Today in 1789, the Constitution of the United States went into effect as the first Federal Congress (9 senators, 13 reps) met in New York. The lawmakers then immediately adjourned due to the lack of a quorum.
Today in 1791, Vermont was admitted to the Union as the 14th state (the first addition to the 13 colonies.)
Today in 1793, George Washington was sworn in for a second term as President of the United States. He gave an inauguration speech of only 133 words – it remains the shortest ever.
Today in 1877, Emile Berliner invented the microphone.
Today in 1917, Montana Republican Jeanette Rankin, the first woman elected to the House of Representatives, took her seat in Congress.
Today in 1933, President Franklin Roosevelt gave his famous inauguration speech, which included the famed line: “We have nothing to fear, but fear itself.”
Today in 1974, the first issue of “People” magazine arrived on newsstands.
Today in 1985, a virtual ban on leaded gasoline was ordered by the EPA, requiring the removal of 90% of the lead from gas by the end of the year.
Today in 1998, the Supreme Court ruled that sexual harassment at work is illegal even when the offender and victim are of the same gender.
Today in 2005, Martha Stewart was released from federal prison near Alderson, West Virginia. She served five months for lying about her sale of ImClone stock in 2001.