Today in American History

On November 15, 1777, the Continental Congress adopted the Articles of Confederation in York, Pennsylvania, establishing America's first national framework of government during the Revolutionary War. This document created a loose alliance of sovereign states, empowering Congress to conduct war, diplomacy, and postal services while preserving state independence, serving as the young nation's govern...

On November 14, 1776, a London newspaper reported that Benjamin Franklin had aligned himself with the American revolutionaries, confirming his commitment to the cause of independence. This announcement highlighted Franklin's shift from colonial diplomat to key Patriot figure, paving the way for his crucial diplomatic mission to France to secure alliances and support for the Revolution.

On November 13, 1775, American forces under General Richard Montgomery captured Montreal during the Revolutionary War's ill-fated invasion of Canada. This bloodless victory marked a high point in the two-pronged attack aimed at securing northern frontiers and gaining Canadian support, though the campaign ultimately faltered at Quebec.

On November 12, 1775, Patriot naval forces under Capt. Simon Tufts aboard the USS Defense engaged British ships HMS Tamar and HMS Cherokee in Hog Island Channel, South Carolina, successfully sinking hulks to block British access to Charleston Harbor despite intense enemy fire. This early Revolutionary War naval action showcased colonial ingenuity and determination in defending key southern ports.

On November 11, 1778, a force of British-allied Iroquois warriors, Loyalist rangers, and British soldiers launched a devastating raid on the frontier settlement of Cherry Valley, New York, killing over 30 settlers and soldiers in one of the Revolutionary War's most notorious acts of frontier warfare. This event underscored the brutal alliances and civilian toll in the conflict's western theaters.

On November 10, 1775, the Second Continental Congress authorized the formation of two battalions of Marines in Philadelphia, creating the Continental Marines—precursor to the U.S. Marine Corps. Under Captain Samuel Nicholas, they conducted amphibious operations, including the first Marine landing in the Bahamas in 1776, embodying the revolutionary spirit of adaptability and bravery in the fight fo...

We will be taking a hiatus for the next few days, but will be back on Monday.

On November 4, 1782, Patriot forces under Capt. Felix Warley clashed with Loyalists at John's Ferry on John's Island, South Carolina, in one of the final skirmishes of the Revolutionary War. This engagement demonstrated the unyielding resolve of Southern militiamen in the war's closing months, contributing to the pressure that led to British evacuation and the path to peace. For more info on Ameri...

On November 3, 1783, Congress ordered the discharge of the Continental Army troops who had enlisted for the duration of the Revolutionary War, marking the official end of the standing army that secured American independence. George Washington's leadership in this orderly disbandment symbolized the transition from wartime sacrifice to peacetime prosperity, honoring the veterans who forged the natio...

On November 2, 1783, from his headquarters at Rocky Hill, New Jersey, George Washington issued his Farewell Orders to the Continental Army, formally disbanding the victorious troops after eight grueling years of the Revolutionary War.

On October 31, 1776, King George III delivered his first speech to Parliament since the American Declaration of Independence, acknowledging the rebellion's persistence and calling for increased military efforts to suppress it. This address, while intended to rally British resolve, inadvertently highlighted colonial successes and boosted Patriot morale when news reached America.

On October 30, 1776, George Washington issued general orders from White Plains, New York, addressing court-martials, troop movements, and supply issues amid the army's repositioning after the Battle of White Plains. These directives emphasized discipline and readiness, helping maintain Continental Army cohesion during a critical retreat phase in the Revolutionary War.

October 29, 1776 – After White Plains, Washington evacuated Westchester County into New Jersey, a masterful maneuver that positioned forces for the Trenton miracle.

On October 28, 1776, Washington faced Howe at White Plains, New York, in a tactical draw that preserved his army despite British gains, buying time for winter counterstrikes.

October 27, 1775 (prelude impact in 1776) – The king's speech declaring war echoed into October 1776 battles, galvanizing colonial resolve amid New York defeats. For more info on the Celebrate America Foundation, visit us online at CAF.us or follow us on social media.

October 26, 1776 – Benjamin Franklin sailed from Philadelphia to France, securing crucial alliances and loans that sustained the Revolution through 1783. For more information on Celebrate America Foundation, visit CAF.us, or follow us on social media.

October 25, 1782 – At New Windsor, New York, Washington reviewed troops in a post-Yorktown parade, boosting morale and signaling the Continental Army's transition to peacetime.

October 24, 1795 – Chief Justice John Jay's treaty with Britain averted war, resolved post-revolutionary debts, and secured U.S. neutral trade rights in a fragile young republic.

October 23, 1782 – The Continental Congress approved the Great Seal of the United States, featuring the eagle and stars, symbolizing the new nation's enduring sovereignty post-revolution.

October 22, 1732 – Born in Virginia, George Washington's early life as surveyor and soldier foreshadowed his role in 1776's revolution, embodying colonial grit and leadership.

October 21, 1776 – Arnold's surviving ships limped to port after Valcour, but their stand delayed British northern invasion until 1777, altering the war's strategic map.

October 20, 1781 – American diplomats Benjamin Franklin and John Adams began informal talks in Europe post-Yorktown, paving the way for the 1783 treaty recognizing U.S. sovereignty.

On October 19, 1781, British General Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown, Virginia, effectively ending major Revolutionary War combat and securing American independence.

October 18, 1783 – Though post-war, the first U.S. balloon ascent in Philadelphia echoed revolutionary innovation, inspiring 19th-century American ingenuity in science and exploration.

October 17, 1777 – British General Burgoyne surrendered at Saratoga, a turning point victory that convinced France to ally with America, tipping the Revolutionary War's balance.