French government formally recognizes the United States On this day in history, December 17, 1777, the French government formally recognizes the United States for the first time. France had been secretly…
Boston Tea Party takes place On this day in history, December 16, 1773, the Boston Tea Party takes place when a group of angry patriots dump the tea from three ships…
United States ratifies the Bill of Rights On this day in history, December 15, 1791, the United States ratifies the Bill of Rights. On December 15, 1791, Virginia became the 10th…
George Washington dies at Mount Vernon On this day in history, December 14, 1799, George Washington dies at Mount Vernon after contracting a respiratory illness after being outdoors in the rain.…
General Charles Lee is captured at Basking Ridge On this day in history, December 13, 1776, General Charles Lee is captured at Basking Ridge, New Jersey after an overnight stay at…
Continental Congress leaves Philadelphia fearing British invasion On this day in history, December 12, 1776, the Continental Congress leaves Philadelphia fearing a British invasion. George Washington's Continental Army was defeated in…
The Battle of Matson's Ford stops Washington's trek to Valley Forge On this day in history, December 11, 1777, the Battle of Matson's Ford stops Washington's trek to Valley Forge. After…
John Jay is elected President of the Continental Congress On this day in history, December 10, 1778, John Jay is elected President of the Continental Congress, making him the 5th national…
American Victory at the Battle of Great Bridge On this day in history, December 9, 1775, an American victory at the Battle of Great Bridge sets the stage for the British…
Margaret Kemble and Thomas Gage are married On this day in history, December 8, 1758, Margaret Kemble and Thomas Gage are married. Thomas Gage would eventually be in command of the…