Today in History: President John Tyler Vetoes a National Bank Bill Sparking Violent Protests
On this date in history, August 16, 1841, President John Tyler vetoed a bill to charter a new national bank to replace the Second Bank of the United States. Tyler’s veto led to demonstrations that still rank as the most violent protest on White House grounds in...
Today in History: New York Ratifies the Constitution
On this date in 1788, New York became the 11th state to ratify the Constitution. The Constitution narrowly won approval by a 30-27 vote on July 26, 1788, after a long, hotly contested debate. Technically, the Constitution was already in effect. New Hampshire ratified...
Today in History: Benjamin Franklin Introduces Plan for American Confederation
On this date in 1775, Benjamin Franklin introduced in the Second Continental Congress a formal plan for a confederation of the American colonies. Franklin introduced his plan, “The Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union,” nearly a year before...