This Day in History — American History
May 19, 1828 — Tariff of Abominations Signed Into Law - John Quincy Adams
American History Civil War Political Leaders USA President
Signed by President John Quincy Adams on May 19, 1828, the Tariff of Abominations imposed high import duties to protect Northern industries. While supporters praised its economic benefits, Southern states fiercely opposed the law, arguing it favored the North and harmed agriculture, deepening sectional tensions that foreshadowed the Civil War.
May 18, 1917 — American Expeditionary Force Ordered to France - John Pershing
On May 18, 1917, General John J. Pershing and the first units of the American Expeditionary Force were ordered to France, marking America’s direct entry into World War I. The deployment strengthened Allied morale, expanded U.S. influence abroad, and helped shape the outcome of the war and America’s future global role.
May 14, 1804 — Lewis & Clark Expedition Begins - Thomas Jefferson
American History USA President
In 1804, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark launched their historic expedition from St. Louis under President Thomas Jefferson’s orders. Tasked with exploring the Louisiana Territory and finding a route to the Pacific, the Corps of Discovery mapped unknown lands, documented wildlife, and forged relationships with Native American tribes across the frontier.
May 13, 1846 — Congress Declares War on Mexico - James K. Polk
American History USA President
On May 13, 1846, Congress approved President James K. Polk’s request to declare war on Mexico after escalating border disputes along the Rio Grande. The conflict, driven by Manifest Destiny and territorial ambitions, reshaped North America, expanded U.S. territory westward, and intensified national debates over slavery and American expansion.
May 9, 1754 — “Join or Die” Cartoon Published - Benjamin Franklin
American History American Revolution Political Leaders
Benjamin Franklin’s “Join, or Die” cartoon, published on May 9, 1754, became the first political cartoon in an American newspaper. Created during the French and Indian War, the segmented snake symbolized the need for colonial unity and later evolved into a powerful emblem of resistance during the American Revolution.