24th of April – American Minute – Historical Events
The British set fire to the Library of Congress during the War of 1812, burning hundreds of books. Thomas Jefferson provided over 6,400 volumes that contributed to its 500 million miles of shelves.
22nd of April – American Minute – Historical Events
The Oklahoma Land Rush began on April 22, 1889. Within 9 hours two million acres were taken by settlers. In 1987 President Ronald Reagan designated the "Trail of Tears" to honor those who died.
19th of April – American Minute – Historical Events
On this day in 1775, the British planned to arrest John Hancock and Tea Party leader, Samuel Adams. American "Minutemen," confronted the British on Lexington Green and Concord's Old North Bridge.
16th of April – American Minute – Historical Events
1859, French historian Alexis de Tocqueville died. After nine months of traveling the United States, he wrote Democracy in America in 1835, which has been described as "the most comprehensive...analysis of character and society in America ever written."
18th of April – American Minute – Historical Events
William Brewster died 1644. His position as a leader of the Pilgrim church in England led to his imprisonment. Fleeing to Holland, he later sailed with the Pilgrims to America, signed the Mayflower Compact and was elected an elder.
17th of April – American Minute – Historical Events
1790, the son of a poor candle-maker died. The 15th of 17 children, he retired at age 42, then taught himself five languages, invented the lighting rod, which earned him degrees from Harvard and Yale.