On September 17, 1787, the Founding Fathers of the United States signed the U.S. Constitution. The holiday was originally “I Am an American Day” and was observed on the third Sunday in May, first established as a federal holiday in 1940. Twelve years later in 1952, it was changed to September 17 and renamed “ConstitutionContinue reading “Constitution Day in the United States”
Tag Archives: American history
The Value of a Nation
As I saw so many posts remembering the loss and the sacrifice that characterize our collective memories of the September 11 terrorist attacks, I was prompted to ponder the national response and massive relief effort which took place in the wake of the attacks. For those unfamiliar with the context, on September 11, 2001, aContinue reading “The Value of a Nation”
Fateful Flight of the Stars and Stripes
This weekend was the 244th anniversary of the first time the American Flag was flown in battle. On September 3, 1777 the red, white, and blue banner with thirteen stars and thirteen stripes was first flown during the Battle of Cooch’s Bride in Delaware. Under the command of General William Maxwell, Continental forces raised theContinue reading “Fateful Flight of the Stars and Stripes”
An Eternal Duty
Last week’s Independence Day celebrations, today’s anti-communist protests in Cuba, and my own ponderings on the founding documents of the United States and writings from Thomas Jefferson got me thinking about the duties of defending freedom and liberty, as well as the careful difference between liberty and licentiousness which must be recognized, lest we becomeContinue reading “An Eternal Duty”
The 4th of July: American Independence Day
Today is the 4th of July, American Independence Day. On July 2nd, the Continental Congress voted for Independence, and John Adams remarked the day would be remembered with fireworks and celebrations. The Declaration of Independence was dated July 4th, 1776 and was signed months later on August 2nd. Now, as that event continues to ringContinue reading “The 4th of July: American Independence Day”
Heroes From History: Jesse Brown and Thomas Hudner
Human history is filled with stories about bravery, brotherhood, and the power of friendship. There are many instances throughout the existence of our species which exemplify these traits and inspire us to be better than we are. This is one of those tales, which despite not having the happiest of endings, speaks to the importanceContinue reading “Heroes From History: Jesse Brown and Thomas Hudner”
History of Decoration Day (Memorial Day)
Memorial Day is a national holiday in the United States of America. It was originally known as Decoration Day until the First World War. While many States claim to have been the first to commemorate the holiday, and the exact year of its founding is disputed, most sources officially recognize the holiday as founded inContinue reading “History of Decoration Day (Memorial Day)”
Heroes From History: Valeria Panlilio
Valeria Panlilio was a spy and guerilla fighter for the Allies during the Second World War. Commonly referred to as “Colonel Yay,” she is considered to have been the brains behind the “Marking Guerillas,” a notorious resistance group in the Philippines which fought against the Japanese occupation during the war. She was born in Denver,Continue reading “Heroes From History: Valeria Panlilio”
Iconic Weapons: The M1 Garand
Since we looked at two iconic swords from history this month and one firearm, I thought it appropriate to look at another firearm in keeping with his month’s theme. That firearm we will explore today is the famous M1 Garand. Known officially as the “United States Rifle, Caliber .30, M1,” the M1 Garand is oneContinue reading “Iconic Weapons: The M1 Garand”
Iconic Weapons: Brown Bess
The “Brown Bess” was the common name for the Land Pattern Musket, as well as other flintlock muskets in the same family. It was the weapon of choice of both the British Army and the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War, and was also prominently used in other significant conflicts such as the TexasContinue reading “Iconic Weapons: Brown Bess”
The Pensive Warrior 