadelphia. MedicineThe English dermatologist, Robert Willan (1757 ~ 1812) recognizes psoriasis as an independent disease.InventionsGerman inventor Aloys Senefelder (1771-1834) invents lithography. InventionsEli Whitney (1765-1825) invents a milling machine. InventionsRobert Fulton (1765-1815) invents a four-man, hand-operated submarine. | EducationHannah More (1745-1833) is forced to close her school for working-class children on a trumped-up charge of being an unregistered meeting place for Dissenters. Arts and LettersPoetry: "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" is published by Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834). IdeasThomas R. Malthus (1766-1834) writes his "Essay on the Principle of Population." | Harrison, AnnaJohn Cleves Symmes Harrison (1798-1830), son of William Henry and Anna Harrison, is born October 28.Fillmore, AbigailAbigail Powers (1798-1853), future wife of President Millard Fillmore (1800–1874), is born in Stillwater, New York, on March 13. She is the fourth of ten First Ladies born in New York, the "mother state" of presidential wives. | | Popular CultureJoseph Hopkinson (1770-1842) writes the patriotic song, “Hail Columbia.” | ReligionCatholic women forced to do penance for kindling Sabbath fire for Jews. |
1799 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsThe first U.S. printed ballots were authorized in Pannsylvania.GovernmentCongress standardizes U.S. weights and measures.GovernmentGracie Mansion, home of New York City mayors, is completed. | ScienceThe Rosetta Stone is found near Rosetta, Egypt; when it is translated, it makes the deciphering of Egyptian hieroglyphics possible. TechnologyAirplanes: Sir George Cayley (1773-1857), a baronet in Yorkshire, near Scarborough, England, conceives a craft with stationary wings to provide lift and "flappers" to provide thrust. It also has a movable tail to provide control. | EducationJohann Heinrich Pestalozzi (1746-1827) opens his school in Burgdorf, Switzerland. EducationA 14-year-old boy graduates from Rhode Island College. Such ability among children is not uncommon; infants of 3 are sometimes taught to read Latin as soon as they are taught English. | Washington, MarthaGeorge Washington (1732-1799), first President of the U.S., dies of a throat infection at his home at Mount Vernon.Monroe, ElizabethJ.S Monroe (1799-1801), the only son of President James Monroe and Elizabeth Monroe, is born. | EconomicsAlexander Hamilton (1755-1804) describes American industry in "Report on the Subject of Manufactures." EconomicsRussia grants the Russian-American Company a monopoly of trade in Alaska.DiscoveryA perfectly preserved mammoth is found in Siberia. Daily LifeThe metric system is established in France. | | Social IssuesSlavery: Virginia banishes white mothers of mulattos with their children.ReformLabor Movement: The first recorded use of the term scabs, used to refer to those who take the place of striking workers, occurs during a Philadelphia shoemakers’ strike. |
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1800 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsThomas Jefferson (1743-1826) is elected the 3rd President of the U.S. and Aaron Burr (1756-1836) is elected the 3rd Vice President.GovernmentNational Capital: Washington, DC is established as the capital of the United States; Congress meets there for the first time.GovernmentThe U.S. Congress passes the first bankruptcy law; founding father Robert Morris is released from debtors’ prison. GovernmentSpain cedes the Louisiana territory to France.GovernmentCongress divides the Northwest Territory into two territories, Indiana and Ohio. GovernmentPresidents: Millard Fillmore (1800-1874), 13th President of the U.S., is born in Locke Township (now Summerhill), New York. | ScienceWilliam Herschel (1738-1822) discovers infrared light. MedicineBenjamin Waterhouse (1754-1846) gives the first smallpox vaccination in the U.S. to his son. MedicineHumphry Davy (1778-1829) announces the anaesthetic properties of nitrous oxide.InventionsRailroad History: Oliver Evans (1755-1819), an American, creates the earliest successful non-condensing high pressure stationary steam-engineInventionsAlessandro Volta (1745-1827) invents the electric battery. InventionsAn iron-framed printing press is invented by Charles Stanhope (1753-1816), thus allowing large sheet printing. TechnologyBattery Technology: By 1800 Volta (1745-1827) had created the "crown of cups", a modified arrangement of zinc and silver discs dipped in a salt solution. | EducationLibraries: The Library of Congress is proposed by John Adams. Arts and LettersPoetry: William Wordsworth (1770-1850) begins the period known as European Romanticism. Arts and LettersParson Weems (1759-1825) writes "The Life of Washington," creating a number of myths about the first American president. Arts and LettersC.B. Brown (1771-1810) publishes "Arthur Mervyn," a realistic description of the yellow fever epidemic in Philadelphia that took the lives of Dolley Madison’s husband and infant son. | Adams, AbigailJohn Adams (1735-1826) and Abigail Adams (1744-1818) are the first U.S. President and First Lady to actually live in the new capital, Washington, DC. Abigal is also the first wife of a president to live in the White House. Adams, AbigailCharles Adams (1770-1800), son of Abigail and John Adams, dies at age 30 of cirrhosis of the liver.Harrison, AnnaLucy Singleton Harrison Este (1800-1826), daughter of William Henry and Anna Harrison, is born in September. Fillmore, AbigailAbigail Powers' (1898-1853) father, a Baptist minister named Lemuel Powers, dies when she is two. | EconomicsPopulation: The population of Washington, DC is 2,464 free citizens and 623 slaves.EconomicsPopulation: The second national census puts the U.S. population at 5.3 million, including more than 800,000 slaves. EconomicsWilliam Young of Philadelphia is the first American shoemaker to make different shoes for the left and right feet. Daily LifeFireboats are in use in New York harbor. | Sports Boxing: Bill Richmond (1763-1829), a former slave, becomes one of the first popular boxers. Popular CultureMount Vernon Gardens becomes the site of the first summer theatre in the U.S.Popular CultureU.S. Marine Band gives its first concert near the future site of the Lincoln Memorial. | ReligionJohn Chapman (1774-1845) (Johnny Appleseed) begins spreading religious tracts and apple seeds in pioneer communities in the midwest.ReligionThe Church of the United Brethren in Christ is founded in the U.S.ReligionThe Boston Female Society for Missionary Purposes is founded to fund the education of missionaries, initially male, but later also female.Social IssuesSlavery: A slave named Gabriel Prosser (1775-1800), believing himself called by God, organizes a plot to kill all whites in Virginia, sparing only Quakers, Methodists, and French. The conspirators meet under the pretense of holding religious meetings. ReformElizabeth Peck Perkins (1735?-1807) founds the Boston Female Asylum, the first charitable institution for women there.ReformUtopian Movement: Robert Owen (1771-1858) takes over New Lanark mills in Scotland and begins social reforms there. |
1801 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawChief Justices: President John Adams (1735-1826) nominates John Marshall (1755-1835) as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. He serves for 34 years, longer than any other Chief Justice. GovernmentGreat Britain and Ireland unite, creating the United Kingdom; its flag is the Union Jack. GovernmentThomas Jefferson (1743-1826) and Aaron Burr (1756-1836) are inaugurated as the 3rd President and Vice President of the U.S.
GovernmentThomas Jefferson (1743-1826) presents his first annual message to Congress in writing.GovernmentNational Capital: Congress takes jurisdiction over the District of Columbia.WarNorth African War: The North African state of Tripoli declares war on the United States to compel the young nation to pay tribute to commerce-raiding Arab corsairs. | ScienceThe first asteroid is discovered by Italian monk and professor of astronomy Giussepe Piazzi (1746-1826). ScienceJ.J. Lalande (1732-1807) catalogues 47,300 stars. ScienceLamarck (1744-1829) develops a classification system for invertebrate animals. InventionsRobert Fulton (1765-1815), civil engineer, produces the first submarine, “Nautilis.” InventionsRichard Trevithick (1771-1833) invents the first steam powered locomotive (designed for roads). | EducationCatholic Education: The first Roman Catholic school in New York is established.EducationLibraries: The Library of Congress is established by a vote of the Congress.EducationThe Royal College of Surgeons is founded in London.Arts and LettersIn France Napoleon opened the Louvre to the public.IdeasGerman philosopher Friedrich von Schelling (1755-1829) writes "System of Transcendental Idealism," a treatise on the philosophy of nature, which influences the development of Romanticism in Europe. | Adams, AbigailJohn (1735-1826) and Abigail (1744-1818) Adams retire to Braintree.Madison, DolleyJames Madison (1751-1836) becomes Secretary of State and the Madisons move to the new capital, Washington, DC. Dolley Madison (1768-1849) finds herself a social leader in the city. Madison, DolleyDolley Madison (1768-1849) becomes an unofficial White House hostess for Jefferson, whose wife, Martha, died in 1782. Madison, DolleyJames Madison’s father dies; Madison inherits Montpelier.Monroe, ElizabethJ.S Monroe (1799-1801), the only son of President James Monroe and Elizabeth Monroe, dies on September 28 at age two. Cause of death is unknown. Adams, LouisaGeorge Washington Adams (1801-1829), son of President John Quincy Adams and Louisa Adams, is born April 12. | EconomicsGreat Britain’s first complete census finds the population at 11 million, one quarter of it urban. DiscoveryMastodon fossils are discovered on a New York farm, the first such fossils of the extinct mammal. DiscoveryLewis and Clark: Lewis (1774-1811) is asked by President Jefferson (1743-1826) to be his secretary-aide. Daily LifeNewspapers: The New York "Evening Post" is first published. | | ReligionThe “Plan of Union” permits Congregationalists and Presbyterian ministers to serve in each other’s churches, thus helping to spread Protestantism to frontier communities. ReligionCatholics are excluded from voting in the United Kingdom and Ireland. |
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1802 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentNational Capitol: Congress passes an act calling for the establishment of a library within the U.S. capitol. GovernmentGeorgia cedes her western lands to the U.S., the last of the original states to do so. WarRevolutionary War: The U.S. and Great Britain settle Revolutionary War claims for $2,664,000. | ScienceSamuel Hutton explains the natural processes involved in changes in the earth’s crust.ScienceThe role of capillaries in pumping blood is explained by Scottish physicist John Leslie. ScienceJohn Dalton (1766-1844) introduces atomic theory into chemistry. ScienceThe term “biology” is coined by German naturalist Gottfried Treviranus (1776-1837). MedicineJames Smith opens a clinic in Maryland that offers free smallpox vaccinations to the poor. | EducationHigher Education: The U.S. Military Academy at West Point is founded. EducationLibraries: The Library of Congress issues its first catalog: total holdings, 964 volumes and 9 maps. EducationLibraries: John Beckley (1757-1807) becomes the first Librarian of Congress; he is paid $2/day. IdeasEducation of Women: German feminist Amalie Holst publishes "On the Capacity of Women for Higher Education." IdeasDaniel Webster (1782-1852) writes "The Rights of Neutral Nations in Time of War." | Washington, MarthaMartha Dandridge Custis Washington (1731-1802) dies of “severe fever” on May 22 at Mt. Vernon. Harrison, AnnaWilliam Henry Harrison (1802-1838), son of William Henry and Anna Harrison, is born September 3. | EconomicsMerino sheep are imported to the U.S. from Spain. DiscoveryMatthew Flinders (1744-1814) lands on a 96-mile-long island south-west of Adelaide and slaughtered 31 kangaroos for a feast. This 3rd largest island off Australia was thus named Kangaroo Island. | Sports Horse Racing: New York State prohibits public horse races, only allowing them at private jockey clubs. Popular CultureThe first comic book, "The Wasp," is published. Popular CultureThe first chess book, "Chess Made Easy," is published in Philadelphia. | Religion"The Genius of Christianity," by Chateaubriand (1768-1848), attempts to answer the attacks of the Enlightenment by stressing its role in the growth of European culture.ReformLabor Movement: The first important labor law protecting children is passed in Great Britain. |
1803 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawIn "Marbury v. Madison," the U.S. Supreme Court declares a law passed by Congress to be unconstitutional, thereby establishing the principle of judicial review.LawThe Twelfth Amendment to the Constitution, providing for separate ballots for President and Vice President, is passed by Congress.GovernmentNew State: Ohio becomes the 17th state in the U.S. on March 1.GovernmentLand from the Gulf of Mexico to the northwest, and including Louisiana and New Orleans, is purchased from France for $27 million; the U. S. Senate ratifies the Louisiana Purchase. | ScienceJohn Dalton (1766-1844) arranges the atomic elements in a periodic table for the first time. ScienceJohn James Audubon (1785-1851) does the first banding of wild American birds. MedicineA detailed description of hemophilia is published by Pennsylvania physician John C. Otto (1774-1844).MedicineGerman pharmacist Friedrich Wilhelm Adam Serturner (1783-1841) makes morphine from opium. Physicians are delighted that opium has been tamed. Morphine is lauded for its reliability and safety.InventionsRobert Fulton (1765-1815) powers a boat with steam. | EducationAlexander I of Russia (1777-1825) establishes free, universal education. EducationThe Englishman, Joseph Lancaster (1778-1838) writes "Improvements in Education as it Respects the Industrious Classes." His ideas will be known as the Lancastrian Method. EducationEducation of Women: Maria Dalle Donne (1778-1842) is appointed director of midwives at the University of Bologna, often lecturing in her own home. | Monroe, ElizabethMaria Hester Monroe Gouverneur (1803-1850), daughter of President James Monroe and Elizabeth Monroe, is born in France. She was the first presidential child to be married in the White House.Adams, LouisaJohn Adams II (1803-1834), son of President John Quincy Adams and Louisa Adams, is born on the 4th of July.Polk, SarahSarah Childress (1803-1891), future wife of James K. Polk (1795-1849) is born on a plantation near Murfreesboro, Tennessee. | EconomicsThe population of India is estimated at 200 million, about the same size as all of Europe.DiscoveryLewis and Clark: Lewis (1774-1811) is picked to be the commander of the expedition; he writes to ask William Clark (1770-1838) to join him and share command. Clark accepts.Daily LifeJane Aitkin (1764-1832), American printer, bookseller, and bookbinder, publishes the constitution of the Philadelphia Female Association. | | ReligionMissionary Peter Cartwright (1785-1872) begins 50 years of circuit riding and preaching on the American frontier. Social IssuesNative Americans: Louisiana Purchase brings a greater number of trading posts into Indian Territory.Social IssuesSlavery: Ohio is admitted to the Union as a free state.Social IssuesSlavery: Denmark becomes the first country to ban slave trade. |
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1804 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawThe Twelfth Amendment to the Constitution, providing for separate ballots for President and Vice President, is ratified by two-thirds of the states and added to the Constitution.PoliticsThomas Jefferson (1743-1826) is re-elected President of the U.S., and George Clinton (1739-1812) is elected as the 4th Vice President of the U.S.GovernmentNapoleon Bonaparte (1869-1821) is crowned Emperor of France. GovernmentPresidents: Franklin Pierce (1804-1869), 14th President of the U.S., is born in Hillsborough (now Hillsboro), New Hampshire.WarNorth African War: Barbary pirates in Tripoli seize and hold the U.S. frigate Philadelphia; Stephen Decatur (1779-1820) and a small group of men destroy it. | InventionsRailroad History: Matthew Murray of Leeds (1765-1826) , England invents a steam locomotive which runs on timber rails. This is probably the FIRST RAILROAD ENGINE. InventionsRailroad History: Richard Trevithick (1771-1833) of Cornwall builds 40 psi steam locomotive for the Welsh Penydarran Railroad.TechnologyAirplanes: Sir George Cayley (1773-1857), England, builds a miniature glider with a single wing and a movable tail mounted on a universal joint. It also has a movable weight to adjust the center of gravity. It is the first recorded fixed-wing aircraft of any size capable of flight.TechnologyJohn C. Stevens (c.1748-1838) builds a screw-driven boat. TechnologyA method of canning food is developed. TechnologyShrapnel, named after British soldier Henry Shrapnel (1761-1842), is used for the first time by the British in a war with the Dutch in Africa. | EducationLibraries: “Coonskin Libraries” come into being in Marietta, Ohio when settlers on the Ohio River barter coonskins for books from Boston merchants. EducationChildren''s Books: Ann (1782-1866) and Jane (1783-1824) Taylor of England write stories, nursery rhymes, and hymns; their best-known work is “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” EducationThe first Board of Education in New York City comes into being.Arts and LettersBeethoven’s (1770-1827) "Third Symphony" (the "Eroica") establishes the symphony as a premier form of classical music. | Madison, DolleyA portrait of Dolley Madison (1764-1849) is painted by Gilbert Stuart (1764-1849).Harrison, AnnaJohn Scott Harrison (1804-1878), son of William Henry and Anna Harrison, is born October 4.Jefferson, MarthaMary "Polly" "Maria" Jefferson Eppes (1778-1804), daughter of Thomas and Martha Jefferson, dies from childbirth complications on April 17 at the age of 25. | DiscoveryLewis and Clark: President Thomas Jefferson commissions Merriweather Lewis (1774-1809) and William Clark (1770-1838) to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and begin their journey; Sacajawea (1787-1812), the Shoshoni Indian wife of a French-Canadian trader, is one of their guides.Daily LifeThe first dahlias appear in England. Daily LifeBananas are imported from Cuba. | Sports Women in Sports: Horse Racing: The first woman jockey was Alicia Meynell of England. She first competed in a four-mile race in York, England. | Social IssuesNative Americans: The Sioux and other tribes encounter the Lewis (1774-1809) and Clark (1770- 1838) expedition.Social IssuesSlavery: Ohio passes black laws to deter runaway slaves from settling in the state.Social IssuesSlavery: In Pennsylvania, the Underground Railroad is officially established. |
