What happened on November 4th?

Barack Obama becomes the president of the United States

Author

Matthew Jones
November 04, 2024

2008 Barack Obama Is Elected President

On November 4th, 2008, Barack Obama was elected as the first African-American president of the United States. His election was a turning point that symbolized progress in the long struggle for racial equality in America. Obama's victory energized millions and sparked widespread optimism for change in both domestic and foreign policy as the country faced economic challenges and two ongoing wars. His presidency would go on to shape key issues, including healthcare reform and international diplomacy.

Barack Obama speaks at the 2008 DNC.

🗞️Today’s Headlines

Everything important that’s ever happened on November 4:

2001 ─ Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone premiered in London, marking the film debut of J.K. Rowling's beloved series.

1995 ─ Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated, which shocked the nation and disrupted the Arab-Israeli peace process.

1980 ─ Ronald Reagan was elected the 40th president of the United States, signaling a shift toward conservative policies.

1946 ─ UNESCO was officially established, promoting global cooperation in education, science, and culture.

1922 ─ British archaeologist Howard Carter discovered the tomb of the Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamen, which was one of the greatest finds in Egyptology.

1842 ─ Future US president Abraham Lincoln married Mary Todd, forging a partnership that would endure through the Civil War.

1791 ─ US General Arthur St. Clair suffered a devastating defeat against the Northwest Indian Confederation in what became known as St. Clair's Defeat.

🎂 Today’s Birthdays

On November 4, we’re singing to:

Harry George Ferguson (1884) ─ Irish industrialist best known for developing the modern agricultural tractor and revolutionizing farming.

Kathy Griffin (1960) ─ Comedian and actress, famous for her stand-up comedy and outspoken personality in Hollywood.

Matthew McConaughey (1969) ─ Academy Award-winning actor recognized for his performances in Dallas Buyers Club, Interstellar, and True Detective.

 🪦Who Died Today?

On November 4, we’re saying goodbye to:

Felix Mendelssohn (1847) ─ German composer and musician celebrated for works like A Midsummer Night’s Dream and his symphonies.

Gabriel Fauré (1924) ─ French composer known for his delicate and expressive music, including Requiem and Pavane.

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