United States History On This Date: April 7th

1788 — Maryland Ratifies the U.S. Constitution
Maryland becomes the seventh state to ratify the Constitution, strengthening national momentum toward replacing the Articles of Confederation and helping solidify support for the stronger federal framework envisioned by the Philadelphia Convention.
1805 — Lewis and Clark Push West from Fort Mandan
The Corps of Discovery departs its winter quarters at Fort Mandan and begins the difficult ascent up the Missouri River, entering the most uncertain phase of their journey toward the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific.
1927 — First Long‑Distance Television Transmission
Secretary of Commerce Herbert Hoover appears in the nation’s first successful long‑distance television broadcast, demonstrating a technology that would soon transform communication, politics, entertainment, and the pace of American public life.
1948 — World Health Organization Established
The United States joins sixty other nations in founding the World Health Organization, marking a major postwar commitment to coordinated global health efforts and the prevention of future pandemics and medical crises.

United States History on this Date: March 23

1775 — Patrick Henry Declares “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death!”

At the Second Virginia Convention in Richmond, Patrick Henry delivered his electrifying call for resistance to British rule, urging Virginians to prepare for war and helping galvanize revolutionary sentiment.

1806 — Lewis and Clark Depart Fort Clatsop for the Return Journey

After a harsh winter on the Pacific Coast, the Corps of Discovery left Fort Clatsop and began their long eastward trek home, carrying maps, journals, and scientific observations that would reshape American understanding of the West.

1857 — Elisha Otis Installs the First Commercial Elevator

Inventor Elisha Otis installed his pioneering safety‑equipped elevator in a New York City department store, a breakthrough that made tall commercial buildings practical and helped launch the age of vertical urban architecture.

1839 — “OK” Enters the American Vernacular

The abbreviation “OK” appeared in print and began spreading across the United States, eventually becoming one of the most widely recognized and used expressions in American English.

"Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death!"–Patrick Henry delivering his great speech on March 23rd, 1775