1805 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThomas Jefferson (1743-1826) is inaugurated for his second term as President, and George Clinton (1739-1812) is inaugurated for his first term as Vice President. GovernmentThe Michigan Territory is created from the northern part of the Indiana Territory. WarAdmiral Horatio Nelson (1758-1805) defeats the French in the Battle of Trafalgar, making Great Britain the leading naval power in the world. | ScienceJoseph Louis Gay-Lussac (1778-1850)proves that water is composed of two parts hydrogen and one part oxygen. MedicineThe syndrome later called “shell shock” or “battle fatigue” is described by Richard Gallagher.TechnologyRockets, originally constructed by Sir William Congreave (1772-1828), are reintroduced as weapons into the British army. TechnologyThe first covered bridge is built in the U.S. over the Schuylkill River near Philadelphia. | EducationPublic Education: New York Public School Society is formed by wealthy businessmen to provide education for poor children. Schools are run on the "Lancasterian" model, in which one "master" can teach hundreds of students in a single room. The master gives a rote lesson to the older students, who then pass it down to the younger students. These schools emphasize discipline and obedience qualities that factory owners want in their workers.EducationPublic Education: New York State creates a permanent school fund.EducationJohann Pestalozzi (1746-1827) opens his school in Yverdon, Switzerland.Arts and LettersThe Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts is organized. Arts and LettersPoetry: "The Lay of the Last Minstrel," by Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832), is the first full-length narrative poem in the Romantic tradition. | | EconomicsShipping ice to Martinique in the West Indies becomes a profitable business.DiscoveryLewis and Clark: On November 24, by majority vote, the expedition decides to cross to the south side of the Columbia River to build winter quarters.DiscoveryLewis and Clark: The expedition reaches the three forks of the Missouri River, then on to Montana and the Columbia River, 20 miles from the Pacific Ocean. | Sports Women in Sports: Hot Air Balloons: Madeleine Sophie Armant Blanchard solos in the first of 67 gas-powered balloon flights. She made her living as a balloonist, was appointed official Aeronaut of the Empire by Napoleon, and toured Europe until she fell to her death in an aerial fireworks display in 1819. Sports Women in Sports: Horse Racing: Englishwoman Alicia Meynell, riding as Mrs. Thornton, defeats a leading male jockey, Buckle, in a race. Sports Boxing: Tom Cribb (1781-1848), the champion of English bare-knuckle boxers, first enters the ring. Popular CultureLudwig Achim von Arnim (1781-1831), German folklorist, publishes Des Knaben Wunderhorn, setting the stage for the work of the Brothers Grimm. | ReligionSlavery: Virginia allows slaves to accompany white masters to religious services presided over by white preachers. |
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1806 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThe abdication of Emperor Francis II (1768-1835) signals the end of the Holy Roman Empire.GovernmentHolland becomes a kingdom ruled by Louis Bonaparte (1778-1846).WarThe British seize the colony of Capetown in Africa from the French-dominated Dutch. | MedicineMorphine becomes the first drug to be isolated from a plant. TechnologyCoal gas is first used for lighting at Newport, Rhode Island. | EducationNoah Webster (1758-1843) publishes "The Compendious Dictionary of the English Language," which becomes the recognized authority on American English. The letters i and j and u and v are established as separate letters. Arts and LettersPoetry: Lord Byron (1788-1824) privately publishes "Fugitive Pieces," which is immediately suppressed by the Church of England on grounds of immorality. | Jefferson, MarthaJames Madison Randolph (1806-), the grandson of Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), is the first child born in the White House.Pierce, JaneJane Means Appleton (1806-1863), future wife of President Franklin Pierce (1804-1869), is born March 12 in Hampton, New Hampshire. Harrison, AnnaBenjamin Harrison (1806-1840), son of William Henry and Anna Harrison, is born. | DiscoveryLewis and Clark: January 4, President Jefferson welcomes a delegation of Missouri, Oto, Arikara, and Yankton Sioux chiefs who had met with Lewis (1774-1811) and Clark more than a year earlier.DiscoveryLewis and Clark: March 23, Fort Clatsop is presented to the Clatsop Indian, for which it was named, and the expedition begins the journey home.DiscoveryLewis and Clark: In the fall, Lewis (1774-1811) and Clark (1770-1838) are treated as national heroes. They return to Washington, D.C. The men receive double pay and 320 acres of land as reward, the captains get 1,600 acres. Lewis is named governor of the Louisiana Territory, Clark is made Indian agent for the West and brigadier general of the territory's militia.DiscoveryZebulon Pike (1779-1813) identifies the Colorado peak that will eventually bear his name.DiscoveryMungo Park’s (1771-1806) final Niger River expedition ends tragically when he and several other are attacked and killed by African tribesmen. | Sports Horse Racing: “Yankee” becomes the first horse to trot a mile in under 3 minutes. | |
1807 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsScandal: Aaron Burr (1756-1836), Vice President under Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), is arrested for treason for planning to invade Mexico; he is later acquitted of all charges.GovernmentIn an effort to punish Great Britian for impressing American sailors, Congress passes the Embargo Act, which prohibits American vessels from landing in any foreign port without the express authorization of the President. WarWar of 1812: The U.S. frigate "Chesapeake" fires on the British man-of-war Leopard in conflict over the impressments of sailors. | SciencePotassium and sodium are discovered by Sir Humphrey Davy (1778-1829). ScienceA huge meteor lands in Connecticut.InventionsIsaac de Rivas makes a hydrogen gas powered vehicle - first with internal combustion power, however it is a very unsuccessful design.TechnologyLondon streets are lit by gas light.TechnologyRobert Fulton’s (1765-1815) paddle steamer, the Clermont, navigates on the Hudson River. | EducationChildren''s Books: Charles (1775-1834) and Mary (1764-1847) Lamb publish "Tales from Shakespeare," a collection of children’s stories based on the plays. EducationLibraries: The Athenaeum Library is founded in Boston.Arts and LettersArchitecture: Napoleon (1769-1821) commissions the construction of the Arch de Triumphe. | Adams, LouisaCharles Frances Adams (1807-1886), son of President John Quincy Adams and Louisa Adams, is born on August 18. Van Buren, HannahAbraham Van Buren (1807-1873), son of Martin and Hannah Van Buren is born on November 27. | EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: The very first passenger train runs from Swansea to Mumbles in England on March 25th.EconomicsTransportation: The first steamboat with regular passenger service is instituted by Robert Fulton's Clermont (1765-1815).EconomicsThe manufacture of clocks with interchangeable parts is begun in Connecticut by Seth Thomas (1785-1859) and Eli Terry (1772-1852). DiscoveryZebulon Pike (1779-1813) leads first Anglo American expedition into New Mexico. He publishes account of way of life in New Mexico upon return to U.S. Daily LifeTownsend Speakman 1st sells fruit-flavored carbonated drinks in Philadelphia Daily LifeTownsend Speakman sells first fruit-flavored carbonated drinks in Philadelphia | Sports Horse Racing: The first Ascot Gold Cup in horse racing is held in England. | ReligionThe U.S. Evangelical Association, founded by Jacob Albright (1759-1808), holds its first convention.Social IssuesSlavery: England prohibits the African slave trade. ReformWomen's Suffrage Movement: New Jersey revokes the right of women to vote which it had granted in 1776. |
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1808 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
Law"The American Law Journal," America’s earliest law periodical, is published.PoliticsJames Madison (1751-1836) is elected as the 4th President of the U.S., defeating Charles Pickney; George Clinton (1739-1812)is reelected as Vice President.GovernmentPresidents: Andrew Johnson (1808-1875), 17th President of the U.S., is born December 29 in Raleigh, North Carolina.GovernmentSlavery: The United States bans slave trade that involves importing African slaves, but smuggling continues. | ScienceSir Humphrey Davy (1778-1829) discovers the elements boron and strontium.InventionsRailroad History: Trevithick (1771-1833) builds a circular railway in London's Torrington Square. Steam carriage "Catch Me Who Can" weighes 10 tons and makes 15 mph. | EducationHigher Education: Andover Theological Seminary is established. EducationEducation of Women: Catholic Education: Elizabeth Seton (1774-1821) establishes a school for girls in Baltimore, Maryland.Arts and LettersDrama: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1837) publishes the first section of his Romantic epic, "Faust," in Germany.Arts and LettersBeethoven (1770-1827) composes the "Fifth" and the "Pastoral" Symphonies. IdeasWomen''s Rights Movement: Charles Fourier’s (1772-1837) "Theory of the Four Movements" relates social progress to the progress of women toward freedom. | Madison, DolleyDolley Madison (1768-1849) accompanies her husband in his campaign for the presidency, influencing many with her charm and tact.Jackson, RachelAndrew Jackson Jr. (1808-1865), Andrew and Rachel Jackson's adopted son (he was one of the pair of twins born to a sibling of Rachel Jackson), is born and named after his new father. | EconomicsJohn Jacob Astor (1763-1848) incorporates the American Fur Company with himself as the sole stockholder.DiscoveryExtensive excavations begin at Pompeii and last until 1815. DiscoveryThe source of the Ganges River is discovered. Daily LifeNewspapers: The "Times" of London sends Henry Crabb Robinson (1775-1867) as the first war correspondent to cover Napoleon’s (1769-1821) campaign in Spain. | | ReligionNapoleon (1769-1821) abolishes the Inquisition in Spain and Italy. ReligionWomen''s Firsts: Jane Aitken (1764-1832) publishes the only Bible ever printed by a woman in the U.S. up to this date.ReligionThe first Bible Society is established in Philadelphia. |
1809 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentJames Madison (1751-1836)is inaugurated as the nation's fourth President and George Clinton is inaugurated as the continuing Vice President.GovernmentThe Illinois Territory, including what is now Wisconsin, is established.GovernmentPresidents: Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865), 16th President of the U.S. is born February 12 in Hardin (now Larue) County, Kentucky. WarIndian Wars: General William Henry Harrison (1773-1841) obtains over 3 million acres of Indian lands with the Treaty of Fort Wayne. | ScienceThe first detailed geological survey of the United States is published by William McClure.InventionsThe steamboat is patented by Robert Fulton (1765-1815).InventionsAirplanes: The first successful glider is built in England. TechnologyWomen's Firsts: The first patent given to a woman was to Mary Kies of Connecticut, for a technique for weaving straw with silk and thread. | Arts and LettersArchitecture: Neoclassicism emerges as a dominant force in British architecture with the construction of Covent Garden Theatre. | Madison, DolleyDolley Madison (1768-1849) becomes the first First Lady to attend her husband's inauguration and the first to host an inaugural ball.Adams, LouisaJohn Quincy Adams (1767-1848) is appointed American minister to Russia. Harrison, AnnaMary Symmes Harrison Thornton (1809-1842), daughter of William Henry and Anna Harrison is born January 22. | EconomicsThe U.S. resumes trade with all countries except Britain and France. EconomicsThe "Phoenix" becomes the first sea-going steamship, traveling from New York to Philadelphia. Daily LifeNewspapers: The first newspaper published west of the Mississippi River, the "Missouri Gazette," is published in St. Louis. | Sports Cricket: The first cricket club is founded in Boston. Popular CultureWashington Irving (1783-1859) writes "Rip van Winkle." | ReligionNapoleon (1769-1821) annexes the Papal States and takes Pope Pius VII prisoner.ReligionElizabeth Seton (1774-1821) founds the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph in the U.S. ReformThe African Female Benevolent Society of Newport (RI) is founded. |
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1810 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsSimon Bolivar (1783-1830) emerges as a major figure in South American politics. GovernmentChile declares its independence from Spain.WarSoutherners revolt against Spanish rule in West Florida; the U.S. annexes the area. | ScienceJohn Dalton (1766-1844) publishes "New System of Chemical Philosophy," the foundation for modern chemistry.ScienceCharles Bell’s (1744-1842) "Anatomy of the Brain," studies the difference between sensory and motor nerves.ScienceNicotine is identified and named after Jean Nicot (c.1530-1600), who sent tobacco back to France.MedicineThe first American book on pediatrics, "The Maternal Physician," is published in Philadelphia.MedicineThe field of homeopathy is founded by German physician Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843) ; it is not called by this name until 1826. TechnologyAirplanes: Sir George Cayley (1773-1857) tries three times to organize an aeronautical society to study the problem of flight, but finds little interest among scientists. | EducationYale Medical School is established. EducationParochial Education: Elizabeth Seton (1774-1821) and her community of sisters founds the first American Catholic parochial school in Emmitsburg, Maryland. EducationEducation of Women: German feminist and educator Betty Gleim publishes "On the Upbringing and Instruction of the Female Sex."Arts and LettersLiterature: Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832) writes "Lady of the Lake." Arts and LettersThe Philharmonic Society in Boston is organized by Gottlieb Graupner (1767-1836).Arts and LettersThe San Carlo Opera House is built in Naples, Italy. Arts and LettersAmerican Theatre: During this year, English stars begin to come in larger numbers to U.S. | Van Buren, HannahJohn Van Buren (1807-1873), son of Martin and Hannah Van Buren is born February 18. Johnson, ElizaEliza McCardle (1810-1876), future wife of President Andrew Johnson (1808–1875), is born October 4th in Leesburg, Tennessee. | EconomicsPopulation: The U.S. population is about 7,239,881, including 60,000 immigrants and about 1.2 million slaves; New York City becomes the largest city in the U.S. EconomicsCornelius Vanderbilt (1794-1877) founds a ferry service between New York City and Staten Island. EconomicsThe American cotton crop exceeds 175,000 bales; American cotton mills quadruple in one year to 269. | Sports The first public billiards rooms open in London. Sports Boxing: Tom Molineaux (1784-1818), a freed Virginia slave and the first unofficial heavy-weight boxing champion, is defeated in the 40th round in a match in England.Popular CultureThe first American county fair (a cattle show) is held in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. | ReligionThe Cumberland Presbytery in Kentucky is excluded from the Presbyterian Church. ReligionThe American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions is established, beginning a wide missionary effort in the U.S.Social IssuesNative Americans: The Shawnee, under Tecumseh (1768-1813), begin to establish a tribal confederacy to preserve their lands and culture.Social IssuesAbortion: Abortion is made a criminal offense in France. |
1811 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentScandal: U.S. Senator Timothy Pickering (1745-1829) becomes the first senator to be censured when he reveals confidential documents communicated by the President of the United States (John Adams).GovernmentThe Prince of Wales, later George IV (1762-1830), becomes Prince Regent of England after George III (1738-1820) is declared insane.WarIndian Wars: William Henry Harrison (1773-1841), Governor of the Indiana Territories, defeats Indians under Tecumseh (1768-1813) at Tippecanoe, IN. | ScienceIodine is isolated by French chemist Bernard Courtois (1777-1838). ScienceWilliam Herschel (1738-1822) suggests that a nebula is an early stage in the development of a galaxy.ScienceMary Anning (1799-1847), British geologist, at age 12 is involved in the finding of the first identifiable icthyosaurus and later of a plesiosaur. MedicineSir Charles Bell (1774-1842) writes "New Idea of the Anatomy of the Brain." | EducationEducation of Women: Sarah Pierce (1767-1852), founder of the Litchfield Academy, publishes "Sketches of Universal History Compiled from Several Authors: For the Use of Schools." EducationAfrican American Education: Christopher McPherson (c.1763-?) , a free African American, opens a school for other free Blacks and slaves in Richmond, Virginia. Local white citizens, not only close the school as a public nuisance, but they also send him to the Williamsburg Lunatic Asylum.Arts and LettersLiterature: Jane Austen (1775-1817) writes "Sense and Sensibility." | Adams, LouisaLouisa Catherine Adams (1811-1812), the only daughter of John Quincy and Louisa Adams, is born. Taylor, MargaretAnne Margaret Mackell Taylor Wood (1811-1875), daughter of Zachary and Margaret Taylor, is born April 9. | EconomicsWork begins on the Cumberland Road at Cumberland, Maryland; the road reaches Vandalia, Illinois in 1840, at a cost of $7 million, and becomes an important route for the westward expansion of the U.S.DiscoveryThe eastern coast of Africa is explored by English naval captain Philip Beaver.Daily LifeDisasters: Earthquakes beginning on December 16 cause the Mississippi River to flow upstream for several hours; the town of New Madrid, Missouri, is pushed into the river.
