History lessons is a grouping of historical stories and tidbits. The topics range from the American Civil War through interesting items from around the world. Please use the comments area to ask questions and make suggestions for future topics.
In stadiums around the U.S., as well as one in Canada, these words will soon resound: “Play ball!” Those venues will be draped with bunting and topped with American flags as the 2015 baseball season debuts. More than a century ago, a tossed baseball set a precedent that endures. It was established by President William… continue
The conclusion of the four-year-long 150th anniversary of the Civil War is a good time to remember how some firemen put down their hoses to pick up flags and firearms. In the spring of 1861, when southern states began to secede, The New York Times reported that “the extreme danger to which the Federal Capital… continue
One hundred and seventy years ago – in 1845 – Florida entered the United States as its 27th member and designed a state flag that failed almost immediately. Ever since, Florida has been fiddling with its banner. The first flag carried a motto – “Let Us Alone” – that many people found offensive. A Vermont… continue
In 1865 – 150 years ago – the U.S. was the scene of two historic moments: the end of the Civil War and the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. It was also the year a college named for the president was founded, a college that possesses a significant flag connected to his election. Chartered in 1865,… continue
One hundred and fifty years ago, in the closing weeks of his life, Abraham Lincoln was focused on the finale of the Civil War – and on flags. On March 17, 1865, for example, he issued an address to the 140th Indiana Volunteer Infantry, which had captured a rebel flag during a battle in North… continue