United States History On This Date: March 22

1765 — Parliament Passes the Stamp Act
The British Parliament approved the Stamp Act, imposing the first direct tax on the American colonies. The measure sparked widespread protest, uniting merchants, printers, and political leaders in opposition and helping lay the groundwork for the revolutionary movement that followed.
1621 — Pilgrims and Wampanoags Sign Peace Treaty
At Plymouth, Governor John Carver and Wampanoag sachem Massasoit agreed to a mutual defense pact. The treaty, facilitated by Squanto, established a fragile but significant period of cooperation between the English settlers and the Wampanoag people.
1820 — Naval Hero Stephen Decatur Killed in Duel
U.S. Navy officer Stephen Decatur, celebrated for his exploits in the Barbary Wars, was mortally wounded in a duel with fellow officer James Barron. The confrontation stemmed from long‑standing professional grievances and shocked the young nation.
1893 — First Women’s College Basketball Game Played
Smith College hosted the first women’s intercollegiate basketball game, with sophomores defeating freshmen 5–4. The event marked an early milestone in women’s athletics and helped establish basketball as a popular sport for women in American colleges.

Commodore Steven Decatur lies dying after his duel with Commodore James Barron in Colmar Manor, Maryland