| Sports Women in Sports: Golf: On January 9, the first known women’s golf tournament is held at Musselburgh Golf Club, Scotland, among the town fishwives. Sports Competitive rowing races are popular; a race between Knickerbocker of New York City and Invincible of Long Island attracts thousands; Knickerbocker wins. | ReligionThe “Great Schism” of Welsh Protestants occurs; two thirds leave the Anglican Church. ReligionThe Presbyterian Church in the U. S. formally states its support for “pious females,” who had begun organizing independent, female-run benevolent societies to support foreign and domestic missionaries, teachers, and doctors. ReformLabor Movement: “Luddites” destroy weaving machines in North England, trying to prevent conversion from hand looms. |
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1812 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsJames Madison (1751-1836) is re-elected to a second term as President of the U.S. and Elbridge Gerry (1744-1814) is elected the nation's 5th Vice President.PoliticsThe term gerrymander is coined, meaning the practice of dividing a geographic area into voting districts in such a way that one political party is given unfair advantage in an election. The practice is named for Elbridge Gerry, who first thought of doing it, and salamander, because the original voting district resulting from the practice looked like a salamander. GovernmentNew State: Louisiana becomes the 18th state in the U.S.GovernmentGeorge Clinton (1729-1812), 4th Vice President of the United States, dies in office. He is not replaced until the general election in the fall, when Elbridge Gerry is elected.WarWar of 1812: The U.S. declares war on Britain. WarWar of 1812: The U.S. frigate Constitution, Old Ironsides, defeats the British ship Guerriere. | ScienceGeorges Couvier (1769-1832) discovers that fossils follow an increasing age sequence as one probes deeper into layers of rock and soil.MedicineBenjamin Rush (1745-1813) publishes "Medical Inquiries and Observation Upon the Diseases of the Mind."MedicinePhysician James Thatcher publishes a book about rabies.TechnologyTransportation: Transportation technology is advanced by Scotsman Henry Bell (1767-1830) with his new steamboat, the three-horsepower Comet, which sails on the River Clyde. | EducationChildren''s Books: The Brothers Grimm--Jacob (1785-1863) and Wilhelm (1786-1859)-- publish their "Fairy Tales," which include Tom Thumb, Little Red-Riding Hood, Bluebeard, Snow White, and Cinderella. Arts and LettersPoetry: Lord Byron (1788-1824) writes "Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage."Arts and LettersThe final shipment of Elgin Marbles—a group of ancient sculptures and architectural details from the Parthenon obtained from the Turks by Lord Elgin (1776-1841)—arrives in England from Greece, giving Londoners their first taste of original classical Greek art.IdeasGerman philosopher Georg Wilhelm Hegel (1770-1831) publishes "Die Objektive Logik." | Madison, DolleyWhite House Wedding: At the first wedding in the White House, Dolley Madison's (1768-1849) widowed sister, Lucy Payne Washington (1777?-1846), is married to Supreme Court Justice Thomas Todd.Adams, LouisaLouisa Catherine Adams (1811-1812), the only daughter of John Quincy and Louisa Adams, dies in St. Petersburg, Russia.Van Buren, HannahMartin Van Buren (1812-1855), son of Martin and Hannah Van Buren, is born December 20.Harrison, AnnaCarter Bassett Harrison (1812-1839), son of William Henry and Anna Harrison, is born October 26. | EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: The first commercially successful steam locomotives, using the Blenkinsop rack and pinion drive, commenced operation on the Middleton Railway. EconomicsThe City Bank of New York opens, the forerunner of today’s Citibank. EconomicsTransportation: The first steamboat to sail down the Mississippi River reaches New Orleans in January.EconomicsLarge-scale drug production begins in Philadelphia.EconomicsThe manufacture of lead pencils begins.DiscoverySwiss historian J.L. Burckhardt (1773-1825) discovers the Great Temple at Abu Simbel in Egypt.DiscoveryLewis and Clark: On December 20th Sacagawea (1790-1812/1884) dies at Fort Manuel. Clark (1770-1838), who is in St. Louis, assumes custody of Jean Baptiste, as well as her daughter, Lisette. | Popular CultureThe present Drury Lane Theatre in London is built. | ReligionElizabeth Seton (1774-1821) formally establishes the Sisters of Charity, the first Catholic sisterhood founded in America, from her earlier community (1809).ReligionWomen''s Firsts: Ann Nancy Hesseltine Judson and Harriet Newell are the first two American women sent abroad as missionaries.ReligionMother Catherine Spaulding (1793-1858) founds the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, Kentucky, a home-visiting order of nurses and teachers. |
1813 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentJames Madison (1751-1836) is inaugurated to a second term as President of the U.S. and Elbridge Gerry (1744-1814) is inaugurated as the nation's 5th Vice President.WarWar of 1812: U.S. forces capture York (now Toronto); the British seize Fort Niagara and burn Buffalo, NY; the British blockade coastal ports.WarWar of 1812: The Battle of Lake Erie (under Captain Oliver Hazard Perry) and the Battle of the Thames (Ontario) provide two victories for the Americans. | InventionsRailroad History: Englishman William Hedley (1773-1843) builds and patents a railroad locomotive which can haul 10 coal wagons at 5 mph, equal to 10 horses.InventionsJ.F. Hummel patents rubber. | EducationHigher Education: Colby College in Maine is founded. EducationHigher Education: McGill University in Montreal, Canada, is founded. Arts and LettersThe London Philharmonic Society is founded. Arts and LettersPoetry: Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792-1827) completes his first major work, "Queen Mab"—an anti-religious work, at the age of 21.Arts and LettersLiterature: Jane Austen (1775-1817) writes "Pride and Prejudice." | Adams, AbigailNabby Adams Smith (1765-1813), daughter of Abigail and John Adams, dies on August 15, of cancer.Madison, DolleyDolley Madison (1764-1849) serves ice cream for the first time in the White House at the second Inaugural Ball. Harrison, AnnaAnna Tuthill Harrison Taylor (1813-1845), daughter of William Henry and Anna Harrison, is born October 28. | EconomicsFrancis Cabot Lowell (1775-1817) first employs young women workers to work at the spinning frames and looms at his mill in Waltham, Massachusetts; living in boardinghouses established by Lowell, they became the first large-scale women’s labor force in America.Daily LifeNewspapers: An editorial in the Troy (NY) Post first uses the nickname, “Uncle Sam,” as a symbolic reference to the United States.Daily LifeThe Grand Freemason Lodge is founded in the U.S. Daily LifeDancing: The waltz becomes popular in Europe.Daily LifeThe game of craps is first introduced into New Orleans, adapted from a French dice game called “hazards.” | Popular CultureJohann Rudolf Wyss (1782-1830) completes "The Swiss Family Robinson." | ReligionThe Methodist Missionary Society is founded. ReligionA choirbook is composed for use in the Spanish missions of the southwest.ReligionAmerican nun Mother Mary Rhodes (1782-1853) founds the Sisters of Loretto in Kentucky after establishing two other communities for women west of the Allegheny Mountains.ReformLabor Movement: Leaders of the anti-technology Luddite movement in England are sentenced to hanging or deportation. |
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1814 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentElbridge Gerry, 5th Vice President of the United Sates, dies in office; he is not replaced until the election of 1816, when Daniel D. Tompkins is elected.WarNational Capital: War of 1812: The British burn the White House, the Capital, and many other buildings in Washington, DC.WarWar of 1812: The Treaty of Ghent ends the British-American War on December 24. The Treaty returned conditions between the two countries to those that existed before the war began. Neither side achieved a clear victory. | ScienceMassachusetts physician Jacob Bigelow (1786-1879) publishes "Flora Bostoniensis," the standard botany manual for years.InventionsRailroad History: George Stephenson (1781-1848), British inventor, invents the first steam locomotive, which is used instead of horses and mules to haul coal.InventionsThe metronome is invented in Vienna by J.N. Maelzel (1772-1838). InventionsEli Terry (1772-1852) invents a 30-hour shelf clock that uses interchangeable parts.InventionsRailroad History: Englishman George Stephenson (1781-1841) builds Blucher, his first railway engine. Pulls 30 tons at 4 mph, but is not efficient. | EducationLibraries: Although the Library of Congress is destroyed when the British burn Washington, DC, Congress decides to start over by purchasing Thomas Jefferson’s (1743-1826) personal library.Arts and LettersFranz Schubert (1797-1828) begins composing Lieder, lyrical songs in the Romantic tradition.Arts and LettersLiterature: Jane Austen (1775-1817) publishes the novel "Mansfield Park," creating the character of Fanny Brice. | Madison, DolleyDolley Madison (1764-1849) is responsible for saving the famous Peale portrait of George Washington, hanging in the White House, and the Declaration of Independence, from the British when they invade the capital. She leaves the city just ahead of the British troops, who then burn Washington, DC. Harrison, AnnaJames Findlay Harrison (1814-1817), is the last son born to William Henry and Anna Harrison. Taylor, MargaretSarah Knox Taylor Davis (1814-1835), daughter of Zachary and Margaret Taylor, is born March 6.Fillmore, AbigailAbigail Powers (Fillmore) (1798-1853) begins teaching in New Hope at age 16. | EconomicsFrancis Cabot Lowell (1775-1817) opens the first totally mechanized factory for processing raw cotton into finished cloth.Daily LifeThe term grapefruit is used for the first time in print, perhaps because its clusters resemble those of grapes.Daily LifeGas street lamps are installed in the first neighborhood—St. Margarets, Westminster, in London.Daily LifeNewspapers: The "London Times" begins to be printed by a steam-operated press. | Popular CultureFrances Scott Key (1779-1843) writes a poem about the British bombardment of Fort McHenry in the War of 1812 called “Defense of Fort McHenry.” It is later set to music and becomes “The Star Spangled Banner.” Popular CultureChildren’s Books: Johann David Wyss (1743-1818) added religious piety to the Rousseauian influence in his "The Swiss Family Robinson"(German original 1812-1813); first edited and translated for English readers by William (1756-1836) and Mary (1797-1851) Godwin. | ReligionPope Pius VII (1740-1823) returns to Rome and restores the Inquisition. ReligionElizabeth Seton’s (1774-1821) Sisters of Charity take charge of orphanages in Philadelphia (and later, in 1817, in New York City), establishing the first Catholic orphanages in America.Social IssuesNative Americans: War of 1812: General Andrew Jackson (1767-1845) leads his troops to victory over the Creek Indians allied with Britain in the Battle of Horseshoe Bend (Alabama), thus destroying all future Creek power in the West. |
1815 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentNational Capital: The Capitol Building and the White House are rebuilt after the burning of Washington, DC.WarThe first steam warship, the U.S.S. Fulton is built.WarU.S. naval hero Stephen Decatur (1779-1820) stops attacks by Algerian pirates by threatening to bomb Algiers.WarAndrew Jackson (1767-1845) defeats the British at the Battle of New Orleans, fought two weeks after the Treaty of Ghent is signed. | ScienceSophie Germain (1776-1831) is awarded a gold medal from the Institute of France for her essay on elasticity.MedicineThe Apothecaries Act in Britain bans the practice of medicine by unqualified doctors.InventionsA harder, smoother road surface made of crushed stones is invented by John McAdam (1756-1836). InventionsDavy invents the safety lamp for miners.InventionsRailroad History: Stephenson's (1781-1841) second engine: 6 wheels and a multitubular boiler.InventionsRailroad History: Englishman Julius Griffiths patents a passenger road locomotive. | EducationLibraries: Thomas Jefferson sells his book collection to the Library of Congress after its original collection was destroyed by the British army.EducationSunday school education is promoted in Boston. EducationEducation of Women: Margaret Bryan publishes An Astronomical and Geographical Class Book for Schools based on her girls’ school lectures.Arts and LettersThe Biedermeier period in art and furniture design begins.Arts and LettersMagazines: "The North American Review" is established in Boston, soon to be the foremost literary journal in the U.S. | Tyler, LetitiaMary Tyler Jones (1815-1848), is the first daughter born to John and Letitia Christian Tyler on April 15. | EconomicsLeading imports in the United States are woolen and cotton items, sugar, and coffee. The leading export is cotton.Daily LifeTransportation: The Conestoga wagon becomes a major method of transportation, especially among those headed west.Daily LifeDancing: A French ballroom dance, the quadrille, becomes fashionable among the English aristocracy. | | ReformWomen's Rights Movement: The 1815 edition of the Brockhaus Conversations-Lexikon lays out the division of the sexes: “Man obtains, woman sustains . . . man resists fate itself and defies force, even in defeat. Woman, however, submits willingly and finds comfort and succor, even in her tears.” |
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1816 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawThe right to review state court decisions is affirmed by the Supreme Court.PoliticsJames Monroe (1758-1831) is elected 5th President of the U.S. and Daniel Tomkins (1774-1825) is elected as the nation's 6th Vice President.GovernmentNew State: Indiana becomes the 19th state in the U.S.GovernmentThe U.S. Congress passes the first protective tariffs. | ScienceThe first book on mineralogy in the U.S., "Elementary Treatise on Mineralogy and Geology," is published by Parker Cleaveland (1780-1858).MedicineEpidemics: Ireland suffers a typhus epidemic that kills about a quarter of its population.InventionsThe stethoscope is invented by French physician R. T. Laennec (1781-1826).InventionsThe kaleidoscope is invented by Sir David Brewster (1781-1868). | EducationGerman educator Friedrich Frobel (1782-1852) moves his first educational community from Griesheim to Keilau, Thuringia.EducationChildren’s Books: "A Merry Method of Making Minor Mathematicians" is published by John Harris (1820-1884); this collection of mnemonic rhymes was designed to teach the multiplication tables. Arts and LettersOpera: "The Barber of Seville," by Gioacchino Rossini (1792-1868) opens in Rome.Arts and LettersLiterature: Jane Austen (1775-1817) writes "Emma." Arts and LettersPoetry: Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792-1827) writes his first major poem, "Alastor."IdeasHegel (1770-1831) completes his "Science of Logic;" his philosophy of idealism will dominate metaphysics for 25 years. | Taylor, MargaretOctavia Pannel Taylor (1816-1820), daughter of Zachary and Margaret Taylor, is born August 16.Tyler, LetitiaRobert Tyler (1816-1877), the first son of John and Letitia Christian Tyler, is born September 9. | EconomicsAmerican Money: The second Bank of the United States is chartered for 20 years until 1836. EconomicsTransportation: Regular clipper ship service across the Atlantic begins between New York and Liverpool, England. EconomicsThe first Savings bank, The Provident Institute for Savings, is founded in Boston.Daily LifeDisasters: The summer of 1916 is unusually cold in many parts of the world due to the eruption of the Tambora volcano in Indonesia—perhaps the greatest in recorded history. In New England, there is 10 inches of snow in June 6, and half an inch of ice in Vermont and New Hampshire in July and August. It is recorded as “the year in which there was no summer.” | Sports Boxing: Jacob Hyer beats Tom Beasley in a boxing match and calls himself America’s first boxing champion. Popular CultureAnanias Davisson (1780-1857) publishes "Kentucky Harmony," a collection of music of the South and Midwest U.S. | ReligionThe American Bible Society is founded; one of its goals is to place a Bible in every American home. Social IssuesImmigration: Large numbers of British immigrants come to the United States and Canada.Social IssuesThe American Colonization Society forms—assists in repatriating free African Americans to a Liberian colony on the west coast of Africa. |
1817 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentJames Monroe (1758-1831) is inaugurated as the 5th President of the U.S. and Daniel Tomkins (1774-1825) is inaugurated as the nation's 6th Vice President.GovernmentNew State: Mississippi becomes the 20th state in the U.S. WarIndian Wars: The Seminole War begins on the border between the U.S. and Spanish Florida. | ScienceSelenium and lithium are discovered. ScienceCadmium is discovered independently by Friedrich Stromeyer (1776-1835) and Hermann (1765-1846). MedicineJames Parkinson (1755-1828) describes the degenerative disease that will carry his name. | EducationEarly frontier education is influenced by the American Tract Society which spreads religious literature by means of circuit riders.EducationPublic Education: A petition presented in the Boston Town Meeting calls for establishing of a system of free public primary schools. Main support comes from local merchants, businessmen and wealthier artisans. Many wage earners oppose it, because they don't want to pay the taxes.Arts and LettersOpera: "Cinderella," a comic opera by Gioacchino Rossini (1792-1868), is first staged in Rome.IdeasDavid Ricardo (1772-1823) promotes liberal economic theory in his "Principles of Political Economy and Taxation;" his ideas are the foundation of modern economics as a science. IdeasG.F. Hegel (1770-1831) publishes the "Encyclopedia of Philosophy." | Madison, DolleyThe Madisons retire to Montpelier, their estate in Virginia, where Dolley continues her role as hostess and helps her husband, who suffers from arthritis, by taking dictation for his correspondence. She also helps him prepare his papers for future publication. Van Buren, HannahSmith Thompson Van Buren (1817-1876), son of Martin and Hannah Van Buren is born January 16. Harrison, AnnaJames Findlay Harrison (1814-1817), the last son born to William Henry and Anna Harrison, dies. | EconomicsNative Americans: American traders began to compete with Native American tribes for the buffalo fur business. EconomicsThe U.S. begins construction of the Erie Canal between Buffalo and Albany. EconomicsThe New York Stock and Exchange Board is officially established, to be renamed the New York Stock Exchange in 1863.EconomicsJohn Jacob Astor (1763-1848) obtains a fur trade monopoly in the Mississippi Valley, founding his fortune.Daily LifeBaltimore becomes the first American city lit by gas. | Popular CultureStories of a sea serpent off the coast of Gloucester, Massachusetts tell of a creature 3 feet in diameter and from 70-100 feet long with a long tongue that shoots out of its mouth. | ReligionConstruction of the Vatican Museum begins in Rome. Social IssuesSlavery: The American Society for the Return of Negroes to Africa is founded in Richmond, Virginia; the Society first sends Negroes to Sierra Leone, then buys and establishes a neighboring area called Liberia.ReformPrison Reform: British reformer Elizabeth Fry (1780-1845) founds a prisoner’s aid society focusing on the prison conditions of women and children. |
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1818 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThe border between the U.S. and Canada is agreed to be the 49th parallel. GovernmentNew State: Illinois becomes the 21st state in the U.S. GovernmentAmerican Flag: The Act of April 4, 1818 states that 13 stripes and one star for each state will be added to the flag on the 4th of July following the admission of each new state and is signed into action by President Monroe. | ScienceF.W. Bessel (1784-1846) catalogs over 3,000 stars in his Fundamenta Astronomiae.ScienceCadmium is discovered independently by Friedrich Stromeyer (1776-1835) and Hermann (1765-1846). MedicineIodine is used as a treatment for goiter by French chemist Jean-Baptiste Dumas (1800-1884).MedicineMarie Gillain Boivin (1776-1841) publishes her gynecological-obstetrical text, "Nouveau traité des maladies de l’uterus et des annexes."InventionsA lathe for making irregularly shaped items such as gun stocks is designed. | EducationPublic Education: Boston public schools offer schooling for children as young as 4 years.Arts and LettersPoetry: Lord Byron (1788-1824) writes "Don Juan."Arts and LettersPoetry: John Keats (1795-1821) writes "Endymion."Arts and LettersLiterature: Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832) writes "The Heart of Midlothian" and "Rob Roy." Arts and LettersLiterature: Mary Godwin Shelley (1797-1851) writes "Frankenstein." Arts and LettersLiterature: Jane Austen’s (1775-1817) last two novels, "Northanger Abbey" and "Persuasion," are published after her death. | Adams, AbigailAbigail Adams (1744-1818), second First Lady of the United States, dies of typhoid fever in October while residing in Braintree, MA.Lincoln, MaryMary Todd Lincoln (1818-1882), future wife of Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865), is born on December 13 in Lexington, Kentucky. | EconomicsTransportation: Packet boat lines begin to sail between New York and Liverpool, England.DiscoveryJohn Ross (1777-1856) leads an expedition to the Arctic to discover a Northwest Passage.Daily LifeThe tin can is introduced to the United States. | Sports Horse Racing: The first professional horse racing occurs in the U.S. Popular CultureEnglishman Thomas Bowdler (1754-1825) publishes a censored version of "The Family Shakespeare"; the expression to bowlderize becomes a term for the practice of omitting vulgar words from written works. | ReligionThe lyrics for the hymn “Silent Night, Holy Night,” are written by the young curate, Joseph Mohr. |
1819 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
Law'In "McCulloch v. Maryland," the Supreme Court expands federal powers by allowing Congress to charter a bank, an act not specifically permitted by the Constitution. GovernmentFlorida is ceded to the U.S. by Spain. GovernmentNew State: Alabama becomes the 22nd state in the U.S. GovernmentThe U.S. cities of Memphis and Minneapolis are founded. | ScienceThe American Geological Society is established at Yale College in Connecticut; it disbands in 1828.ScienceElectromagnetism is discovered by Danish physicist Hans C. Oersted (1777-1851). MedicineMitscherlich discovers isomorphism. InventionsW.K. Clarkson patents the bicycle. | EducationEducation of Women: Emma Hart Willard (1787-1870) writes "An Address to the Public: Particularly to the Members of the Legislature of New York, Proposing a Plan for Improving Female Education." EducationHigher Education: Focusing on technical training, Norwich University opens in Vermont.EducationSlavery: African American Education: Virginia outlaws blacks and a mulatto, whether free or slave, from meeting for the purposes of education and forbids teaching blacks to read and write.IdeasGerman philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860) publishes "The World as Will and Idea." | Van Buren, HannahHannah Hoes Van Buren (1783-1819) dies of tuberculosis on February 5, eighteen years before her husband, Martin Van Buren, becomes President of the U.S.Tyler, LetitiaJohn Tyler Jr. (1819-1896), son of John and Letitia Tyler, is born April 27.Taylor, MargaretMargaret Smith Taylor (1819-1820), daughter of Zachary and Margaret Taylor, is born July 27.Fillmore, AbigailAbigail Powers (1798-1853) meets Millard Fillmore (1800-1874) at the Academy in New Hope, New York. | EconomicsTransportation: The very first ship to use steam as support on an Atlantic crossing was the American sailing ship Savannah who had been equipped with auxiliary steam engines geared to two paddle wheels on the ship’s sides. Because of distrust in this new mode of transportation, the vessel does not carry either passengers or cargo.
