On this day: March 31
March 31 marks an important day in history with several significant events that have taken place over the years. Let’s take a look at some of the key moments that have occurred on this day.
1776: Abigail Adams writes a letter to her husband John Adams
On March 31, 1776, Abigail Adams wrote a famous letter to her husband John Adams, who was a delegate to the Continental Congress. In the letter, she urged him to “remember the ladies” and to consider women’s rights in the new laws being drafted for the fledgling United States. This letter is now seen as an early example of feminist thought in America.
1889: The Eiffel Tower is officially opened
On March 31, 1889, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France was officially opened to the public. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the iconic tower quickly became a symbol of the city and a popular tourist attraction. At the time of its completion, it was the tallest man-made structure in the world.
1917: The United States takes possession of the Danish West Indies
On March 31, 1917, the United States formally took possession of the Danish West Indies, which are now known as the U.S. Virgin Islands. The islands had been purchased from Denmark for $25 million in gold. This acquisition marked an important expansion of American territory in the Caribbean.
1966: The Soviet Union launches Luna 10
On March 31, 1966, the Soviet Union successfully launched Luna 10, which became the first spacecraft to orbit the moon. The mission provided valuable data about the lunar surface and helped pave the way for future moon missions, including the Apollo program led by the United States.
1995: Selena Quintanilla-Perez is tragically killed
On March 31, 1995, Selena Quintanilla-Perez, a popular Tejano music singer, was tragically killed by her fan club president in Corpus Christi, Texas. The murder shocked fans around the world and led to an outpouring of grief. Selena’s music and legacy continue to be celebrated to this day.
2010: The Affordable Care Act is signed into law
On March 31, 2010, President Barack Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at reforming the healthcare system in the United States. The law expanded access to healthcare for millions of Americans and introduced important provisions such as requiring insurance companies to cover pre-existing conditions.
Overall, March 31 has been a day of important events and milestones throughout history. From the opening of the Eiffel Tower to the signing of the Affordable Care Act, this day has seen a wide range of significant moments that have shaped the world we live in today.
