George Washington Gave the First State of the Union Message in 1790

 Events
Jan 082024
 

George Washington

George Washington gave the first State of the Union message in 1790. The Constitution requires that the president “shall from time to time give to the Congress information of the state of the union, and recommend to their consideration such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient.” Washington chose to deliver this message via a speech. So did John Adams. However, from Jefferson to Taft the messages were reports, often lengthy and detailed, delivered to Congress. Washington’s State of the Union message suggested that the military be strengthened and that a standard set of weights and measures be developed. Children can read his message, and find all the other State of the Union messages, at an amazing website: http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/index.php?pid=29431

Battle of New Orleans Took Place in 1815

 Events
Jan 082024
 

Battle of New Orleans

Battle of New Orleans took place in 1815. Great Britain and the United States were still fighting in the War of 1812. The battle began around December 12, 1814. The British wanted to seize New Orleans and control the Mississippi River region. Of course, the Americans wanted to retain ownership of the city and the river. General Andrew Jackson’s American troops crushed the British. However, both sides later found out that a peace treaty had been signed two weeks prior to the battle. Andrew Jackson became a real hero! Older children can read copies of original documents at: Archives. Children can also view the America’s Library site and listen to a rendition of “Eighth of January” at: Battle of New Orleans. Here is an interesting note about history. This battle was so popular in the United States, and Andrew Jackson became so popular in the United States, that January 8th was actually a national holiday as important as July 4th until around 1845!

Herman Hollerith Patented his Tabulating Machine in 1889

 Events
Jan 082024
 
Herman Hollerith's 1890 Tabulating Machine

Herman Hollerith’s 1890 Tabulating Machine

Herman Hollerith patented his tabulating machine in 1889. This machine, instrumental in calculating census data, was a precursor to today’s computers. Children can view his patent at: http://www.google.com/patents/US395782. Idea: Children could make a timeline of inventions important to the development of the computer.