EconomicsThe Bank for Savings in New York City opens as one of the first U.S. savings banks.EconomicsThe first commercially produced eating chocolate is produced in Switzerland. DiscoveryAn expedition to the Rocky Mountains is led by explorer Stephen Long (1784-1864). | | ReligionWith roots in the Protestant Reformation and liberal New England Congregationalism, Unitarianism is founded in Boston by William Ellering Channing (1780-1842).Social IssuesImmigration: Congress establishes reporting on immigration.Social IssuesSlavery: Canada denies the American government the right to pursue runaway slaves within its borders.ReformLabor Movement: Children under the age of 9 are forbidden to work in mills in England; other young workers are limited to 12-hour days. |
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1820 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsFirst Political Parties: James Monroe (1758-1831) is re-elected to a second term as President of the U.S. on the Democratic-Republican ticket, defeating John Quincy Adams; John C. Calhoun (1782-1850) is elected the nation's 7th Vice President. GovernmentSlavery: Congress passes the Missouri Compromise, admitting Maine into the Union as a free state and Missouri as a slave state;
slavery becomes excluded from the Union north of the Mason-Dixon Line.
GovernmentThe Public Land Act lowers the cost of western lands to $1.25 an acre, in the hope of encouraging settlement of the West. GovernmentNew State: Maine becomes the 23rd state to join the Union. | ScienceAndre Marie Ampere (1775-1836), French physicist, discovers the basic processes of electric currents. MedicineThe New York Eye Infirmary is founded. InventionsAn improved plow and cultivator is invented by Henry Burden (1791-1871) of New York. | EducationMassachusetts physician John Gorham (1783-1829) publishes a 2-volume textbook, "Elements of Chemical Science," which is the standard for years.EducationPublic Education: First public high school in the U.S., Boston English, opens.Arts and LettersPoetry: John Keats (1795-1821) writes "Ode on a Grecian Urn" and "Ode to a Nightingale." Arts and LettersPoetry: Percy Bysshe Shelly (1792-1827) writes "Prometheus Unbound."Arts and LettersLiterature: Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832) publishes "Ivanhoe."IdeasThomas Malthus (1766-1834) writes "Principles of Political Economy." | Monroe, ElizabethWhite House Wedding: Elizabeth Monroe (1768-1830) is the first First Lady to have a daughter (Maria Hester Monroe) married in the White House.Tyler, JuliaJulia Gardiner (1820-1889), second wife of John Tyler (1790–1862), is born on Gardiner’s Island in New York. She is the third of ten First Ladies born in New York, the "mother state" of presidential wives.Taylor, MargaretOctavia Pannel Taylor (1816-1820), daughter of Zachary and Margaret Taylor, dies July 8 of malaria.Taylor, MargaretMargaret Smith Taylor (1819-1820), daughter of Zachary and Margaret Taylor, dies October 22 from malaria three months after the death of her sister.Fillmore, AbigailWhile teaching in New Hope, Abigail Fillmore (1798-1853) begins a campaign to raise funds for the first circulating library in New York. | EconomicsThe percentage of people working in agriculture begins to decline as family farms are gobbled up by larger agricultural businesses. At the same time, cities grow tremendously, fueled by new manufacturing industries.EconomicsA canning factory is opened in Boston by William Underwood.DiscoveryNathanial Palmer becomes the first person to actually see the land mass of Antartica. DiscoveryPlatinum is discovered in the Russian Ural Mountains.DiscoveryThe statue of the Venus de Milo (c. 150 B.C.) is discovered in Melos.DiscoveryMajor Stephen Long (1784-1864) leads an expedition from Pittsburgh, exploring the area between the Missouri River and the Rocky Mountains. | Popular CultureThe short story as a literary form is introduced by Washington Irving (1783-1859) with the publication of "The Sketch Book," which includes “Rip Van Winkle” and “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” | ReligionThe Jesuits are driven out of Rome.ReligionThe music for the hymn “Silent Night, Holy Night,” is composed by Franz Xaver Huber to words written by the young curate, Joseph Mohr. Social IssuesSlavery: 86 Blacks set sail for the British colony of Sierra Leone on the ship Mayflower of Liberia. Social IssuesSlavery: In Charleston, South Carolina, slaves are required to wear distinctive identification tags. This law is later extended to free blacks in the city as well. |
1821 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentMexico declares independence from Spain. Santa Fe Trail opened to international trade. GovernmentJames Monroe (1758-1831) is inaugurated to a second term as President of the U.S. and John C. Calhoun (1782-1850) is inaugurated as the nation's 7th Vice President. GovernmentNew State: Missouri becomes the 24th state to join the Union (as a slave state). | InventionsThe electric motor is invented by Michael Faraday (1791-1867). TechnologySound reproduction is demonstrated by Sir Charles Wheatstone (1802-1875). | EducationEducation of Women: Dorothea Dix (1802-1887) opens a dame school for young girls in Boston.EducationEducation of Women: The Troy Female Seminary is founded by Emma Hart Willard (1787-1870).EducationNative American Education: A Cherokee named Sequoyah (c.1770-1843) develops an alphabet of 86 characters, with which stories, hymns, and a Bible were printed in the Cherokee language.EducationChildren’s Books: Early Piety, or Memoirs of Childhood mixes stories such as "Of a very good girl; that died very happy before she was seven years old, with others like "the history of a sad wicked child, and his miserable death."Arts and LettersFrances Wright (1795-1852) publishes "Views of Society and Manners in America." | Tyler, LetitiaLetitia (Letty) Tyler Semple (1821-1907), daughter of John and Letitia Tyler, is born on May 11. | EconomicsPopulation: The fourth census (1820) shows that the population of the U.S. is about 9.6 million.Daily LifeTransportation: The first wagon train on the Santa Fe Trail is led by William Becknell (1788-1865).Daily LifeThe game of poker is invented by sailors in New Orleans. | Popular CultureJames Fenimore Cooper (1789-1851) publishes "The Spy," which leads him to become the first popular American novelist. | ReligionThe first Catholic cathedral to be dedicated in the U.S. is the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore.ReformBlack Suffrage Movement: Nearly all property qualifications required to vote are abolished by the New York state constitution, but the state continues to deny suffrage to Blacks.ReformAbolition Movement: Benjamin Lundy (1789-1839), Quaker saddle maker, begins publishing his anti-slavery newspaper, Genius of Universal Emancipation. |
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1822 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentPresidents: Ulysses S. Grant (1822-1885), 18th President of the U.S., is born April 27 in Point Pleasant, Ohio.GovernmentPresidents: Rutherford B. Hayes (1822-1881), 19th President of the U.S., is born October 4 in Delaware, Ohio.GovernmentFlorida is organized as a territory. | ScienceA theory of evolution, subsequently proved to be in error, is published by Jean Baptiste Lamarck (1744-1829).MedicineObservations of human gastric juices are begun by U.S. Army physician William Beaumont (1785-1853). His observations are made on a sailor who suffered a bullet wound in the stomach that did not quite heal.InventionsThe first patent for making false teeth is obtained by W.C. Graham.TechnologyGas lights are installed on the streets of Boston. | EducationHigher Education: Hobart College is founded in Geneva, NY; it offers an “English Course” designed for “the practical business of life.”Arts and LettersFranz Liszt (1811-1886), Hungarian pianist, makes his debut at age 11.Arts and LettersThe Royal Academy of Music in founded in London. Arts and LettersThe diorama, paintings illuminated in a dark room to give the illusion of reality, is invented by Daguerre and Bouton. | | EconomicsCotton mills in Massachusetts begin using water-powered machinery.DiscoveryThe Rosetta stone, found in 1799, is deciphered by French Egyptologist Jean Francois Champollion (1790-1832).Daily LifeMolly Pitcher, a.k.a. Mary McCauley (1754-1832), is awarded a pension by the state of Pennsylvania. | Sports Soccer: Yale prohibits the playing of football (soccer); violators are fined. | Social IssuesSlavery: An informer reveals a plot led by Denmark Vesey (1767-1822), a free black man, for a massive slave uprising in South Carolina. Thirty-five blacks, including Vessey, are hanged, and severely repressive slave codes are passed in the South. ReformProtest Music: “The Ballad of Major Andre” is written during the American Revolution by Major John Andre (? -1780).ReformSlavery: Liberia is founded as a colony for blacks fleeing America. |
1823 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsDaniel Webster (1782-1852) takes a seat in the House of Representatives, and Henry Clay (1777-1852) becomes Speaker of the House. GovernmentJames Monroe (1758-1831) presents his Monroe Doctrine, stating that any attempts by Europeans to interfere in the Americas will be considered an affront to the national interest of the U.S. WarIndian Wars: American troops defeat the Sauk and Fox chief Black Hawk, who has tried to prevent white settlement in the Illinois territory. | MedicineThe first ophthalmology book in the U.S., "A Treatise on the Diseases of the Eye," is published.MedicineThe British medical journal, "The Lancet," is first published. InventionsComputers: Early attempts to build a calculating machine (computer) are made by Charles Babbage (1791-1871).InventionsA waterproof fabric is invented by Charles Macintosh (1766-1843). | EducationEducation of Women: Catherine Beecher (1800-1878) founds a girls’ school in Hartford, CT. EducationTeacher Education: The first private normal school (for training teachers) in the U.S. opens in Concord, Vermont. EducationThe first gymnasium offering systematic instruction is started by the Round Hill School in Massachusetts. Gymnastics is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m.
EducationChildren''s Books: Clement Clark Moore (1779-1863) publishes "A Visit from St. Nicholas" ("‘Twas the Night Before Christmas").EducationAfrican American Education: Alexander Lucius Twilight (1795-1857) graduates from Middlebury College, making him the first black college graduate in the U.S.Arts and LettersLudwig van Beethoven (1770-1857) completes the "Missa Solemnis, Op. 123." | Tyler, LetitiaElizabeth "Lizzie" Tyler Waller (1823-1850), daughter of John and Letitia Tyler, is born July 11. | | Sports Football: Football is invented by a 17-year-old British rugby player when, against the rules of rugby, he takes up the ball and runs with it. Sports Horse Racing: The first great U.S. horse race takes place between the North and the South on Long Island; the purse is about $20,000.Popular CultureJames Fenimore Cooper (1789-1851) publishes "The Pioneers," the first of the Leatherstocking Tales. | ReformAbolition Movement: An Anti-Slavery Society is founded in England by William Wilberforce (1759-1833). |
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1824 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsJohn Quincy Adams (1767-1848) is elected as the 6th President of the U.S. by the House of Representatives when none of the four candidates achieves a majority in the national election; John C. Calhoun (1782-1850) is re-elected as Vice President.PoliticsThe world’s first public opinion poll tries to predict voting intentions for the presidential election of 1824.GovernmentThe Tariff Act of 1824 is passed by Congress in an effort to protect American industry. GovernmentNational Capital: The Capitol Rotunda is completed; it is the connecting space between the House of Representatives and the Senate sides of the building.GovernmentNative Americans: The U.S. Secretary of War establishes the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), which does not receive congressional authorization until 1934. | ScienceFrench physicist Nicholas Leonard Sadi Carnot (1796-1832) first states the principle that will become William Thompson’s (1824-1907) Second Law of Thermodynamics (energy moves from a warm to a cold body, not the reverse). | EducationEmma Willard (1787-1870) writes a widely-used textbook, "Ancient Geography."EducationThe first science and engineering school in the U.S. is founded; it is later named Renssalaer Polytechnic Institute.EducationMary Randolph (1762-1828) publishes "The Virginia Housewife," intended to instruct novice wives.EducationChildren''s Books: Dorothea Dix (1802-1887) writes a children’s book, "Conversations on Common Things."Arts and LettersThe National Gallery is London is founded. | Taylor, MargaretMary Elizabeth Taylor Bliss Dandridge (1824-1909), daughter of Zachary and Margaret Taylor, is born April 20.Lincoln, MaryMary Todd’s (1818-1882) mother dies in childbirth when she is six years old. | EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: Construction begins on the 1st locomotive workshop in New Castle, England.DiscoveryA gateway to the west through the Rocky Mountains is discovered at South Pass, WY.DiscoveryThe Great Salt Lake is discovered. | | ReligionThe Sunday School Union is founded in the United States.ReformUtopian Movement: Robert Owen (1771-1858) founds New Harmony, a utopian community in Indiana.ReformLabor Movement: The first recorded strike by women is a weaver’s strike at Pawtucket, RI. |
1825 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThe U.S. signs a treaty with Russia setting the border between Canada and Alaska.GovernmentNative Americans: Congress adopts a policy of removal of eastern Indian tribes to territory west of the Mississippi River; whites settle on Indian lands.GovernmentJohn Quincy Adams (1767-1848) is inaugurated as the 6th President of the U.S. and John C. Calhoun (1782-1850) is inaugurated as the continuing Vice President.
