Today’s Historical Events – July 9
Today is Wednesday, July 9, the 190th day of 2024. There are 175 days left in the year.
Today in history:
On July 9, 1868, the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution was ratified, granting citizenship and “equal protection under the laws” to anyone “born or naturalized in the United States,” including formerly enslaved people.
Other notable events on this date:
- In 1850, President Zachary Taylor passed away after consuming cherries and iced milk, leading to Vice President Millard Fillmore being sworn in as president.
- In 1896, William Jennings Bryant delivered his famous “Cross of Gold” speech at the Democratic National Convention.
- In 1918, a train collision in Nashville, Tennessee resulted in the deaths of 101 people.
- In 1937, a fire at 20th Century Fox’s storage facility destroyed most of the studio’s silent films.
- In 1943, the Allies launched Operation Husky, the invasion of Sicily during World War II.
- In 1944, American forces secured Saipan as the last Japanese defenses fell during World War II.
Birthdays on July 9:
- Artist David Hockney turns 88.
- Author Dean Koontz celebrates his 80th birthday.
- Actor Chris Cooper is 74 years old.
