Throughout American history, September 18 has been a day of significant political, cultural, and social events that have shaped the nation in various ways. From the founding of iconic institutions to pivotal moments in wars and influential speeches, each event marked on this day reveals the diversity of American history. In this article, we explore key occurrences on September 18 across centuries, offering insights into the importance of this date in the historical narrative of the United States.
What Happened on September 18 in American History?
New Hampshire Becomes a County in Massachusetts Bay Colony (1679)
On September 18, 1679, New Hampshire became a county within the Massachusetts Bay Colony. At the time, New England was in the process of consolidating its territories under the influence of the British Crown, with colonies like Massachusetts expanding their influence over neighboring regions. New Hampshire, initially a separate territory, was brought under Massachusetts’ jurisdiction due to concerns over governance, defense, and relations with Indigenous peoples.
For several decades, New Hampshire remained politically attached to Massachusetts, although the arrangement was not without friction. Local leaders in New Hampshire sought greater autonomy and, in 1741, the colony was finally granted independent status. However, the political consolidation on September 18 laid the groundwork for future tensions between Massachusetts and New Hampshire, as well as setting the stage for the eventual push toward greater colonial autonomy in the wider region.
See Also: What Happened on September 18 in History?
Fort Ticonderoga in New York Opens (1755)
The opening of Fort Ticonderoga in New York on September 18, 1755, marked an important strategic development during the French and Indian War. Originally named Fort Carillon by the French, the fort was designed to control the narrow passage between Lake Champlain and Lake George, a crucial area in the conflict between the French and British forces.
Over the course of the war, Fort Ticonderoga became the site of several key battles, including its famous capture by American forces led by Ethan Allen and Benedict Arnold during the early stages of the American Revolution. The fort’s importance on September 18 lay not only in its immediate military role but also in its symbolic status as a contested location that shifted hands multiple times between British, French, and American forces.
US President George Washington Lays the Cornerstone of the Capitol Building (1793)
On September 18, 1793, President George Washington laid the cornerstone of the United States Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., signifying the birth of the nation’s central government. The construction of the Capitol was part of the broader effort to establish the city of Washington as the new capital of the United States, a city planned to be the political and administrative heart of the young republic.
The event was symbolic of Washington’s vision for a united nation governed by democratic principles. By laying the cornerstone, Washington set in motion the creation of a building that would become the seat of the legislative branch of the U.S. government, where Congress would convene to create laws for generations to come. The importance of September 18 in this context is enduring, as the Capitol has remained a central institution in American governance, representing the democratic values that continue to shape the country.
Tiffany & Co. Founded (1837)
On September 18, 1837, Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young opened a “stationery and fancy goods emporium” in New York City, a store that would later become the world-famous Tiffany & Co. Known for its luxury jewelry and iconic blue boxes, Tiffany & Co. initially focused on a broader range of goods before narrowing its scope to fine jewelry in the mid-19th century.
The founding of Tiffany & Co. on September 18 marked the beginning of an American brand that would become synonymous with elegance and quality. Over the years, the company gained a reputation for innovation in design and craftsmanship, particularly for its engagement rings and diamond jewelry. Today, Tiffany & Co. remains a symbol of luxury and timeless beauty, with its founding date remembered as a significant moment in American commercial history.
First Edition of The New York Times Published (1851)
On September 18, 1851, the first edition of The New York Times was published, marking the start of one of the most influential newspapers in American history. Priced at just two cents per copy, the newspaper aimed to provide accurate, in-depth reporting on political, social, and economic issues. Its founders, Henry Jarvis Raymond and George Jones, set out to establish a publication that would prioritize integrity and journalistic excellence.
Over the years, The New York Times has become known for its comprehensive coverage and its role in shaping public discourse. The newspaper has reported on some of the most critical events in American and world history, from wars and elections to social movements and technological advancements. The founding of The New York Times on September 18 remains a pivotal moment in the evolution of the American media landscape.
Booker T. Washington Delivers the “Atlanta Compromise” Speech (1895)
On September 18, 1895, Booker T. Washington delivered his famous “Atlanta Compromise” speech at the Cotton States and International Exposition in Atlanta, Georgia. Washington, an influential African American educator and leader, urged the Black community to focus on vocational education and economic progress as a path to self-improvement and racial uplift, rather than immediately demanding full civil rights and social equality.
Washington’s speech on September 18 was a turning point in the debate over the best strategy for Black advancement in the post-Reconstruction South. While some praised Washington’s pragmatic approach, others, like W.E.B. Du Bois, criticized it as too accommodating to segregationist policies. The “Atlanta Compromise” remains a key moment in the history of African American leadership and the ongoing struggle for civil rights in the United States.
Scott Joplin’s “Maple Leaf Rag” Copyrighted (1899)
On September 18, 1899, Scott Joplin was granted the copyright for his composition “Maple Leaf Rag,” which would go on to become the most famous and influential ragtime piece in American music history. Joplin, an African American composer and pianist, is often referred to as the “King of Ragtime” due to his role in popularizing the genre during the early 20th century.
“Maple Leaf Rag” was a groundbreaking work that blended African American musical traditions with Western classical elements. The copyright secured on September 18 allowed Joplin to gain widespread recognition and commercial success, although he would only receive modest financial rewards during his lifetime. Today, “Maple Leaf Rag” is celebrated as a defining work of American music and a testament to the cultural contributions of African Americans.
The Central Intelligence Agency Officially Established (1947)
On September 18, 1947, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) officially came into existence following its establishment by President Harry S. Truman earlier that year. The creation of the CIA was part of the National Security Act of 1947, which reorganized the U.S. government’s intelligence and military functions in response to the emerging Cold War.
The CIA’s founding on September 18 marked the beginning of a new era in American foreign policy and national security. Tasked with gathering intelligence and conducting covert operations, the CIA became a central player in the U.S. government’s efforts to counter Soviet influence and promote American interests abroad. Over the decades, the agency has been involved in numerous high-stakes operations, both successful and controversial, and its role continues to be critical in shaping U.S. global strategy.
Rev. Sun Myung Moon Holds “God Bless America” Convention (1976)
On September 18, 1976, Reverend Sun Myung Moon held the “God Bless America” convention at Yankee Stadium in New York City. Moon, the founder of the Unification Church, used the event to promote his religious and political views, which combined elements of Christianity with a call for global peace and unity. The event was attended by tens of thousands of followers and was part of Moon’s broader efforts to expand his influence in the United States.
The “God Bless America” convention on September 18 was a notable moment in the rise of the Unification Church and its controversial leader. While Moon’s movement gained a significant following, it was also criticized for its unorthodox teachings and alleged cult-like practices. The event remains a significant chapter in the history of religious movements in the United States.
Conclusion
The events of September 18 in American history reflect a wide array of significant moments that have shaped the nation’s political, cultural, and social landscape. From early colonial developments and the founding of key institutions to important speeches, legal milestones, and cultural achievements, this date highlights the diversity and complexity of the American historical experience. By examining these events, we gain a deeper understanding of the forces that have influenced the United States over time.