GovernmentNative Americans: A treaty is established between the U.S. and the Oglala branch of the Teton Sioux (Lakota) regarding fur trade, signed for the Oglala by Standing Buffalo (aka Standing Bull). | ScienceMichael Faraday (1791-1867) succeeds in isolating benzene.ScienceGeorges Couvier (1769-1832) suggests that alterations in the earth causing extinction of whole animal species are associated with great natural catastrophes.TechnologyRailroad History: Stephenson's (1781-1841) 8-ton LOCOMOTION No. 1 built for the Stockton & Darlington Railroad is capable of pulling 90 tons of coal at 15 mph. | Arts and Letters"The Diary of Samuel Pepys" is published.Arts and LettersDance: The Bolshoi Ballet is established in Moscow.IdeasEnglish philosopher John Stuart Mill (1806-1873) publishes "Analysis of the Phenomena of the Human Mind," an early work in psychology, at age 19. | Adams, LouisaLouisa Adams (1775-1852) moves into the White House with her husband, John Quincy Adams.Adams, LouisaLouisa Adams (1775-1852) becomes the first First Lady to write her autobiography, which she called "Adventures of a Nobody."Tyler, LetitiaAnne Contesse Tyler (1825), daughter of John and Letitia Tyler, is born in April and dies three months later in July.Lincoln, MaryMary Todd’s (1818-1882) father remarries—Elizabeth (Betsy) Humphreys of Frankfort, KY. | EconomicsThe Erie Canal, connecting Lake Eire and the Hudson River, opens.EconomicsThe New York Stock Exchange opens, trading mostly canal, turnpike, mining, and gas lighting companies.DiscoveryAlexander Gordon Laing (1793-1826) is the first explorer to reach Timbuktu (in what is now Mali).Daily LifeTea roses from China are introduced in Europe.Daily LifeDuncan Phyfe (1768-1854) begins producing furniture in the Empire style. | Sports Baseball: A Baseball Club is organized in Rochester, New York.Sports Horse Racing: The New York Trotting Club builds a race course on Long Island. | Social IssuesNative Americans: The Chippewa, Iowa, Potawami, Sauk and Fox, Sioux, and Winnebago tribes sign a treaty for territorial boundaries.Social IssuesNative Americans: Creek Indians reject a treaty ceding all their lands in Georgia to the U.S.ReformLabor Movement: In Boston, 600 master carpenters strike for a 10-hour day.ReformUtopian Movement: A community of slaves is organized by Frances Wright (1795-1852), designed to help them get ready for freedom. |
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1826 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsThird Parties: The first third party in the U.S., the Anti-Masonic Party, is founded. | ScienceAndré Ampere (1775-1836) publishes his "Treatise on Electrodynamics."InventionsThe first permanent photograph is produced by J.N. Niepce (1765-1833), a French scientist.InventionsSamuel Morey (1762-1843) patents an internal combustion engine.InventionsThe first reflecting telescope is built in the U.S. by Amasa Holcomb (1787-1875) in Massachusetts.InventionsBassell designs a pendulum that takes exactly one second per swing. | EducationThe American Lyceum—a mechanism for adult education—is founded. EducationThe Smithsonian Institution is founded in Washington, DC, endowed by James Smithson (1765-1829).EducationEducation of Women: The first public high schools for girls open in New York and Boston.
Arts and LettersThe U.S. Academy of Design is founded by Samuel F.B. Morse (1791-1872).Arts and LettersPoetry: Elizabeth Barrett Browning (1806-1861) publishes "Essays on Mind, with Other Poems." | Adams, AbigailJohn Adams (1735-1826), 2nd President of the U.S., dies in Braintree (now Quincy), MA.Jefferson, MarthaThomas Jefferson (1743-1826) dies on July 4 at Monticello (near Charlottsville, VA).Harrison, AnnaLucy Singleton Harrison Este (1800-1826), daughter of William Henry and Anna Harrison, dies April 7.Taylor, MargaretRichard Taylor (1826-1879), son of Zachary and Margaret Taylor, is born January 27.Fillmore, AbigailAbigail Powers (1798-1853) marries Millard Fillmore (1800-1874) on Feb. 5 in Moravia, NY.Lincoln, MaryMary Todd (1818-1882) enters the academy of Dr. John Ward; stays until she is 14.Grant, JuliaJulia Boggs Dent (1826-1902), future wife of President Ulysses S. Grant(1822–1885), is born on January 26 on her family’s plantation near St. Louis, Missouri. | EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: The first line of rails in the New England States is said to have been laid down at Quincy, Mass., 3 miles in length and pulled by horses.DiscoveryThe first overland journey to Southern California is led by Jedediah Strong Smith (1798-1831).Daily LifeNewspapers: The first issue of the "United States Telegraph" is published; it reflects an anti-John Quincy Adams (1767-1848) bias. | Popular CultureJames Fennimore Cooper (1789-1851) publishes "The Last of the Mohicans." | Social IssuesNative Americans: The Creek Indians sign the Treaty of Washington, which voids the previous treaty and cedes less land to the government; it requires the Indians to move in 1827.Social IssuesSlavery: A Pennsylvania law makes kidnapping a felony, thereby nullifying the Fugitive Slave Act of 1793.ReformTemperence Movement: The American Society for the Promotion of Temperance is founded in Boston. |
1827 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsSectional differences in the U.S. between the North and South increase over tariffs: northern industrialists are for them; southern plantation owners oppose them.GovernmentJoint occupation of the Oregon territory is agreed upon by the U.S. and Britain.WarCongress gives the President the right to call out the militia. | ScienceThe mammalian ovum (egg) is discovered, proving that mammals do develop from eggs.ScienceJohn J. Audubon (1785-1851) publishes "Birds of North America."MedicineBrights’ disease (of the kidneys) is described by English physician Richard Bright (1789-1858).InventionsThe screw propeller for ships is invented. | EducationJoanne Bethune founds the Infant School Society in New York City.EducationAfrican American Education: A letter in the Freedom Journal demands education for black women.EducationThe first nautical school in America is opened in Nantucket, Massachusetts.EducationPublic Education: Massachusetts requires every town with 500 or more families to establish a public high school.EducationPublic Education: Massachusetts passes a law making all grades of public school open to all pupils free of charge.Arts and Letters"A Midsummer Night’s Dream," by Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847), premieres. | | EconomicsTransportation: The first public transit system—horse-drawn busses—appear in New York City.EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad is chartered to run from Baltimore to the Ohio River in Virginia. It was the first westward bound railroad in America. EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: The Switch Back Gravity Railroad in Pennsylvania begins operation in May of 1827 before work begins on the B&O. It is the second railroad in the U.S.Daily LifeNewspapers: The first newspaper for blacks in the U.S., "Freedom’s Journal" is published in New York City.Daily LifeCincinnati is considered the Queen City of the west, at least for a time before the rise of Chicago.Daily LifeKarl Baedeker (1801-1859) begins publishing his travel guides.Daily LifeJohn Walker (1781-1859) introduces sulfur friction matches—called Lucifers—in England.Daily LifeHolidays: The Mardi Gras celebration begins when French-American students organize a procession of street maskers on Shrove Tuesday in New Orleans. | Sports A handbook for sportsmen, the American Shooter’s Manual, is published in Philadelphia.Popular CultureThe murder of Maria Martin in England is the inspiration for a wildly popular melodrams, Maria Martin, or The Murder in the Red Barn. | ReligionThe Second Great Awakening, an era of intense, emotional religious revivalism, makes a large impression across the country.ReformPerhaps the first organized American women’s club, the Women’s Social Society at New Harmony, is founded by Frances Wright. |
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1828 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsFirst Political Parties: The Democratic party is formed, based on Jeffersonian principles. Andrew Jackson (1767-1845) is the first nominee, and defeats John Quincy Adams (1767-1848) for the Presidency; John C. Calhoun (1782-1850) is re-elected Vice President.PoliticsThird Parties: The Working Men’s Party is founded in New York City.GovernmentRailroad History: Congress authorizes the construction of the first state-owned railway in Pennsylvania.GovernmentThe so-called Tariff of Abominations, imposing duties on manufactured goods is passed. | ScienceThe discipline of organic chemistry begins.ScienceCaroline Herschel (1750-1848) is awarded a gold medal by Britain’s Royal Astronomical Society for her catalog of nebulae.MedicineDr. Hopff first uses the term "hemophilia" in describing the blood disease.InventionsThe electromagnet is invented. | EducationEducation of Women: Zilpah Grant (1794-1874) becomes head of the Ipswitch Female Seminary, a select girls’ boarding school.EducationNoah Webster (1758-1843) publishes his "American Dictionary of the English Language," with 70,000 definitions, including many words derived from immigrant and Native American languages.EducationLibraries: The Reading Room Society, the first social library for African Americans, opens in Philadelphia.Arts and LettersFranz Schubert (1797-1828) gives his only public concert in Vienna.Arts and LettersLiterature: Alexander Dumas (pere--1802-1870) writes "The Three Musketeers." | Adams, LouisaWhite House Weddings: Louisa (1775-1852) and John Quincy Adams (1767-1848) son, John II (1803-1834), marries Mary Catherine Hellen in the White House.Jackson, RachelRachel Donelson Robards Jackson (1767-1828) dies at home on December 22 at 62. She is the first President's wife to die after her husband had been elected to office of President but before he was sworn in and she could become the First Lady.Fillmore, AbigailMillard Fillmore (1800--1874) is elected to the New York State Legislature, where he serves until 1831.Fillmore, AbigailMillard Powers Fillmore (1828-1889), son of Millard and Abigail Fillmore, is born April 25.Johnson, ElizaMartha Johnson Patterson (1828-1901), daughter of Andrew and Eliza Johnson, is born October 25. | EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: Delaware & Hudson Canal Co. builds a railroad from their mines to the termination of the canal at Honesdale. EconomicsConstruction starts on the Baltimore and Ohio railroad.Daily LifeNewspapers: The first Indian newspaper, the Cherokee Phoenix is published in Georgia.Daily LifeMagazines: Sarah Josepha Hale (1788-1879) becomes editor-publisher of the American Ladies Magazine (until 1836). | Sports The first archery club is formed in Philadelphia; members pay an initiation fee of $5.00 and $.50 dues a month.Popular CultureThomas (“Jim Crow”) Rice (1808-1860) introduces the song “Jim Crow” between acts of a play; it is the first international song hit of American popular music. | Social IssuesNative Americans: American social critic Elizabeth Sanders (1762-1851) anonymously publishes a booklet praising Indian culture and condemning its destruction by General Andrew Jackson.ReformAbolition Movement: Isabella van Wagener (c. 1797-1883) is freed from slavery and takes the name Sojourner Truth; she preaches against slavery throughout New York and New England. |
1829 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsThe practice of awarding political appointments based on party service is introduced by Andrew Jackson (1767-1845).GovernmentAndrew Jackson (1767-1848) is inaugurated as the 7th President of the U.S. and John C. Calhoun (1782-1850) is inaugurated as the continuing Vice President. | InventionsLouis Daguerre (1787-1851) invents the daguerreotype, a commonly used form of photography.InventionsThe concertina is patented by Sir Charles Wheatstone (1802-1875).InventionsAn early version of the typewriter is patented by William Austin Burt (1792-1858).TechnologyThe term “technology” is coined in a work called "Elements of Technology" by Harvard professor Jacob Bigelow., M.D. (1787-1879). | EducationSpecial Education: The Perkins Institution, the first school for the blind in the U.S. opens.EducationThe first American encyclopedia, Encyclopedia Americana ins published.EducationSpecial Education: Louis Braille (1809-1852) adapts a communication system used by the French military. EducationChildren’s Books: Ann Taylor (1782-1866) and her sister Jane (1783-1824) collaborated on several books of poems for "infant minds," chiefly but not exclusively religious poems. Ann (1782-1866) was author of "My Mother" and Jane (1783-1824) of "Twinkle, twinkle, little star." They wrote "Original Poems for Infant Minds," illustrated with woodcuts. Arts and LettersOpera: Rossini (1792-1868) completes his last major work, the opera, "William Tell."Arts and LettersFrederic Chopin (1810-1849) debuts in Vienna.Arts and LettersPoetry: Edgar Allen Poe (1809-1849) publishes his first work, "Tamerlane and Other Poems." | Adams, LouisaGeorge Washington Adams (1801-1829), son of President John Quincy Adams and Louisa Adams, dies a mysterious death on April 30. Many historians believe he committed suicide. | EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: The first steam locomotive used in America, the English-built Stourbridge Lion, is put to work on the Delaware & Hudson. EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: Peter Cooper (1791-1883) of New York in 6 weeks time builds the Tom Thumb, a vertical boiler 1.4 HP locomotive, for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. EconomicsThe first modern hotel, the Tremont, opens in Boston with 170 rooms.Daily LifeSecond Great Awakening: In part stimulated by the Second Great Awakening, crusader Sylvester Graham attacks meats, fats, catsup, mustard, pepper, and white bread as stimulating carnal appetites. | | ReligionThe Catholic Emancipation Act in Britain allows Catholics to hold public office.ReformAbolition Movement: Sarah Moore Grimké (1792-1873) publishes Epistle to the Clergy of the Southern States, in which she attacks religious rationalizations of slavery. |
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1830 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentNative Americans: The Indian Removal Act is passed enabling whites to move Indians to reservations.GovernmentAbortion: U.S. Congress makes abortion a statutory crime.GovernmentMexico bans further U.S. settlement in Texas.GovernmentPresidents: Chester A. Arthur (1830-1886), 21st President of the U.S., is born October 5 in Fairfield, Vermont. | ScienceThe cell nucleus in plants is discovered.ScienceCharles Lyell (1797-1875) organizes the geological system into three groups: eocene, miocene, and pliocene.MedicineAmerica’s first veterinarian, Charles Grice, opens an animal hospital in New York City.InventionsFrenchman, B. Thimonnier (1793-1859), invents a sewing machine. InventionsThe fountain pen is patented by H.D. Hyde of Pennsylvania. | EducationAfrican American Education: By this time, most southern states have laws forbidding teaching people in slavery to read. Even so, around 5 percent become literate at great personal risk.Arts and LettersHector Berlioz (1803-1869) writes his "Symphonie fantastique." | Monroe, ElizabethElizabeth Kortright Monroe (1768-1830), wife of James Monroe, in office 1817-1825, dies at the family home, Oak Hill, in Virginia.Harrison, AnnaJohn Cleves Symmes Harrison (1798-1830), son of William Henry and Anna Harrison, dies October 30 in the midst of political controversy.Tyler, LetitiaTazewell Tyler (1830-1874), the youngest of John and Letitia Tyler's children, is born December 6.Fillmore, AbigailThe Fillmore family moves to Buffalo; both parents are active in efforts to improve public education and establish a public library system there.Lane, HarrietHarriet Lane (1830-1903), niece of President James Buchanan (1791–1868), is born on May 9 in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Since he remained a bachelor, Harriet Lane served as his First Lady during his time in office.Johnson, ElizaCharles Johnson (1830-1863), son of Andrew and Eliza Johnson, is born February 19. | EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: The Best Friend is built at the West Point Foundery at New York for the Charlston & Hamburg Railroad. It was the first completely American-built steam engine to go into scheduled passenger service. EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: The first locomotive built in the U.S. makes its first trip on the Baltimore and Ohio railroad; it later loses a race against a horse when an engine belt slips. 0
1210 1830 12 Population: The fifth national census puts the population at 12.8 million, including about 150,000 immigrants. 0
8066 1830 12 Transportation: Railroad History: The Best Friend is built at the West Point Foundery at New York for the Charlston & Hamburg Railroad. It was the first completeEconomicsPopulation: The fifth national census puts the population at 12.8 million, including about 150,000 immigrants.Daily LifeFashion: Ladies' skirts grow shorter and sleeves and hats grow bigger; stiff collars become part of men’s dress.Daily LifeSylvester Graham invents the graham cracker, which becomes a favorite of children everywhere.Daily LifeMagazines: "Godey's Lady's Book," a magazine for women, is founded. | Popular CultureOliver Wendell Holmes (1809-1894) writes the poem, “Old Ironsides,” which so popularizes the story of the U.S.S. Constitution that plans to scrap the ship are cancelled. | ReligionThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, or Mormons, is founded by Joseph Smith (1805-1844). |
