1776 – 1st vote on Declaration of Independence for Britain’s North American colonies.
1836 – US President Andrew Jackson announces to Congress bequest by James Smithson of 100,000 gold sovereigns to found institution in Washington.
1847 – 1st US postage stamps go on sale, 5 cent Franklin and 10 cent Washington, NYC.
1862 – US Internal Revenue Law imposes 1st federal taxes on inheritance, tobacco and on incomes over $600 (progressive rate)
1899 – Gideon Society established to place bibles in hotels.
1905 – Albert Einstein introduces his theory of special relativity.
1916 – Coca-Cola brings current coke formula to the market.
1931 – Ice vending machines introduced in LA 25 lbs, 15 cents.
1934 – 1st x-ray photo of entire body, Rochester, NY.
1941 – Bulova Watch Co pays $9 for 1st ever network TV commercial.
1943 – Pay-as-you-go” – 1st withholding tax from paychecks.
1952 – The first NASCAR Grand National event is run outside of the US with Buddy Shuman winning the 200-lap race at Stamford Park, Ontario, Canada.
1956 – Elvis Presley wearing a tuxedo appears on Steve Allen show.
1963 – ZIP (Zone Improvement Plan) Codes are introduced for United States mail.
1966 – Medicare goes into effect.
1974 – NFL players go on strike for 41 days challenging the “Rozelle Rule” but had to wait until 1977 for new collective bargaining agreement.
1979 – Sony introduces the Walkman.
1992 – Fox broadcasting adds Wednesday night TV programming.
2011 – NBA owners begin the second player lockout in 12 years, shortening the season by 16 games before a salary agreement was reached.
2015 – US and Cuba announce agreement to re-open embassies and establish full diplomatic ties.
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