What happened on July 22nd?

July 21st is full of historical treasures. On this day in 1862, President Abraham Lincoln gathered his cabinet to inform them of his intent to issue the Emancipation Proclamation. This move, often heralded as a symbol of Lincoln’s commitmen to end slavery, was more of a war tactic than a move towards morality. But it was still an important step towards ending slavery in the US once and for all.

Here’s more about everything that happened today in history:

✍️ 1862: Lincoln Informed His Cabinet of the Emancipation Proclamation

In 1862, President Abraham Lincoln informed his cabinet of his intention to issue the Emancipation Proclamation, an important moment in American history amidst the Civil War. Lincoln had long contemplated how to address the issue of slavery. By mid-1862, with the war escalating and Union fortunes uncertain, Lincoln saw an opportunity to use emancipation as a means to both weaken the Confederacy and redefine the war's purpose.

On July 22, 1862, Lincoln gathered his cabinet to present a draft of the Emancipation Proclamation. He explained that he intended to issue it as a wartime measure, invoking his authority as Commander-in-Chief to free slaves in Confederate-held territory. This proclamation would not only strike a blow against the economic backbone of the Confederacy but also redefine the Union cause as one dedicated to freedom and equality.

Lincoln's cabinet meeting was not without controversy. Some members, particularly those from border states where slavery was legal but loyalty to the Union was fragile, expressed reservations. They feared that such a proclamation could alienate crucial support or incite slave uprisings. However, Lincoln was resolute, emphasizing the necessity of taking a bold step to ensure the preservation of the Union and the eventual end of slavery.

After further revisions and consultations, Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862, declaring that unless the Confederacy laid down its arms by January 1, 1863, all slaves in rebellious states would be declared free. The final proclamation, issued on January 1, 1863, fulfilled this promise, forever altering the course of the Civil War and setting the stage for the eventual abolition of slavery across the United States.

Read about Abraham Lincoln in The Paradoxical President: Re-imagining Abraham Lincoln.

⚔️ 1456: Hungarian Forces Won Against Turkish Forces in the Siege of Belgrade 

Hungarian forces led by John Hunyadi defeated the Ottoman Turks at the Siege of Belgrade. This victory was significant in halting the Ottoman advance into Europe and marked a key moment in the region's struggle between Christian and Muslim powers.

⚔️ 1812: The Battle of Salamanca Took Place during the Peninsular War

The Battle of Salamanca, a major conflict during the Peninsular War, took place on this day. British and Portuguese forces under the Duke of Wellington defeated French troops. This led to the liberation of Madrid and significantly weakening French control in Spain.

✈️ 1933: Wiley Post Completed the First Solo Flight Around the World

Aviator Wiley Post completed the first solo flight around the world, covering approximately 15,596 miles in seven days, 18 hours, and 49 minutes. His journey demonstrated significant advancements in aviation technology and navigational techniques.

⚔️ 1943: Allied Forces Took Palermo From Axis Powers During WWII

During World War II, Allied forces captured Palermo, the capital of Sicily, from Axis powers. This victory was part of the broader Allied campaign to liberate Italy and marked a turning point in the Mediterranean theater. Read about other events of WWII in WW2 Timeline and Dates.

🏃 1992: Pablo Escobar Escaped from Police Custody 

Notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar escaped from his luxury prison, La Catedral, near Medellín, Colombia. His escape led to a massive manhunt and intensified efforts by Colombian authorities and the U.S. to capture him.

🎵 1999: Infamous Music Festival Woodstock ’99 Began in New York

Woodstock ’99, a music festival celebrating the 30th anniversary of the original Woodstock, began in New York. The event was marred by violence, poor conditions, and allegations of sexual assault, contrasting sharply with the original festival's ethos of peace and love.

🌟 Born on This Day in History

1890: Rose Kennedy, US Political Figure

Rose Kennedy was the matriarch of the Kennedy family. She was the mother of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and Senator Ted Kennedy, playing a significant role in their upbringing and political careers.

1955: Willem Dafoe, Actor

Willem Dafoe is an American actor known for his versatility and roles in films such as Platoon, Spider-Man, and The Florida Project He has received multiple Academy Award nominations throughout his career.

💔 Died on This Day in History

1934: John Dillinger, Gangster

John Dillinger, a notorious American gangster during the Great Depression, was shot and killed by FBI agents outside the Biograph Theater in Chicago. Dillinger was infamous for his bank robberies and jailbreaks.

1967: Carl Sandburg, US Poet and Historian

Carl Sandburg was an American poet, historian, and Pulitzer Prize-winning author. He is known for his poetry collections, such as Chicago Poems and his comprehensive biography of Abraham Lincoln.

Talk tomorrow!

Matt

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