1831 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsFormer President John Quincy Adams (1767-1848) is elected as the Congressional representative from Massachusetts.GovernmentPresidents: James A. Garfield (1831-1881), 20th President of the U.S. is born November 19 in Orange, Ohio.GovernmentU.S. copyright law is amended to last for 28 years, renewable for 14.WarThe French Foreign Legion is founded. | ScienceCharles Darwin (1809-1882) sails on the H.M.S. Beagle, a trip on which he conceives the idea of evolution.ScienceMichael Farraday (1791-1867) develops the electromagnetic generator.InventionsChloroform is invented. InventionsAn early version of the mechanical reaper is developed by Cyrus McCormick (1809-1884).TechnologyAirplanes: Thomas Walker (1804-1886) proposes a tandem-wing airoplane with the pilot and the propulsion system amidships. This would later influence Samuel Langley as he designed his aerodromes. | EducationLibraries: The Female Literary Society, the first social library for African-American women, is founded in Philadelphia.EducationAfrican American Education: Maria W. Miller Stewart (1803-1879), an African American orator, exhorts African Americans to become educated and fight for their rights; she speaks out at a time when very few women are able to speak in public.Arts and LettersLiterature: Victor Hugo (1802-1885) publishes "The Hunchback of Notre Dame." | Monroe, ElizabethJames Monroe, fifth President of the U.S. dies in New York, New York (b. 1758).Hayes, LucyLucy Ware Webb (1831-1889), future wife of Rutherford B. Hayes (1822–1893), is born August 28 in Chillicothe, Ohio. | EconomicsThe Industrial Revolution focuses on textile mills. EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: Robert L. Stevens buys the British locomotive, the John Bull, and establishes America’s first steam railway.EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: The 3.5 ton De Witt Clinton hauls 5 stage coach bodies on railroad wheels at 25 mph on the Mohawk & Hudson Railroad between Albany and Schenectady. EconomicsTransportation: The Canadian paddle steamer, Royal William, cross the Atlantic with steam as the prime source of drift. However, her engines had to be stopped every few days because they had to be scraped from the accumulated salt deposits from the seawater used in her boilers.DiscoveryScottish explorer James Ross (1800-1862) and his Uncle, Sir John Ross (1777-1856), determine the position of the magnetic North Pole.Daily LifeThis year sees the first use of the term “Old Glory” for the U.S. flag. | Sports Horse Racing: A popular racing sheet, the "Spirit of the Times," is established by William Trotter; its aim is to improve the reputation of racing and other sports.Popular CultureAmerican Theatre: The first showboat is built, called "The Floating Theatre."Popular CultureSamuel Francis Smith (1808-1895) writes the words to "My Country, 'Tis of Thee." | Social IssuesImmigration: German immigration to the U.S. is about 15,000.Social IssuesSlavery: Nat Turner (1800-1831) leads an unsuccessful slave uprising.Social IssuesSlavery: The term "underground railroad" becomes widely used. ReformAbolition Movement: William Lloyd Garrison (1805-1879) begins publishing his abolitionist periodical, The Liberator. |
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1832 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsAndrew Jackson (1767-1845) is re-elected President and Martin Van Buren (1782-1862) is elected the 8th Vice President on the new Democratic Party ticket.PoliticsThird Parties: For the first time in American history, a third party challenges the major two parties. William Wirt (1772–1834) of the Anti-Masonic Party carries 8 percent of the vote and one state. Andrew Jackson (1767–1845), Democratic-Republican, is reelected President over National-Republican Henry Clay (1777–1852). GovernmentJohn C. Calhoun (1782-1850) becomes the first Vice President to resign from office; he runs successfully for the Senate.GovernmentStates in the South begin a series of nullification acts, attempting to redefine their relationship to the federal government.WarIndian Wars: U.S. troops fight the last Indian war north of the Ohio River and east of the Mississippi. | ScienceJane Kilby Welsh publishes her textbook, "Familiar Lessons in Mineralogy and Geology."MedicineThe dissection of cadavers in medical schools is legalized in Massachusetts.MedicineEpidemics: A cholera epidemic sweeps through major American cities, killing over 7,000 people in New York and New Orleans.MedicineThe disease later known as Hodgkin’s disease is described by English physician Thomas Hodgkin (1798-1866).InventionsThe lawn mower is invented.InventionsWalter Hunt (1796-1859) invents a lock-stitch sewing machine.InventionsCyrus McCormick invents the first commercially successful reaper.InventionsLouis Braille (1809-1852) invents the stereoscope. | EducationEducation of Women: Catherine Beecher (1800-1878) founds the Western Female Institute in Cincinnati. EducationSpecial Education: Samuel Howe (1801-1876) founds the Perkins Institute, the first major school for the blind in the U.S.Arts and LettersThe Boston Academy of Music offers free music lessons to children, adults, and teachers.Arts and LettersDrama: Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832) finishes "Faust."Arts and LettersPoetry: Alfred Lord Tennyson (1809-1892) publishes "The Lady of Shalott." | Adams, AbigailThomas Boylston Adams, third son of John and Abigail Adams, dies at 59, probably of complications of alcoholism.Fillmore, AbigailA daughter, Mary Abigail (1832-1854), is born to Abigail and Millard Fillmore in Buffalo on March 27.Lincoln, MaryMary Todd (1818-1882) is enrolled at Madame Victorie Mentelle’s select school for young ladies.Johnson, ElizaMary Johnson Stover Brown (1832-1883), daughter of Andrew and Eliza Johnson, is born May 8.Hayes, LucyLucy Webb's (1831-1889) father dies of cholera.Garfield, LucretiaLucretia Rudolph (1832-1918), future wife of President James A. Garfield (1831–1881), is born on April 19 in Hiram, Ohio.Harrison, CarolineCaroline Lavinia Scott (1832-1892), future wife of President Benjamin Harrison (1833–1901), is born On October 1 in Oxford, Ohio. | EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: "The Brother Jonathon" was the first locomotive in the world to have a four-wheel leading truck; it was designed by John B. Jervis for the Mohawk & Hudson Railroad.EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: "The American No. 1" was the first 4-4-0, the first of its class; it was designed by John B. Jervis (1795 –1885), Chief Engineer for the Mohawk & Hudson.EconomicsTransportation: The "Ann McKim," first of the American clipper ships, is launched in Baltimore.Daily LifeFrances Trollope (1780-1863) publishes "Domestic Manners of the Americans." | | ReformThe first work to treat women in a completely distinctive way, "The History of Women," is published.ReformAbolition Movement: The New England Anti-Slavery Society is founded in Boston.ReformAbolition Movement: African American women found the first Anti-Slavery society in Salem, Massachusetts. |
1833 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentCongress gives President Jackson (1767-1845) the power to use the armed forces to enforce the tariff laws; South Carolina rescinds its nullification acts after a compromise on tariffs is reached.GovernmentPresident: Benjamin Harrison (1831-1901), 23rd President of the U.S., is born.GovernmentAndrew Jackson (1767-1845) is inaugurated as President and Martin Van Buren (1782-1862) is inaugurated as the nation's 8th Vice President.GovernmentNational Capital: The Treasury building burns to the ground in Washington, DC. | ScienceMichael Farraday (1791-1867) coins the terms electrolysis, electrolyte, anode, and cathode.InventionsComputers: Charles Babbage (1791-1871) suggests the possibility of building an “analytical engine,” an early calculator. | EducationEducation of Women: Prudence Crandall (1803-1890) admits black students to her girls’ school in Connecticut and is imprisoned for violating a law passed especially to prevent her from doing so. EducationHigher Education; Education of Women: African American Education: Oberlin College in Ohio is the first college to admit Blacks and women.EducationLibraries: The first tax-supported public library in the United States is founded in Peterborough, New Hampshire.EducationChildren’s Books: Peter Parley's "Winter Evening Tales;" this delightful little book with its copperplate title page and frontispiece shows a less forbidding side of S. G. Goodrich (1793-1860). Arts and LettersFrederic Chopin (1810-1849) writes the "Piano Concerto in E Minor."Arts and LettersPoetry: Alfred, Lord Tennyson (1809-1892) writes "In Memoriam." | | Daily LifeMagazines: Parley's Magazine for Children & Youth. This is a twice-monthly magazine, founded by Samuel Griswold Goodrich (1793-1860). It emphasized geography, travel, natural history, and simple technology, along with Bible stories.Daily LifeTransportation: The Canadian ship, S.S. Royal William crosses the Atlantic in 25 days.Daily LifeNewspapers: The first "penny press," the "New York Sun," makes newspapers widely available, thus helping the spread of literacy.Daily LifeMagazines: The first magazine for mothers, "Mother’s Magazine," is published and edited by Abigail Goodrich Whittelsey (1788-1858). | Sports Baseball: An early form of baseball is played by the Olympic Ball Club in Philadelphia; most rules are like those of English cricket.Popular CultureThe legend of Davy Crockett (1786-1836) is begun with the publication of "Sketches and Eccentricities of Col. David Crockett, of West Tennessee." | Social IssuesSlavery: The British Empire abolishes slavery in its colonies.ReformAbolition Movement: The American Anti-Slavery Society is founded in Philadelphia by James Mott (1788-1868). Lucretia Mott (1793-1880), his wife, founds the Female Anti-Slavery Society.ReformLabor Movement: Shoemakers in Geneva, New York, go on strike; they win, but a later court case declares strikes to be illegal.ReformLabor Movement: The General Trades Union is formed in New York City. |
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1834 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsThird Parties: Anti-Jackson forces form the American Whig party; it lasts until 1852.GovernmentAndrew Jackson (1767-1845) removes federal deposits from the Bank of the U.S. and deposits them in “pet” state banks around the country.GovernmentThe U.S. Senate censures Andrew Jackson (1767-1845) for taking federal deposits from the Bank of the U.S.; the censure is removed from the record the following year.GovernmentThe city of Toronto is incorporated. | ScienceAmalgam (a mercury alloy) is introduced as a filling material for decayed teeth.MedicineAn antidote for arsenic poisoning is discovered by Robert Bunsen (1811-1899).InventionsThe mechanical reaper is patented by Cyrus H. McCormick (1809-1884).InventionsComputers: Charles Babbage (1791-1871)invents the principle of the "analytical engine," which is the forerunner of the computer.InventionsJacob Perkins (1766-1849) invents an early refrigerator (really an early ice machine). | EducationSpecial Education: French teacher Louis Braille invents (1809-1852) a system of printed raised dots that enables the blind to read.EducationChildren''s Books: The fairy tale "The Three Bears" is popularized.Arts and Letters"The Last Days of Pompeii is published." | Lincoln, MaryAbraham Lincoln (1809-1865) enters politics in the Illinois legislature at the age of 25.Johnson, ElizaRobert Johnson (1834-1869), son of Andrew and Eliza Johnson, is born February 22. Adams, LouisaJohn Adams II (1803-1834), son of President John Quincy Adams and Louisa Adams, dies an alcohol related death on October 23. | EconomicsTwenty-eight million acres of public land are offered for sale to those who wish to move west.DiscoveryThe first settlement is established in Oregon.Daily LifeTomatoes are begun to be eaten in the U.S.; before this, people thought they were poisonous and they were only used as ornamental “love apples.” | Sports Baseball: The first printed rules for a game much like baseball are found in the Book of Sports.Sports Baseball: Robin Carver publishes the "Book of Sports," the first American book on baseball.Sports Women in Sports: The first modern Lacrosse games are played. Lacrosse will become a major new sports opportunity for women in the 1990's with many colleges offering scholarship dollars. The original game was played by North American Indians. Popular CultureMadame Tussaud (1761-1850) opens her wax museum in London. | Social IssuesNative Americans: Under an 1828 treaty, the U.S. orders the Seminole Indians to leave Florida.Social IssuesNative Americans: Four thousand Oglala people relocate to Fort Laramie to boost their fur trade with white people.ReformAbolition Movement: Anti-abolition riots occur in New York City and Philadelphia.ReformLabor Movement: The Factory Girls Association is organized in the Lowell textile mills; women workers stage their first strike, which fails. |
1835 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentCongress pays off the national debt.WarMexican Wars: American settlers defeat a Mexican cavalry in the first battle of the Texas Revolution.WarIndian Wars: A new Seminole War begins in Florida after the escape of Seminole leader Osceola. | ScienceHailey's comet appears in its usual 75-year cycle.InventionsThe revolver is invented by Samuel Colt (1814-1862).InventionsComputers: Charles Babbage (1791-1871) invents a mechanical calculator. | EducationChildren''s Books: Hans Christian Anderson (1805-1875) publishes a book of his "Fairy Tales."EducationAfrican American Education: A school that enrolls 14 Black students in New Hampshire is burned to the ground.EducationEducation of Women: Harriet Hunt (c.1805-?) is accepted at Harvard Medical School, but the male students riot and she is forced to withdraw.EducationEducation of Women: Education for girls is established in Panama.IdeasAlexis de Tocqueville (1805-1859) publishes his "Democracy in America," a work that is still quoted today.IdeasWomen''s Rights Movement: Lydia Maria Child (1802-1880) publishes "History of the Condition of Women." | Jackson, RachelAssassination: President Andrew Jackson survives the first-ever assassination attempt on a U.S. president.Monroe, ElizabethEliza Kortright Monroe Hay (1786-1835), daughter of President James Monroe and Elizabeth Monroe, dies in France at age 49, shortly after converting to the Catholic faith. Cause of death is unknownTaylor, MargaretSarah "Knox" Taylor Davis (1814-1835), daughter of Zachary and Margaret Taylor, dies September 15 of malaria. | EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: 1,096 miles of railroad tracks are in use in the U.S.EconomicsNative Americans: Gold is found on Cherokee lands in Georgia.EconomicsThe first cast-iron bridge in America is built over Dunlap’s Creek in Brownsville, Pennsylvania.Daily LifeNewspapers: The "New York Herald" is published as a penny-paper. | Sports For a purse of $1,000, nine runners participate in a 10-mile foot race on Long Island; the winner’s time is 59 minutes, 44 seconds.Popular CultureP.T. Barnum (1810-1891) begins his career as a showman in the U.S.Popular CultureA pseudoscience called “phrenology” becomes popular; it says that physiological features, especially of the head, determine character. | ReligionWomen''s Firsts: Henrietta Hall Schuck becomes the first American female missionary in China at age 18.ReformPrison Reform: Mt. Pleasant Female Prison, the first American prison for women, is founded in New York.ReformAbolition Movement: Censorship efforts in Southern states expel abolitionists and forbid the mailing of antislavery propaganda.ReformAbolition Movement: Pro- and anti-slavery mobs clash in Charleston, South Carolina, in Boston, and in New York; in Boston, the pro-slavery attackers take William Lloyd Garrison (1805-1879) and parade him through the streets with a rope around his neck. |
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1836 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawChief Justices: President Andrew Jackson(1767-1845) nominates Roger Brooke Taney (1777-1864) as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. He is confirmed by the Senate in 1836 and serves for twenty-eight years, the second-longest tenure of any Chief Justice. PoliticsMartin Van Buren (1782-1862) is elected as the 8th U.S. President and Richard M. Johnson (1780-1850) is elected as the nation's 9th Vice President.PoliticsTexas declares independence from Mexico.GovernmentNew State: Arkansas becomes the 25th state in the U.S.GovernmentThe Michigan territory is divided to create Wisconsin.WarMexican Wars: The battle of the Alamo takes placeover 13 days; less than 200 defenders are finally defeated by 2,500 Mexican soldiers. | ScienceThe first American botanical textbook, "Elements of Botany," is written by Asa Gray (1810-1888).SciencePepsin, the powerful ferment in gastric juice, is recognized by the German physiologist, Theodor Schwann (1810-1882).InventionsFrancis Pettit Smith and John Ericcson (1803-1889) co-invent the propellor. | EducationHigher Education: Education of Women: Women’s Colleges: Wesleyan College is chartered to Georgia and is known for granting the first college degrees to women. EducationPublic Education: Child labor laws in Massachusetts require children to attend school for at least three months a year until they are 15.EducationSpecial Education: Laura Bridgman (1829-1889) becomes the first deaf-mute taught to communicate at the Perkins Institute.EducationPublic Education: The first McGuffey readers are published. Arts and LettersLiterature: Charles Dickens (1812-1870) writes "The Pickwick Papers."IdeasThe first meeting of the Transcendentalist Club is held in Boston. | Madison, DolleyJames Madison (1751-1835) dies at the Madisons' home at Montpelier, and is buried there.Fillmore, AbigailMillard Fillmore (1800-1874) is elected again as a Representative to Congress; serves until 1839.Lincoln, MaryMary Todd (1818-1882) enrolls for two more years at Ward’s academy. Pierce, JaneFranklin Pierce Jr. (1836), son of Franklin and Jane Pierce, is born February 2 and dies three days later on February 5. Jefferson, MarthaMartha Washington Jefferson Randolph (1772-1836), daughter of Thomas and Martha Jefferson, dies of apoplexy on October 10. | EconomicsAmerican Money: With minimum regulation, a proliferation of 1,600 local state-chartered, private banks now issue paper money. Daily LifeGas stoves are manufactured for the first time.Daily LifeThe Arc de Triumphe, begun 30 years earlier, is finished. | Sports Cricket: Batting pads for Cricket are invented. | ReligionThe first Mormon Temple is dedicated in Kirtland, Ohio.Social IssuesNative Americans: A written Seneca Indian language is devised by missionaries Laura Wright (1809-1886) and her husband.Social IssuesSlavery: Texas wins independence from Mexico and legalizes slavery. Free blacks and mulattos are forbidden from entering the state.ReformLabor Movement: At age 11, mill worker Harriet Jane Hanson Robinson leads her young co-workers out in support of older workers striking in protest over wage cuts.ReformAbolition Movement: There are 500 active abolitionist societies in the North.ReformTemperance Movement: The Ladies' American Home Education Society and Temperance Union is founded. |
1837 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawMembership on the Supreme Court is increased from seven to nine.GovernmentPresident Andrew Jackson (1767-1845) recognizes the Republic of Texas on his last day in office, thereby preventing its admission as a slave territory.GovernmentMartin Van Buren (1782-1862) is inaugurated as the 8th U.S. President and Richard M. Johnson (1780-1850) is inaugurated as the nation's 9th Vice President.
