This Day in History
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
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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 12, 1984 — Nelson Mandela Reunites with Winnie After 22 Years
On May 12, 1984, Nelson Mandela reunited with his wife Winnie Mandela for the first time in 22 years while imprisoned under South Africa’s apartheid regime. Their emotional meeting symbolized resilience, sacrifice, and hope during the global struggle against racial segregation, injustice, and political oppression in one of history’s defining freedom movements.
May 11, 1924 — Robert Frost Wins Pulitzer Prize for New Hampshire
19th Century Writers American Literature Poet Poetry
Robert Frost won the Pulitzer Prize for poetry on May 11, 1924, for New Hampshire: A Poem with Notes and Grace Notes. The award established Frost as a leading voice in American literature, celebrating his ability to transform rural New England life into timeless poetry filled with insight, emotion, and philosophical depth.
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.