| On this date in: |
| 1790 |
The first successful cotton mill in the United States began operating at Pawtucket, R.I. |
| 1803 |
The Louisiana Purchase was completed as the territory was formally transferred from France to the United States during ceremonies in New Orleans. |
| 1864 |
Confederate forces evacuated Savannah, Ga., as Union Gen. William T. Sherman continued his “March to the Sea.” |
| 1879 |
Thomas Edison privately demonstrated his incandescent light at Menlo Park, N.J. |
| 1946 |
The Frank Capra film “It’s A Wonderful Life” had a preview showing for charity at New York City’s Globe Theatre, a day before its official premiere. |
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| AP Photo |
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| 1963 |
The Berlin Wall was opened for the first time to West Berliners, who were allowed one-day visits to relatives in the Eastern sector for the holidays. |
| 1976 |
Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley died at age 74. |
| 1989 |
The United States sent troops into Panama to topple the government of Manuel Noriega. |
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| AP Photo/John Gaps III |
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| 1999 |
The Vermont Supreme Court ruled that homosexual couples are entitled to the same benefits and protections as wedded couples. |
| 2002 |
Trent Lott resigned as Senate Republican leader two weeks after igniting a political firestorm with racially charged remarks. |
| 2005 |
New York City transit workers began a three-day strike. |