GovernmentNew State: Michigan becomes the 26th state in the U.S.GovernmentPresidents: Grover Cleveland (1837-1906), 22nd President of the U.S., is born in Caldwell, New Jersey.WarIndian Wars: General Zachary Taylor tricks(1784-1850) Seminole leader Osceloa (c.1804-1838) and captures him. | ScienceFrench mathematician Simeon Denis Poissson (1781-1840) develops the rules of probability by studying the incidence of death from mule kicks in the French army.InventionsAlfred Lewis Vail (1807-1859), Samuel Morse’s (1791-1872) assistant, develops the “Morse Code” of dots and dashes that will be used by telegraphers everywhere.InventionsJohn Deere (1804-1886) invents the steel-toothed plow.InventionsEnglish schoolmaster, Rowland Hill (1744-1833) invents the postage stamp. | EducationHigher Education: Education of Women: Women’s Colleges: Mount Holyoke Female Seminary is founded and is chartered in 1888(becomes the model for other colleges in the future years). EducationPublic Education: Horace Mann (1796-1959) becomes head of the newly formed Massachusetts State Board of Education. Edmund Dwight (1716-1755), a major industrialist, thinks a state board of education was so important to factory owners that he offered to supplement the state salary with extra money of his own.EducationFreidrich Froebel (1782-1852) establishes the first kindergarten in Germany.EducationHigher Education: Education of Women: Women's Colleges: Mary Mason Lyon (1797-1849) opens Mt. Holyoke Seminary in Massachusetts, one of the first colleges for women.Arts and LettersLiterature: Nathaniel Hawthorne’s (1804-1864) first work, "Twice-Told Tales" is published.IdeasRalph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882) publishes "The American Scholar." | Arthur, EllenEllen Lewis Herndon (1837-1880), future wife of President Chester A. Arthur (1829–1886), is born August 30 in Culpepper Court House, Virginia. | EconomicsTransportation: The first British liner made of iron—the Great Britain—is launched.EconomicsThe economic Panic of 1837 is felt across the nation. Many people are out of work.Daily LifeVictoria (1819-1901) becomes Queen of Great Britain. She is the first monarch to live in Buckingham Palace.Daily LifeMagazines: Sarah Josepha Hale (1788-1879), author of "Mary Had A Little Lamb," begins editing the popular women''s magazine, "Godey''s Lady''s Book."
| Sports The first boat race, sponsored by the Castle Garden Boat Club, is held in Poughkeepsie, NY.Sports Women in Sports: Donald Walker's book, "Exercise for Ladies," warns women against horseback riding, because it deforms the lower part of the body. | ReligionAmerican Presbyterians are split into the “old” and the “new.”ReformAbolition Movement: The first Anti-Slavery Convention of American Women is held in New York.ReformLabor Movement: The Grimké sisters found the National Female Anti-Slavery Society, one of the first to admit women of color from the start. |
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1838 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentSlavery: John Calhoun (1782-1850), Senator from South Carolina, introduces resolutions in the Senate affirming the legality of slavery.WarAfrikaner (Boer) forces fight and defeat the Zulu at the Battle of Blood River in South Africa. | ScienceThe Royal Irish Academy elects astronomer Caroline Herschel to membership.ScienceThe idea that cells are the basic building blocks of all living things is advanced.InventionsAmerica’s first microscope is built by Charles A. Spencer (1813-1881).InventionsA one-day, brass movement clock is invented that is both accurate and inexpensive, giving rise to the term “Yankee ingenuity.”TechnologySamuel Morse (1791-1872) gives the first demonstration of the telegraph. | EducationEducation of Women: William Holmes MdGuffey (1800-1873) supports more liberal education for women.EducationFrench philosopher Auguste Comte (1798-1857) gives the discipline of sociology its name.Arts and LettersLiterature: Author James Fenimore Cooper (1789-1851) publishes two novels criticizing American democracy; he is roundly criticized.Arts and LettersLiterature: Edgar Allen Poe (1809-1849) writes "Ligeia," often called the first work of American science fiction.Arts and LettersLiterature: Charles Dickens (1812-1870) writes "Oliver Twist" and "Nicholas Nickleby." | Harrison, AnnaWilliam Henry Harrison (1802-1838), son of William Henry and Anna Harrison, is born September 3. | EconomicsTransportation: The British liner Great Western sails from England on her maiden voyage; she is the first to cross the Atlantic regularly.EconomicsTransportation: The British steamship Sirius crosses the Atlantic solely on steam power in 18 days, 10 hours.Daily LifeNewspapers: The New York "Herald" is the first U.S. newspaper to employ European correspondents.Daily LifeThe coronation of Queen Victoria (1819-1901) takes place a year after she ascends the throne. | Popular CultureJenny Lynd (1820-1887), the "Swedish Nightingale," makes her debut. | Social IssuesNative Americans: Fifteen thousand Cherokee Indians remaining in Georgia are moved by federal troops 800 miles westward in what becomes known as "the Trail of Tears."ReformWomen's Suffrage: Widows with school-age children are allowed to vote in school board elections in Kentucky.ReformAbolution Movement: Angelina Grimké becomes the first woman to ever address an American legislature, speaking on abolition in Massachusetts. |
1839 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawWomen's Firsts: Mississippi becomes the first state to give the right to own property to women, although they must have their husbands’ permission.PoliticsThird Parties: The first anti-slavery political party, the Liberty Party, runs James Birney (1792-1857) for president. He loses.GovernmentThe kingdom of Belgium is recognized by all countries of Europe.WarThe first Opium War between Britain and China begins. | ScienceOzone is discovered and named.InventionsThe first electric clock is invented.InventionsThe first bicycle is constructed by Scottish inventor Kirkpatrick Macmillan (1813-1878).TechnologyLouis Daguerre (1787-1851) takes the first photograph of the moon.TechnologyTelegraph inventor Samuel F.B. Morse (1791-1872) makes the first daguerreotype portraits to be produced in the U.S. | EducationThe Lowell Institute in Boston is founded to provide free lectures by eminent scholars.EducationA College of Dental Surgery opens in Baltimore.EducationTeacher Education: The first public normal school (teachers' college) is founded in Lexington, Massachusetts.IdeasThe unofficial headquarters of the Transcendentalist Club is Elizabeth Palmer Peabody’s (1804-1894) Boston bookshop. | Madison, DolleyDolley Madison (1768-1849) moves back to Montpelier to try farming.Harrison, AnnaCarter Bassett Harrison (1812-1839), son of William Henry and Anna Harrison, dies August 12. Lincoln, MaryMary Todd (1818-1882) goes to live with her sister, Elizabeth Edwards (Mrs. Ninian), in Springfield, Illinois; she meets Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) there at a dance.Tyler, JuliaJulia Gardner Tyler (1820-1889) is the first President's wife to pose for a department store advertisement.Pierce, JaneFrank Robert Pierce (1839-1843), son of Franklin and Jane Pierce, is born August 27. | EconomicsThe manufacture of rubber is pioneered by Charles Goodyear (1800-1860).Daily LifeMagazines: The Lowell mill girls begin publishing "The Lowell Offering," a monthly magazine of poetry, fiction, and essays that becomes internationally known. | Sports Horse Racing: The first Grand National horse race is run in Britain.Sports Baseball: Abner Doubleday (1819-1893) lays out the first baseball field and the first game is played. | |
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1840 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsWilliam Henry Harrison (1773-1841) is elected the 9th President of the U.S., and John Tyler (1790-1862) is elected as the 10th Vice President on the Whig ticket.GovernmentUpper and lower Canada are united by an Act of Parliament.GovernmentStamps: The first postage stamps appear in Britain, bearing Queen Victoria's (1837-1901) profile. The tiny stamps (3/4 by 7/8 inches) are printed using only black ink. Brazil is the second nation to have postage stamps. | ScienceLouis Agassiz (1807-1873) publishes a work on the movements and effects of glaciers.ScienceThe fundamentals of artificial fertilizer are discovered.ScienceJames Joule (1818-1889) develops the idea that energy can be converted from one state to another, but cannot be destroyed.MedicineThe American Society of Dental Surgeons is organized in New York City.InventionsEnglishman John Herschel (1792-1871) invents the blueprint. | EducationWomen’s Colleges: St. Mary-of-the-Woods College is founded in Indiana as the first of many women's institutions that are established by Catholic Sisters and is chartered in 1846.EducationPublic Education: Irish Catholics in New York City struggle for local neighborhood control of schools as a way of preventing their children from being force-fed a Protestant curriculum.IdeasMargaret Fuller (1810-1850) becomes editor of "The Dial," an influential transcentalist publication. | Harrison, AnnaBenjamin Harrison (1806-1840), son of William Henry and Anna Harrison, is born. Adams, Abigail"Selected letters" by Abigail Adams (1744-1818) on social, political, and other matters are published. | EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: There are 2,816 miles of railroad in operation in the U.S.EconomicsTransportation: The Cunard steamship line is established, the first with scheduled transatlantic sailings.EconomicsPopulation: The sixth national census shows a population of more than 17 million; 600,000 immigrants have arrived since 1830, 207,281 from Ireland.Daily LifeWomen''s Firsts: Elizabeth Peabody (1804-1894) becomes the first woman publisher in Boston and the U.S.Daily LifeHistory of Toys: The first American dollmaker is granted a patent and dolls begin to be mass-produced in America for the first time. | Sports The game of bowling (called nine pins) becomes popular in the U.S.Popular CultureThe expression, "O.K." is first used; it refers to “Old Kinderhook,” birthplace of Martin Van Buren (1782-1862), and is also the name of a Democratic Club in New York City.Popular CultureThe ritual of afternoon tea is introduced in Britain by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford (1788-1861).Popular CultureJames Fenimore Cooper (1789-1851) writes "The Pathfinder." | Social IssuesImmigration: Over a million Irish immigrants arrive in the United States, driven out of their homes in Ireland by the potato famine. Social IssuesNative Americans: An increasing flow of emigrants to Oregon and California bring cholera, smallpox, and measles to the Indians as well as accelerated buffalo hunting for the fur trade.Social IssuesSlavery: Slaves on the Spanish ship Amistad mutiny and sale the ship into a Connecticut harbor.ReformAbolition Movement: Lydia Maria Child (1802-1880) and her husband, David Lee Child (1794-1874), edit the Anti-Slavery Standard until 1844.ReformLabor Movement: The 10-hour day is established for federal employees by a Presidential order.ReformAbolition Movement: Women's Rights Movement: William Lloyd Garrison refuses to speak at the World’s Anti-Slavery Convention in London because women have been excluded from the meeting.ReformAbolution Movement: Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton are chosen as delegates to the World’s Anti-Slavery Convention in London. |
1841 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
LawSlavery: Affirming a strong argument made by John Quincy Adams (1767-1848), the Supreme Court rules that the slaves who took over the Amistad may be freed. Thirty-five freed men return to Africa.GovernmentPresident William Henry Harrison (1773-1841) dies in office and is replaced by Vice-President John Tyler (1790-1852) as the 10th U.S. president; no new Vice President is selected.GovernmentTyler’s cabinet resigns over his veto of a bill creating a national bank; Daniel Webster remains Secretary of State.GovernmentNew Zealand becomes a British crown colony.WarMexican Wars: Texas soldiers invade New Mexico and claim all land east of the Rio Grande. Their efforts are thwarted by Governor Manuel Armijo (1793-1853). | MedicineJames Braid (1795-1860), Scottish surgeon, investigates the use of hypnosis.InventionsAdolphe Sax (1814-1894) invents the saxophone.InventionsCornstarch is patented by Orlando Jones.InventionsSamuel Slocum (1792- 1861) patents the stapler. TechnologyThe first U.S. steam fire engine is tested in New York City. | EducationEducation of Women: Oberlin College in Ohio is the first to grant college degrees to women.EducationNew England transcendentalists found the commune and school, Brook Farm.EducationEducation of Women: Catherine Beecher (1800-1878) publishes "A Treatise on Domestic Economy."EducationChildren''s Books: Harriet Martineau (1802-1876) publishes a collection of children’s stories, "The Playfellow."EducationChildren’s Books: Frederick Marryatt (1792-1848), an ex-naval officer who wrote a whole series of shipboard novels. His Masterman Ready, or the Wreck of the Pacific, first published in three volumes in 1841-42. EducationChildren’s Books: Unlike the early nineteenth-century Rousseauesque castaways, Victorian versions of the Crusoe story stressed adventure, manliness, and self-help. Well-known examples include Captain Marryat's reassuringly Evangelical Masterman Ready.IdeasRalph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882) writes "Self Reliance." | Madison, DolleyDolley Madison (1764-1849) returns to Washington, DC.Pierce, JaneBenjamin Pierce (1841-1853), son of Franklin and Jane Pierce, is born April 13. Harrison, AnnaAnna Symmes Harrison (1775-1864) is the first President's wife to never get to see or live in the White House because her husband, William Henry Harrison, died before she could join him there. President Harrison delivered the longest inaugural address (105 minutes) on a very cold winter day and contracted pneumonia.Tyler, LetitiaLetitia Christian Tyler (1790-1842) is the First Vice President's wife to become First Lady at the death of the former president. | Daily LifeNewspapers: The "New York Tribune" begins publishing, edited by Horace Greeley. | Popular CultureEdgar Allan Poe (1809-1849) publishes the first detective story, "Murders in the Rue Morgue."Popular CultureJames Fenimore Cooper (1789-1851) writes "The Deerslayer."Popular CultureCharles Dickens (1812-1870) writes "The Old Curiosity Shop." | Social IssuesSlavery: Slaves aboard the U.S.S. Creole take over the ship and sail it to Nassau, where they become free.Social IssuesSlavery: Texas gives its citizens the right and responsibility to apprehend runaway slaves and turn them over to the law so that they may be returned to their owners or sold at auction. |
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1842 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentThe border between the U.S. and Canada is established from Maine to the Great Lakes.GovernmentAmerican author Washington Irving (1783-1859) is appointed ambassador to Spain.GovernmentStamps: The first adhesive postage stamps are used in the U.S.WarIndian Wars: After destroying the Seminoles’ crops and villages, U.S. troops force a peace treaty and move them to Indian Territory in eastern Oklahoma. | ScienceThe Doppler Effect is described by Christian Doppler (1803-1853).MedicineThe first surgery using an anesthetic—ether—is performed by Dr. Crawford Long (1815-1878) of Georgia.InventionsJoseph Dart builds the first grain elevator. | EducationWomen's Colleges: Augusta Female Seminary—later Mary Baldwin Seminary, then College) is founded by Presbyterians in Staunton, VA; it will become one of the best-known early 19th century schools for girls.Arts and LettersThe New York Philharmonic Orchestra gives its first performance.IdeasRalph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882) becomes editor of "The Dial," an influential transcendentalist publication. | Tyler, LetitiaLetitia Christian Tyler (1790-1842) dies of a second stroke in the White House on September 10. She is the first First Lady to die during her husband's presidency.Mary Todd (1818-1882) and Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) are married on November 4 at her sister Elizabeth’s house in Springfield.Harrison, AnnaMary Symmes Harrison Thornton (1809-1842), daughter of William Henry and Anna Harrison, dies November 16. | DiscoveryJohn Charles Fremont (1813-1890) maps the Oregon Trail and wagon trains begin to move west.Daily LifeDisasters: Mount St. Helens in Washington state erupts. | Sports Horse Racing: Horse races at the Union Course on Long Island attract thousands of fans.Popular CultureP.T. Barnum (1810-1891)exhibits the young midget, Tom Thumb (Charles Sherwood Stratton, c. 1850). | ReformLabor Movement: The landmark Supreme Court decision, Commonwealth v. Hunt, rules that trade union are not illegal, the striking for a closed shop is legal, and that unions cannot be held responsible for illegal actions by individuals. |
1843 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsJefferson Davis (1808-1889) enters politics as a delegate to the Democratic State Convention in Alabama.GovernmentDiplomatic representatives are sent to Hawaii by the U.S.GovernmentPresidents: William McKinley (1843-1901), 25th President of the U.S. is born in Niles, Ohio.GovernmentThe first town meeting is held in Boston at Faneuil Hall. | InventionsA U.S. patent for a hand-cranked ice cream freezer is granted to Nancy M. Johnson.InventionsAlexander Bain (1818-1903) of Scotland invents the facsimile. TechnologyAirplanes: William Samuel Henson, England, proposes the Aerial Steam Carriage in "Mechanics Magazine," the first known design for a propeller-driven fixed-wing aircraft. | Arts and LettersPoetry: Alfred Lord Tennyson (1809-1892) writes "Morte d’Arthur" and "Locksley Hall."IdeasSoren Kierkegaard (1813-1855) lays the foundations for existentialism by stressing the primacy of the individualand the inevitability of suffering. IdeasWomen''s Rights Movement: Margaret Fuller (1810-1850) writes “The Great Lawsuit: Man versus Men, Woman versus Women.” | Lincoln, MaryMary Todd (1818-1882) and Abraham Lincoln’s(1809-1865) son Robert Todd (1843-1926) is born August 1 in Springfield, in the Globe Tavern, where the Lincolns lived for a time after their marriage. Pierce, JaneFrank Robert Pierce (1839-1843), son of Franklin and Jane Pierce, dies November 14 of typhoid fever; Franklin Pierce begins to wonder if God is taking his children. | EconomicsSamuel Morse (1791-1872) starts to build a telegraph line between Baltimore and Washington, DC.DiscoveryJohn Charles Fremont (1813-1890) crosses the Rocky Mountains into California.Daily LifeFashion: A new form of female dress--bloomers--is introduced by Amelia Bloomer (1818 - 1894).Daily LifeThe first use of the word “millionaire” occurs in newspapers.Daily LifeThe History of Toys: The Mansion of Happiness is developed by S.B. Ives in Salem, Massachusetts. It becomes the first board game sold in the United States. | Sports Skiing begins as a sport in Norway.Sports Rowing is introduced at Harvard.Popular CultureAmerican Theathre: The first minstrel show is performed in New York City.Popular CultureCharles Dickens (1812-1870) publishes "A Christmas Carol." | ReligionThe Jewish organization B’nai B’rith is founded.ReligionSojourner Truth (1797-1883) becomes a traveling evangelical preacher.ReformLabor Movement: The Lowell Female Labor Reform Association wins the first investigation of labor conditions by a government agency.ReformMental Health Movement: Dorothea Dix (1802-1887) pushes reforms in the way mental health patients are treated through the Massachusetts legislature. |
