What happened on June 17th?

It’s Monday again. But today is a fun one. On this day in history,  the Statue of Liberty arrived in New York Harbor. A monumental gift from France to the United States, it remains an iconic symbol of freedom and democracy.

Learn more about this and the rest of the cool stuff that happened on June 17th!

Also, at the end of this post, you will find a link to a three-question survey I am conducting to see how this newsletter can be improved. Please take a moment to fill it out. Your feedback is much appreciated.

🗽 1885: Statue of Liberty Arrives in New York Harbor

A dismantled Statue of Liberty arrived in New York Harbor as a gift from France to the United States. Designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the statue was intended to symbolize freedom and democracy and commemorate the alliance between the two nations during the American Revolution. The statue, packed in over 200 crates, would be reassembled over the following months on Bedloe's Island, now known as Liberty Island. 

Its arrival marked the beginning of a new era in American history, inspiring generations of immigrants as they entered the United States and serving as a powerful symbol of hope and opportunity for people around the world. 

⛰️ 1775: Battle of Bunker Hill Takes Place

The Battle of Bunker Hill took place during the early stages of the American Revolutionary War. Although the battle is named after Bunker Hill, most of the fighting occurred on nearby Breed's Hill. Despite being ultimately forced to retreat, the colonial forces inflicted significant casualties on the British, demonstrating that they could stand up to the professional British troops. This battle boosted the morale of the American forces and became a symbol of their determination and resilience in the fight for independence.

Read more about where this battle fits into the entire American Revolution timeline.

⚔️ 1876: Native Americans Score Victory at the Battle of the Rosebud

Native American forces, led by Sioux and Cheyenne warriors under the command of Crazy Horse, achieved a significant victory at the Battle of the Rosebud. The battle was fought against U.S. Army troops commanded by General George Crook in the Montana Territory. 

Despite being outnumbered, the Native American warriors effectively used the terrain and their combat skills to thwart Crook's advance, inflicting considerable casualties and forcing his troops to retreat. This victory was a precursor to the more famous Battle of the Little Bighorn and demonstrated the resilience and strategic prowess of the Native American forces in defending their land.

🇺🇸 1930: The United States Imposes the Protectionist Smoot-Hawley Tariff

The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act was signed into law, raising U.S. tariffs on imported goods to historically high levels. It aimed to protect American businesses but is widely believed to have worsened the Great Depression.

⚔️1940: The Soviet Red Army Invades Latvia

Following the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact with Nazi Germany in 1939, which secretly divided Eastern Europe into spheres of influence, the Soviet Union exerted pressure on Latvia to allow Soviet military bases on its territory. In June 1940, under the pretext of alleged Latvian provocations, the Red Army invaded and occupied the country.

1944: Iceland Declares Itself a Republic

Following a national referendum where an overwhelming majority voted in favor, Iceland formally severed its ties with Denmark and established itself as an independent republic. This marked the end of the Danish-Icelandic Act of Union, which had been in place since 1918, and the culmination of Iceland's long struggle for self-determination.

✊ 1953: Soviets Crushes Anti-Government Riots in East Berlin

Simmering discontent in East Germany over harsh working conditions, low wages, and political repression erupted into widespread anti-government protests and strikes. The demonstrations quickly spread throughout East Berlin and other cities, posing a significant challenge to the East German government and its Soviet backers. The Soviet military intervened to suppress the uprisings, leading to numerous deaths and arrests. Learn about how Berlin was divided by the Iron Curtain and the fall of the wall in The Fall of the Berlin Wall: History, Meaning, Causes, Consequences.

🌟 Born on This Day in History

1239: Edward I, King of England

Edward I, also known as Edward Longshanks, was a formidable king known for his military campaigns in Wales and Scotland and his role in developing the English legal system. Read about other English monarchs in The Kings and Queens of England: English Monarchs Timeline from William the Conqueror to Elizabeth II.

1900: Martin Bormann, German Nazi Leader

Martin Bormann was a prominent Nazi official who served as Adolf Hitler's private secretary and head of the Nazi Party Chancellery. He played a significant role in the administration of the Third Reich.

1980: Venus Williams, Tennis Player

Venus Williams is a highly successful professional tennis player, known for her powerful playing style and numerous Grand Slam titles. She has significantly impacted women's tennis.

💔 Died on This Day in History

1631: Mumtaz Mahal, Mughal Queen

Mumtaz Mahal was the beloved wife of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan who inspired the construction of the Taj Mahal, one of the world's most famous monuments.

1719: Joseph Addison, English Author

Joseph Addison was an influential English essayist, poet, and playwright, best known for his work with Richard Steele in founding the periodicals The Tatler and The Spectator.

1775: Joseph Warren, US Politician

Joseph Warren was an American physician and patriot leader who played a key role in the early stages of the American Revolution. He died at the Battle of Bunker Hill.

Not a bad way to start off the week if you ask me. Hope you enjoyed this edition of the History of Today. 

Until tomorrow,

Matt

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