What happened on June 25th?

Good morning!

It’s Tuesday and the 4th looms next week. Most of us still have to power through a full week before some much needed summer down time. Thankfully we have some exciting history to help you to just that.

On this date, June 25th, 1876, a big moment took place in America’s rapid and violent westward expansion: The Battle of Little Big Horn. Often glorified in films and TVs, this battle, along with the many other conflicts between the relatively newly formed USA and the many native groups living in the American West, is a poignant reminder of how there are always winners and losers in history, and both stories are equally important.

⚔️1876: Battle of the Little Bighorn

The Battle of the Little Bighorn, fought on June 25-26, 1876, was a a series of conflicts over the South Dakota Black Hills. It was fought between the U.S. Army's 7th Cavalry Regiment, led by Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer, and combined forces of Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes.

The U.S. government aimed to force these tribes onto reservations to open their lands to settlers. However, Custer underestimated the Native American forces, led by Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse. This resulted in a decisive victory for the Native American forces, with Custer and his men suffering a devastating defeat, . Ths included Custer's own death, and this battle is famously referred to as "Custer's Last Stand."

While a victory of the Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes, the victory did not last long. In response, the US government voted to expand the size of its military and also attach the “sell or starve” ammendment to the Indian Appropriatons Act. This bill cut off all rations provided to already displaced tribes until the lands surrounding the Black Hills had been ceded to the United States.

Interestingly, the tribes fighting against the US at Little Bighorn had taken control of it from Sioux tribes after having been forced off their own lands during the previous 30 years.

Westward expansion was a major theme during 20th century US history, but it came a significant cost: the near annihilation of Native American people and culture. This reality is one that’s still being reckoned with today.

📜1530: The Augsburg Confession

Lutheran princes and representatives submitted the Augsburg Confession to Emperor Charles V. This document outlined the principles and beliefs of the Lutheran faith, clarifying their theological positions and addressing misconceptions. The presentation aimed to defend the reformers' teachings against accusations of heresy and find common ground with the Catholic Church. 

💨1915: Germans Released Statement on Use of Poison Gas at Ypres

Germany acknowledged their use of poison gas at the Second Battle of Ypres. This first large-scale deployment of chemical weapons introduced a horrifying new method of combat. Chlorine gas caused devastating casualties and added a terrifying dimension to the brutal conflict. Germany's admission highlighted the escalating desperation and tactics of the war, setting a precedent for future chemical warfare and prompting international condemnation.

🎖️1942: Eisenhower Takes Command

General Dwight D. Eisenhower's leadership as Supreme Allied Commander in charge of the unified resistance to the Axis powers in WW2 was crucial to the success of the Allies. He was a major player behind the invasion of Normandy (June 1944). His diplomatic skills also maintained Allied unity, crucial for defeating Nazi Germany. Due to his success and popularity as a military commander, Eisenhower, or Ike as they called him, would be elected president in 1952.

🏛️1943: The Smith-Connally Anti-Strike Act Enacted by the U.S. Congress

The Smith-Connally Anti-Strike Act, enacted on June 25, 1943, was a U.S. federal law passed during World War II in response to labor strikes that threatened war production. It authorized the federal government to seize and operate industries threatened by strikes, particularly those involved in war production and prohibited unions from engaging in "no-strike" pledges. The act aimed to prevent disruptions to the war effort and maintain industrial productivity during a critical period in American history.

📖1947: Anne Frank's "The Diary of a Young Girl" First Published

The diary offers a poignant account of Anne Frank's life in hiding during the Nazi occupation, providing insight into the human experience amidst persecution. Its legacy extends beyond its publication, sparking conversations about the Holocaust, inspiring empathy, and serving as a symbol of courage and resilience in the fight against oppression. Read our Echoes: How Anne Frank’s Story Reached the World article.

💥1950: Korean War Began

North Korean forces launched a surprise invasion by crossing the 38th parallel, the border separating North and South Korea. This marked the beginning of a significant Cold War conflict with far-reaching implications. The conflict stemmed from tensions between the communist North, backed by the Soviet Union and China, and the capitalist South, supported by the United States and its allies. Read more about Cold war and how what impacts it had on ordinary people in The Cold War: The Ordinary People who Helped Shaped the Future.

🏳️‍🌈1978: The First Version of the Rainbow Flag Was Flown

The LGBTQ+ pride movement reached a milestone as the iconic Rainbow Flag, designed by Gilbert Baker, was unfurled for the first time during the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade. Its vibrant colors represent the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community, while its message of inclusivity and acceptance continues to resonate today.

👩‍⚖️1993: Kim Campbell Became Canada’s First Female Prime Minister

Her ascent to power came during a crucial time of political transition, following the resignation of her predecessor, Brian Mulroney. Campbell's leadership represented a landmark moment in Canadian politics, signaling progress toward gender equality and challenging traditional gender roles in government. Despite her relatively short tenure, Campbell's appointment paved the way for greater representation of women in Canadian politics.

🌟Born on This Day in History

1852: Antoni Gaudí, Spanish Architect

Antoni Gaudí was a visionary architect known for his unique and elaborate designs, most famously the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.

1903: George Orwell, British Author

George Orwell, born Eric Arthur Blair, was a British author known for influential works like 1984 and Animal Farm, which offer critical insights into totalitarianism and social injustice.

1961: Ricky Gervais, British Comedian

Ricky Gervais is a renowned British comedian, actor, and writer, best known for creating and starring in the mockumentary sitcom The Office and for his sharp and often controversial stand-up comedy.

💔Died on This Day in History

1876: George Armstrong Custer, United States Military Officer

George Armstrong Custer was a United States military officer known for his role in the American Civil War and his controversial leadership in the Indian Wars. He is perhaps best remembered for his defeat and death at the Battle of the Little Bighorn on June 25-26, 1876, a significant event in the Plains Indian Wars that has since become a symbol of both Native American resistance and the dangers of overconfidence in military leadership.

2009: Michael Jackson, Singer, Songwriter, and Dancer

Michael Jackson was an American singer, songwriter, and dancer, widely regarded as one of the most influential entertainers in the history of popular music. Known as the "King of Pop," Jackson's innovative music, performances, and cultural impact revolutionized the music industry.

Enjoy the rest of your Tuesday. Thanks for tuning in!

See you tomorrow,

Matt