On this day: July 3
1775 – George Washington Assumes Command of Continental Army
On July 3, 1775, George Washington assumed command of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. Washington’s leadership and strategic skills would prove crucial in securing American independence from British rule.
1863 – The Battle of Gettysburg Begins
The Battle of Gettysburg, one of the most famous and important battles of the American Civil War, began on July 3, 1863. The battle would last for three days and result in a decisive Union victory, turning the tide of the war in favor of the North.
1890 – Idaho Becomes the 43rd State
On July 3, 1890, Idaho officially became the 43rd state in the United States. Known for its natural beauty and rich history, Idaho is home to diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers.
1938 – President Franklin D. Roosevelt Attends the Dedication of Mount Rushmore
On July 3, 1938, President Franklin D. Roosevelt attended the dedication of Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. The iconic monument features the faces of four American presidents – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt – carved into the granite cliffs of the Black Hills.
1962 – Algeria Gains Independence from France
On July 3, 1962, Algeria officially gained independence from France after a long and bloody war of liberation. The end of French rule marked a significant moment in the history of decolonization in Africa.
1988 – The USS Vincennes Shoots Down Iranian Airliner
On July 3, 1988, the USS Vincennes, a United States Navy guided missile cruiser, mistakenly shot down Iran Air Flight 655 over the Persian Gulf, killing all 290 passengers and crew on board. The incident strained relations between the United States and Iran.
2005 – Live 8 Concerts Raise Awareness for Global Poverty
On July 3, 2005, a series of Live 8 concerts were held around the world to raise awareness and funds to combat global poverty. The concerts, organized by musician Bob Geldof, featured performances by some of the biggest names in music and helped shine a spotlight on the issue of poverty in developing countries.
2013 – Egypt’s President Mohamed Morsi Is Ousted in a Military Coup
On July 3, 2013, Egypt’s first democratically elected president, Mohamed Morsi, was ousted in a military coup led by General Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. The coup followed mass protests against Morsi’s government and marked a turbulent period in Egypt’s recent history.
