United States History On This Date: September 22nd

1692 — September 22 — Final Executions in the Salem Witch Trials

The last round of executions in the Salem witch trials took place in Massachusetts, with eight people hanged on Gallows Hill. Public sentiment had begun shifting sharply against the proceedings, and growing doubts about spectral evidence undermined the court’s legitimacy. These final executions marked the beginning of the end for the hysteria that had gripped the region. Within weeks, the court was dissolved, and the colony began reassessing the tragic consequences of its actions.

1776 — September 22 — Nathan Hale Executed as an American Spy

Continental Army officer Nathan Hale was executed by the British in New York City after being captured while gathering intelligence behind enemy lines. His reported final words, expressing regret that he had “but one life to lose” for his country, became a powerful symbol of Revolutionary patriotism. Hale’s death underscored the high stakes of espionage during the war and highlighted the desperate need for reliable intelligence as Washington struggled to defend New York.

1789 — September 22 — Congress Establishes the Office of Postmaster General

The First U.S. Congress formally created the Office of Postmaster General, laying the foundation for a national postal system that would become essential to communication across the expanding republic. The act strengthened federal authority over mail routes and standardized operations previously managed by colonial systems. This development helped unify distant communities, supported commerce, and reinforced the federal government’s role in shaping national infrastructure during the early years of the Constitution.

1862 — September 22 — Lincoln Issues the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation

President Abraham Lincoln announced the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that enslaved people in states still in rebellion as of January 1, 1863 would be freed. The proclamation reframed the Civil War as a struggle not only for Union preservation but also for human liberation. It signaled a major shift in federal policy, strengthened the Union’s moral position abroad, and discouraged foreign recognition of the Confederacy. The announcement marked a turning point in American history.

1927 — September 22 — Jack Dempsey and Gene Tunney Fight the “Long Count” Rematch

In Chicago’s Soldier Field, heavyweight champion Gene Tunney defended his title against former champion Jack Dempsey in a dramatic rematch remembered as the “Long Count” fight. A delayed referee count—caused by Dempsey’s failure to move to a neutral corner—allowed Tunney crucial recovery time after being knocked down. Tunney ultimately won by decision, and the controversy became one of the most debated moments in boxing history, influencing future rules on knockdowns.

1961 — September 22 — President Kennedy Signs the Peace Corps Act

President John F. Kennedy signed legislation formally establishing the Peace Corps, transforming his earlier executive initiative into a permanent federal agency. The act authorized volunteers to serve abroad in education, health, agriculture, and community development. It reflected Cold War-era efforts to strengthen international goodwill and counter Soviet influence through humanitarian engagement. The Peace Corps quickly became a hallmark of Kennedy’s presidency and an enduring symbol of American service overseas.

On 22nd of September 1692 the last eight people were hanged for witchcraft in the US. Nineteen were hanged overall, with six other deaths during the Salem witch trials.