United States History On This Date: May 15th

1756 — The Seven Years’ War Begins in North America

Britain formally declared war on France, marking the full outbreak of the Seven Years’ War, known in the colonies as the French and Indian War. The conflict reshaped North America as British and French forces battled for control of the continent’s interior. The war’s enormous cost later drove Britain to impose new taxes on the colonies, setting the stage for revolutionary tensions.

1800 — President John Adams Orders Federal Government to Move to Washington

President John Adams directed federal offices to begin relocating from Philadelphia to the still‑unfinished capital at Washington, D.C. The move symbolized the young nation’s commitment to a permanent federal city, even as construction delays, muddy streets, and half‑completed buildings frustrated officials. The transition marked a major step in establishing Washington as the political center of the United States.

1862 — Grant Begins the Siege of Vicksburg

Union forces under Ulysses S. Grant tightened their grip around Vicksburg, Mississippi, beginning the formal siege that would last more than six weeks. After a series of bold maneuvers and hard‑fought battles, Grant’s army encircled the city, cutting off supplies and escape routes. The siege became one of the Civil War’s decisive campaigns, aimed at securing full Union control of the Mississippi River.

1911 — The Supreme Court Breaks Up Standard Oil

In a landmark antitrust ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court ordered the dissolution of the Standard Oil Company, declaring it an illegal monopoly under the Sherman Antitrust Act. The decision split the corporation into more than 30 independent companies. The ruling reshaped American business, strengthened federal regulatory power, and became a defining moment in the Progressive Era’s campaign against concentrated corporate control.

1942 — Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES) Authorized

The U.S. Navy received approval to establish the WAVES, allowing women to serve in administrative, technical, and communications roles during World War II. The program expanded the Navy’s workforce dramatically and opened new opportunities for women in military service. WAVES members became essential to wartime operations, demonstrating the growing importance of women’s contributions to national defense.

The seige of the Confederate river fortress at Vicksburg, Mississippi begins on May 15th, 1862