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1844 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsJames Knox Polk (1795-1849) is elected as the 11th President of the U.S., and George Dallas (1792-1864) is elected as the nation's 11th Vice President.GovernmentA plan to annex Texas is rejected by the Senate.GovernmentThe first treaty of peace, amity, and commerce is signed by the U.S. with China.WarA gun on the new frigate Princeton, being demonstrated by the U.S. Navy, explodes, killing the Secretaries of State and the Navy, as well as other government officials. | MedicineNitrous oxide is first used in dentistry.InventionsPaper made from wood pulp is invented by Friedrich Keller.InventionsEnglishman John Mercer (1829- 1897) invents mercerized cotton. TechnologyCharles Goodyear (1800-1860) receives a patent for rubber vulcanization.TechnologySamuel F.B. Morse (1791-1872) sends his first telegraph message to an associate 45 miles away: the message is, “What hath God wrought?” | Arts and LettersLiterature: Alexander Dumas (1802-1870) writes "The Three Musketeers."IdeasKarl Marx (1818-1883) writes of religion as “the sigh of the oppressed creature, the feelings of a heartless world…the opium of the people.” | Madison, DolleyDolley Madison (1768-1849) sells Montpelier and is the first First Lady to be granted a permanent seat on the floor of the House of Representatives. Lincoln, MaryMary Todd (1818-1882) and Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) buy a home from the Episcopal minister who had married them. This will prove to be the only home the couple ever own. Tyler, JuliaJulia Gardner (1820-1889) is the first woman to marry an American President while he was in office. Hayes, LucyLucy Webb's (1831-1889) mother, Maria Webb, moves her family to Delaware, Ohio, so that her sons, Joseph and James, can enroll in the newly formed Methodist college, Ohio Wesleyan University. | EconomicsMorse’s (1791-1872) telegraph is used for the first time between Baltimore and Washington, DC.Daily LifeThe first private bath in an American hotel is built in the New York Hotel. | Sports Cricket: The first official international cricket match is played: Canada vs. United States. | ReligionBrigham Young (1801-1877) is chosen to replace Joseph Smith (1805-1844) as leader of the Mormons.ReligionThe Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) is founded in England.ReformAnti-Child Labor Movement: The Factory Act in England prohibits children under 13 from working more than 6 ½ hours a day. |
1845 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentCongress establishes the first week in November for election day; the harvest is over but the roads are still passable.GovernmentThe U.S. Senate overrides a presidential veto for the first time.GovernmentNew State: Florida becomes the 27th state in the Union.GovernmentNew State: Texas becomes the 28th state in the Union.GovernmentJames Knox Polk (1795-1849) is inaugurated as the 11th President of the U.S., and George Dallas (1792-1864) is inaugurated as the nation's 11th Vice President. | InventionsAmerican Elias Howe (1819-1867) invents a sewing machine. InventionsSarah Mather receives a patent for a submarine telescope.InventionsRubber bands are invented.InventionsThe first pneumatic tires are patented in England.TechnologyAirplanes: William Samuel Henson and John Stringfellow (1799-1883) attempt to form the Aerial Transit Company, which (if only they had a practical airplane), would have been the world's first airline. To drum up support, they build and test a model of Henson's aerial carriage with a 20-foot wingspan. It makes brief glides, but does not sustain flight. | EducationThe first written examinations in elementary schools begin in Boston.EducationHigher Education: The U.S. Naval Academy opens at Annapolis, MD.Arts and LettersPoetry: Edgar Allan Poe (1809-1849) publishes his poem, “The Raven” with the famous line, “Quoth the Raven, Nevermore.”IdeasCatherine Beecher writes An Essay on Slavery and Abolitionism with Reference to the Duty of American Women to Their CountryIdeasMargaret Fuller publishes Women in the Nineteenth Century, an expansion of her earlier essay calling for equality for women. | Polk, SarahSarah Childress Polk (1803-1891) is the first First Lady to be "selected" by the previous President for her position (President Tyler told newly elected James Polk that he needed to get married and should marry Sarah). As a result of this selection, Sarah is the first First Lady to serve as her husband's personal secretary. Harrison, AnnaAnna Tuthill Harrison Taylor (1813-1845), daughter of William Henry and Anna Harrison, dies July 5. Hayes, LucyLucy Webb (1831-1889) attends classes at Ohio Wesleyan and receives some credits from the College, although female students are not officially enrolled there.Jackson, RachelAndrew Jackson (1767-1845), 7th President of the U.S., dies at the Hermitage in Nashville, Tennessee. | EconomicsPower looms for weaving carpets and tapestries are built by Erastus Bigelow (1814-1879).Daily LifeThe Eastern Hotel in Boston becomes the first steam-heated building in the U.S.Daily LifeMagazines: "Scientific American Magazine" begins publication. | | ReligionChildren’s Books: "Letter to My Young Cousin" by American Sunday school Union. This is a book of religious advice on behavior in the family, written as from one teenage girl to another.Social IssuesImmigration: The potato crop fails in Europe, hitting Ireland especially hard; Irish immigrants continue to flock to the U.S.ReformLabor Movement: The Industrial Congress of the U.S., one of the earliest labor unions, is organized. |
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1846 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentNew State: Iowa becomes the 29th state in the U.S.WarMexican War: The U.S. declares war on Mexico over California. U.S. forces under General Zachary Taylor (1784-1850) defeat the Mexicans at Palo Alto, the Navy occupies Monterey, and the territory of New Mexico is annexed to the U.S. | ScienceCaroline Herschel (1750-1848) is awarded the King of Prussia’s Gold Medal for science.ScienceThe planet Neptune is discovered by German astronomer Johann Gottfied Galle.MedicineDr. William Morton (1819-1868), a Massachusetts dentist, is the first to use anesthesia for tooth extraction. InventionsElias Howe (1819-1867) receives a patent for his sewing machine. | EducationThe Smithsonian Institution is established in Washington, DC as a center for scientific research.EducationEducation of Women: The National Academy of Design accepts women students.IdeasCatherine Beecher (1800-1878) publishes "The Evils Suffered by American Women and American Children." | Lincoln, MaryWith Mary’s (1818-1882) encouragement, Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) is elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.Lincoln, MaryEdward Baker (1846-1850), son of Mary Todd and Abraham Lincoln, born on March 10 in Springfield. Tyler, JuliaDavid Gardiner "Gardie" Tyler (1846-1927), the first son born to John Tyler and his second wife Julia, is born on July 12. Harrison, AnnaElizabeth "Betsey" Bassett Harrison Short (1796-1846), the oldest daughter of William Henry and Anna Harrison, is born September 29. Harrison, AnnaElizabeth "Betsey" Bassett Harrison Short (1796-1846), the oldest daughter of William Henry and Anna Harrison, dies September 26. | Daily LifeWomen''s Firsts: Sarah Bagley (1806-1848) becomes the first woman telegrapher in the U.S.Daily LifeThe first painted Christmas card is designed. | Sports Baseball: New York surveyor Alexander Cartwrite codifies the rules of baseball.Sports Baseball: The first recorded baseball game is played in Hoboken, NJ.Popular CultureEdward Lear (1812-1888) publishes his "Book of Nonsense." | ReligionThe Mormons under Brigham Young (1801-1877) move westward beyond the U.S. borders to the Great Salt Lake.ReligionThe American Missionary Association is founded, combining Protestant evangelicalism with abolitionism.Social IssuesSlavery: During the Mexican-American War, Mexico is defeated and forced to yield an enormous amount of territory to the United States. Americans then wrestle with a controversial topic: Should slavery be permitted in the new lands?ReformCapital Punishment: Michigan becomes the first state to outlaw capital punishment. |
1847 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentCalifornia comes under U.S. control.GovernmentLiberia, colonized by American ex-slaves, becomes the first independent republic in Africa.GovernmentStamps: United States stamps debut. The first two feature George Washington (1732-1799) and Ben Franklin (1706-1790). | ScienceMaria Mitchell (1818-1889) discovers a new comet which is named after her.ScienceJoseph Leidy (1823-1891) suggests that the environment affects changes (evolution) within a species.MedicineChildbirth assisted by anesthetic (chloroform) first takes place.MedicineThe American Medical Association is organized in Philadelphia.MedicineEpidemics: Another world-wide epidemic of influenza occurs.MedicineAntiseptics are developed by Ignaz Semmelweis (1818-1865), a Hungarian. InventionsThe ophthalmoscope is invented by Charles Babbage (1791-1871) . | EducationWomen's Colleges: Rockford Female Seminary (later College) is founded in Rockford, IL; it is called the “Mount Holyoke of the West.”Arts and LettersLiterature: Emily Bronte (1818-1848) writes "Wuthering Heights" and Charlotte Bronte (1816-1855) writes "Jane Eyre." | Fillmore, AbigailThe Fillmore (1800-1874) family moves to Albany when Fillmore is elected state comptroller; the children are away at boarding school and college.Mckinley, IdaIda Saxon (1847-1907), future wife of President William McKinley (1843–1901), is born in Canton, Ohio on June 8.Tyler, LetitiaAlice Tyler Denison (1847-1854), daughter of John and Letitia Tyler, is born March 23. | EconomicsEvaporated milk is made for the first time.Daily LifeDisasters: Forty-seven of the eighty-seven members of the Donner Party die while trapped in the Sierra Mountains.Daily LifeThe California town of Yerba Buena is renamed San Francisco.Daily LifeNewspapers: The telegraph is used to transfer stories over great distances, thus making news more immediate. | | ReligionThe Mormons found Salt Lake City, Utah.Social IssuesImmigration: The first Chinese immigrants arrive in the U.S.Social IssuesImmigration: Irish immigration reaches 105,000, 3 times more than the year before.Social IssuesNative Americans: Taos Rebellion against the U.S. military occurs. ReformAbolition Movement: Frederick Douglass (1817-1895) , escaped ex-slave, begins publishing his abolitionist newspaper, the North Star.ReformAnti-Child Labor Movement: Women and children in Britain may only work a 10-hour day. |
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1848 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
PoliticsZachary Taylor (1784-1850) is elected 12th President of the U.S. on the Whig ticket; Millard Fillmore is elected as the 12th Vice President.PoliticsThird Parties: Former Democratic President Martin van Buren (1782-1862) becomes the presidential candidate of the anti-slavery Free-Soil Party. He wins 10 percent of the popular vote, and is credited with siphoning off enough votes from Democratic candidate Lewis Cass (1782-1866 ) to help Whig candidate Zachary Taylor (1784- 1850) win the election. GovernmentNew State: Wisconsin becomes the 30th state in the U.S.WarMexican Wars: The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ends the war with Mexico, the U.S. receives New Mexico and California as well as parts of Nevada, Utah, Arizona and Colorado for $15 million. | ScienceMaria Mitchell (1818-1889) becomes the first woman to be elected a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.ScienceHyperion, the eighth moon of Saturn, is discovered.MedicineEpidemics: More than 5,000 deaths are caused by a cholera epidemic in New York City.InventionsMargaret (Mattie) Knight (1838-1914) (10) invents a stop-motion device to keep shuttles from sliding out of the looms and injuring workers.InventionsChewing gum is invented by John B. Curtis (1827–1897) of Maine.InventionsWaldo Hanchett patents the dental chair. | EducationWomen’s Colleges: Moore College of Art is founded in Philadelphia (then called the Philadelphia School of Design for Women); it is the first and only women's visual arts college in the nation--and one of only two in the world. EducationLibraries: Boston Public Library becomes the first publicly supported major urban library.EducationPublic Education: Massachusetts Reform School at Westboro opens, where children who have refused to attend public schools are sent. This begins a long tradition of "reform schools," which combine the education and juvenile justice systems.EducationPublic Education: The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo guarantees citizenship rights to everyone living in new American areas, mostly Mexicans and Native people. It also guarantees the continued use of the Spanish language, including in education. One hundred fifty years later, in 1998, California breaks that treaty, by passing Proposition 227, which would make it illegal for teachers to speak Spanish in public schools.EducationEducation of Women: A medical school for women opens with 12 students in Boston.IdeasKarl Marx (1818-1883) and Friedrich Engels (1820-1895) publish "The Communist Manifesto." | Tyler, JuliaJohn Alexander "Alex" Tyler (1848-1883), son of John Tyler and his second wife Julia, is born on April 7. Tyler, LetitiaMary Tyler Jones (1815-1848), the first daughter born to John and Letitia Christian Tyler, dies June 17. Taylor, MargaretMargaret Smith Taylor (1788-1852) is the only First Lady whose portrait does not hang in the White House. She refused to ever have it made. Hayes, LucyLucy Webb (1831-1889) meets Rutherford B. Hayes for the first time when he is visiting her town with his mother. She begins college at the Cincinnati Wesleyan Female College this year as well.Adams, LouisaJohn Quincy Adams (1767-1848), son of Abigail and John Adams, dies of a massive stroke on February 23. | EconomicsGold is first discovered in California, in Sutter's mill. After President Polk (1795-1849) announces the news in December, the gold rush begins soon after. Daily LifeNiagara Falls stops flowing for the first time in history because of an ice jam in the Niagara River. | Popular CultureStephen Foster (1826-1864) writes “Oh, Susannah,” which becomes popular among the “49ers” and establishes his reputation as a song writer. | ReligionSpiritualism becomes popular in the U.S.Social IssuesNative Americans: The California Gold Rush begins, increasing Western expansion across former Native American lands.ReformWomen's Rights Movement: The National Convention of Colored Freedmen held in Cleveland, Ohio resolves that women should be elected delegates on an equal basis with men.ReformWomen's Rights Movement: The first Women’s Rights convention is held in Seneca Falls, NY. |
1849 |
Law, Politics, Government, and War | Science, Medicine, Inventions, and Technology | Education, Arts and Letters, and Ideas | Lives of the First Ladies | Economics, Discovery, and Daily Life | Sports and Popular Culture | Religion, Social Issues, and Reform |
GovernmentZachary Taylor (1784-1850) is inaugurated as the 12th President of the U.S. and Millard Fillmore is inaugurated as the 12th Vice President.GovernmentThomas Ewing (1829-1896) of Ohio is appointed as the first Secretary of the Interior, a department created to meet the needs of western settlers.GovernmentCongress establishes the Minnesota territory. | ScienceJeffries Wyman (1814-1874)
describes the similarities between the skeletons of apes and humans.MedicineWomen's Firsts: Female doctors are permitted to practice medicine for the first time in the U.S., and Elizabeth Blackwell (1821-1910) becomes the first woman physician in the U.S. InventionsThe safety pin is invented by Walter Hunt (1796-1859) , trying to satisfy a $15 debt; he spends 3 hours bending wire into various forms.InventionsMary Ann Woodward patents a fan that attaches to a rocking chair.TechnologyAirplanes: Sir George Cayley (1773-1857), builds a small glider designed to lift about 80 pounds of the ground. He refers to it as his Boy Glider. It is the first recorded manned (or boyed) fixed-wing aircraft. It lifts a 10-year old boy off the ground for a few yards on test runs. Cayley also flew it in a high wind like a kite, tethered to the ground. | EducationChildren’s Books: Anna Maria Hall (1800-1881) is one of the most prolific Victorian writers for children, best known for such moral tales as "Grandmamma's Pockets." EducationThe Free Academy in New York City opens; it will become the College of the City of New York and offer free education to the children of New York’s working class. | Madison, DolleyDolley Madison (1768-1849) dies on July 12 at the age of 81.Polk, SarahJames K. Polk (1795-1849) is the first President to be photographed while in office; he dies on June 15 in Nashville, Tennessee.Fillmore, AbigailThe family moves to Washington.Lincoln, MaryAbraham Lincoln (1809-1865) applies for a patent on a floating dry dock; he is the only U.S. President to do so.Harrison, CarolineCaroline Harrison (1832-1892) meets Benjamin Harrison (1831-1901) , a student of her father’s in Cincinnati.Tyler, JuliaJulia Tyler Spencer (1849-1871), daughter of John Tyler and his second wife Julia, is born on December 25. | EconomicsSeven thousand “49ers” invade California in a search for gold. EconomicsTransportation: Railroad History: The Pacific Railroad Company is chartered, the first railroad west of the Mississippi River.EconomicsWomen''s Rights Movement: Amelia Bloomer (1818 - 1894) begins publishing "The Lily," moving it to Ohio in 1853 and employing female typesetters in spite of a strike by males on the staff. | Sports The Pearl of Bermuda beats the U.S. yacht Brenda in the first recognized international yacht race. | Social IssuesSlavery: California holds a convention, adopting a constitution that forbids slavery and requests admission to the Union.Social IssuesNative Americans: The giant redwood trees in California are named Sequoias in honor of the Cherokee Indian Chief, Sequoya (c.1770-1843).Social IssuesImmigration: The California Gold Rush sparks first mass immigration from China. ReformAbolition Movement: Maryland slave Harriet Tubman (c.1820-1913) escapes to the North with some help from her friends. |
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