United States History On This Date: April 19th

1775 — The Battles of Lexington and Concord Begin the American Revolution

At dawn on April 19, British regulars marching to seize colonial stores at Concord encountered Massachusetts militia on Lexington Green. A single shot — still debated — triggered the first exchange of the war. By day’s end, militia from dozens of towns had driven the British back to Boston, marking the birth of armed American resistance.

1861 — Baltimore Riot: First Blood of the Civil War

Union troops of the 6th Massachusetts, passing through Baltimore en route to Washington, were attacked by a pro‑secession mob. Four soldiers and twelve civilians were killed. The violence severed rail links to Washington and underscored how precarious the Union capital’s security was in the war’s opening week.

1897 — The First Boston Marathon Is Run

Inspired by the revival of the Olympic Games, the inaugural Boston Marathon began in Ashland and ended in Boston’s Back Bay. Fifteen runners started; ten finished. John J. McDermott of New York won the race in 2:55:10, establishing what would become the world’s oldest annual marathon.

1933 — The United States Leaves the Gold Standard (Temporarily)

In the depths of the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt suspended the gold standard to halt bank runs and stabilize the financial system. The move allowed the federal government to expand the money supply and pursue aggressive economic recovery measures.

Concord Bridge, The Nineteenth of April, 1775