Saint Kitts and Nevis Celebrate Independence Day

 Events
Sep 192024
 
Saint Kitts and Nevis

Flag of Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Kitts and Nevis celebrate Independence Day. The two islands, located in the eastern portion of the Caribbean Sea, became free of British rule in 1983, but they remain a part of the British Commonwealth. They are about 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC. Sugar was a large part of the economy, but the country has now shifted to tourism and diversified farming. About 51,000 people live on the islands, and Basseterre is the capital. Older children can learn more at: Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Bacon’s Rebellion – 1676

 Events
Sep 192024
 

Jamestown was burned by Nathaniel Bacon and his men in 1676. This action later became known as part of Bacon’s Rebellion. They were rebelling against Governor Sir William Berkeley and his laws regarding control of Jamestown. Berkeley fled, and Bacon became the colony’s leader. He died shortly after taking control. Berkeley regained leadership. However, Berkeley was replaced a year later; and rebellion became unnecessary. Children could learn more at: Bacon’s Rebellion.

Hot Air Balloon with Animal Passengers – 1783

 Events
Sep 192024
 
Hot Air: The (Mostly) True Story of the First Hot-Air Balloon Ride

Hot Air: The (Mostly) True Story of the First Hot-Air Balloon Ride

Hot air balloon with animal passengers was flown for the first time in 1783. Joseph and Jacques Montgolfier launched their globe aerostatique in France. The duck, sheep, and rooster all survived the ten-minute trip! Children could read the amazing Hot Air: The (Mostly) True Story of the First Hot-Air Balloon Ride, written and illustrated by Marjorie Priceman. The book earned a 2006 Caldecott Honor Award.

President Washington’s Last Address to the Nation – 1796

 Events
Sep 192024
 
George Washington

George Washington

President George Washington gave his farewell address to the nation in 1796. First printed in the newspaper American Daily Advertiser, the speech was titled, “The Address of General Washington To The People of The United States on his declining of the Presidency of the United States.”  It was reprinted almost immediately in many other newspapers and somewhat re-titled Washington’s Farewell Address. Children could read a transcript of his speech at: Farewell Address.