American History By The Day: March 8th

1817 — New York Stock Exchange Formally Founded
The New York Stock Exchange adopts its first formal constitution, transforming a loose association of brokers into an organized financial institution. This step helps standardize trading practices, strengthens investor confidence, and lays the foundation for the NYSE’s emergence as a central force in American economic life.
1862 — McClellan Begins the Peninsula Campaign
Union General George B. McClellan launches the Peninsula Campaign, moving the Army of the Potomac toward Richmond by water and land. Intended as a swift strike to end the Civil War, the campaign instead becomes a prolonged struggle that exposes leadership challenges and Confederate resilience.
 1917 — U.S. Senate Votes to Arm Merchant Ships
As German submarine attacks escalate during World War I, the Senate authorizes President Woodrow Wilson to arm American merchant vessels. The decision marks a significant shift toward open confrontation with Germany and accelerates the nation’s path toward entering the global conflict the following month.
1965 — First U.S. Combat Troops Arrive in Vietnam
The 9th Marine Expeditionary Brigade lands at Da Nang, becoming the first official U.S. combat troops deployed to Vietnam. Their arrival signals a major escalation of American involvement, transforming the conflict from an advisory mission into a full-scale military commitment with far‑reaching consequences.