Today in history: America declares war on England
Think of it as America's second war of independence
June 30, 1812: Twelve days after Congress, at President James Madison's request, declared war on Britain, the president called for emergency commissions for new military officers. In 1812, the U.S. Army and Navy was an all-volunteer force (as it is today). The U.S. was not as strong, either in numbers or arms, as the British; there was a particular lack of officers who could lead. Madison urged Congress to increase emergency commissions of military officers, adjutants, quartermasters, inspectors, paymasters, and engineers. By the way, among the troops who would distinguish themselves in the War of 1812 (often called America's second war of independence) were two future presidents: William Henry Harrison and Andrew Jackson.
June 30, 1921: President Harding appointed former President Taft to be Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Taft was easily confirmed by the Senate; he became the only person in history to head both the executive and judicial branches of government.
June 30, 1950: President Truman agreed to send U.S. ground forces to Korea; all U.N. forces there were put under U.S. command. Sandwiched between WWII and Vietnam, the Korean War — "the forgotten war" — killed 36,516 Americans in three years.
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June 30, 1977: President Carter killed a major defense program — the B-1 bomber — angering conservatives.
Quote of the day
"It would be judicious to act with magnanimity towards a prostrate foe." –Zachary Taylor
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