This Day in History - Page 15

June 18, 2024

On this day in history, June 18, 1983, astronaut Sally Ride becomes first American woman in space

Sally Ride made history as the first American woman in space on this day in history, June 18, 1983. Ride was one of six women picked for the astronaut class of 1978.

June 17, 2024

On this day in history, June 17, 1885, the Statue of Liberty arrives in New York

The Statue of Liberty arrived in New York by ship on this day in history, June 17, 1885. Construction would take some time, as the pedestal was still being built.

June 16, 2024

On this day in history, June 16, 1884, first American roller coaster opens at Coney Island

The first roller coaster ride in America opened at Coney Island, in Brooklyn, New York, on this day in history, June 16, 1884. The coaster traveled about six miles an hour and cost just 5 cents.

June 15, 2024

On this day in history, June 15, 1864, Arlington National Cemetery is established in Virginia

The creation of Arlington National Cemetery, on this day in history, June 15, 1864, began with the seizure of Robert E. Lee's Virginia home after he defected to the Confederacy in the Civil War.

June 14, 2024

On this day in history, June 14, 1777, Congress adopts 'Stars and Stripes' flag, the 'new constellation'

On this day in history, June 14, 1777, the nation adopted the U.S. flag. Here's more on the history and iterations of the U.S. flag — and what some presidents have said about this symbol of freedom.

June 13, 2024

On this day in history, June 13, 1966, Supreme Court decision creates Miranda rights for those under arrest

On this day in history, June 13, 1966, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that anyone in police custody has the right against self-incrimination and the right to an attorney.

June 12, 2024

On this day in history, June 12, 1987, Reagan urges Gorbachev to 'tear down this wall'

Profound urging by President Ronald Reagan on this day in history, June 12, 1987, to Soviet leader Gorbachev to "tear down this wall," referring to the Berlin Wall, was iconic of Reagan's presidency.

June 11, 2024

On this day in history, June 11, 1982, the film 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial' is released: 'Deeply touching'

On this day in history, June 11, 1982, the Oscar-winning film "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial," directed by Steven Spielberg, is released, hailed as "rare blockbuster that is also a work of art."

June 10, 2024

On this day in history, June 10, 1752, Benjamin Franklin famously flies kite during thunderstorm

Benjamin Franklin flew a kite in a storm and advanced humanity's understanding of electricity on this day in history, June 10, 1752. Franklin was also a U.S. statesman and founding father.

June 9, 2024

On this day in history, June 9, 1891, celebrated composer Cole Porter is born in Indiana

On this day in history, June 9, 1891, American composer Cole Porter was born in Peru, Indiana — and went on to great success as a writer of songs and lyrics for celebrated Broadway shows.