October 30, 1735

John Adams, second president of the United States and Founding Father was born on this day.

October 26, 1776

Franklin sails to France on a mission to negotiate an alliance between France and America.

September 25, 1638

The first printing press is in operation in America.

September 24, 1786

Jupiter Hammon, an African-American poet, delivered the “Address to the Negroes of the State of New York” advocating for the emancipation of slaves.

August 22, 1762

Ann Franklin, sister-in-law of Benjamin Franklin, became one of the first female newspaper editors in the United States.

August 17, 1790

The United States capital moves from New York City to its temporary home in Philadelphia.

July 26, 1775

The United States Post Office is established. Benjamin Franklin was named the first Postmaster General.

July 8, 1776

The first public reading of the Declaration of Independence takes place in Philadelphia.

June 29, 1767

Britain levied the Townshend Revenue Act on the American colonies.

June 20, 1782

Congress approves the Great Seal of the United States of America.