5Important Days in US History by Kirlew, Kaliah (Traphagen School - Grade 08 Student)

February 18, 1815

25342_28_1 — 2024-05-21 12:05:38 UTC

On this day the War of 1812 ended. This war was between the British and America. The war started because American merchants were experiencing impressment from British soldiers and Britain interfering with American trade. America did not win the war. However, they did not lose which made it seem that they were strong enough to withstand Great Britain. The war increased the pride of the Americans and raised the reputation of America. This was a turning point in America as it led to the creation of the Star Sprangled banner poem by Francis Key Scott which is now the national anthem of America.

Louisiana Purchase April 30 1803

25342_28_1 — 2024-05-21 23:31:28 UTC

This piece of land was purchased by Jefferson from the French. During this time the French were at war and needed money while the U.S. was trying to expand. Even though it was unconstitutional for the president to purchase land Jefferson did it anyways, which doubled the size of the U.S.

Battle of Saratoga October 7, 1777

25342_28_1 — 2024-05-21 23:37:32 UTC

This battle was between America and the British. The battle took place in New York. The U.S. wanted to officially get rid of British rule however they needed help from France. France was hesitant at first as they thought that the U.S. would not stand a chance against Britain (the strongest force in the world at this time). With the U.S. victory of the battle, the French were convinced to aid them.

Attack on Pearl Harbor 12-7-1941

25342_28_1 — 2024-05-21 23:54:03 UTC

After WWI the U.S. decided not to get involved in European affairs. So when WWI broke out the U.S. had no plans of joining, until the attack on Pearl Harbor. On December 7th, 1941 the Japanese decided to bomb Pearl Harbor, this led to the U.S. declaring war on Japan on December 8, 1941 hence the U.S. joined WWII. After the U.S. joined WWII they tested their newly advanced weapon on Japan (atomic bomb). The atomic bomb killed many Japanese including civilians. The U.S. gave Japan a chance to surrender before dropping another one on its city. After the second one was dropped Japan gave up. The U.S. was now seen as a Great World Power with an undefeatable weapon. This advancement then further contributed to the Cold War between the Soviet Union and America.

I Have A Dream Speech August 28, 1963

25342_28_1 — 2024-05-22 00:15:02 UTC

On this day African American Marched on Washington which was led by Martin Luther King Jr. Martin Luther King gave this speech in order to achieve the equality of African Americans. The speech encouraged many African Americans to join the civil rights movement and stand up for their rights. The speech was a factor that contributed to the creation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Voting Rights Act of 1965 which ended segregation