February 22

On this day. 1732: George Washington was born. He was the first president of the United States, serving between 1789-97. Washington was also the commander of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War from 1775-83. Because of his significant role in the American revolution and in the formation of the United States, Washington is often referred to as "Father of His Country." A few misconceptions about George Washington: The famous "cherry tree incident" never happened, and he never had wooden teeth (he wore a series of dentures made from metal and cow or hippotamus bone.)

On this day. 1974: A man attempted to hijack a plane flying out of Baltimore-Washington Airport and crash into the White House. The attempted hijacking left a police officer and pilot dead. The suspect, Samuel Byck, said he wanted to kill President Nixon. Byck, who called his plot "Operation Pandora Box," committed suicide. The attempted hijacking — the second aviation scare involving the White House in less than a week — prompted Secret Service to upgrade White House air defense systems.

Quote of the day

"Let your discourse with men of business be short and comprehensive." -George Washington

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