Fun Facts About John Adams
John Adams was America’s second president, but did you know he was also a lawyer, a bookworm, and even a prankster? Here are six fun and little-known facts about John Adams that kids will love!
Thomas Jefferson and the National Road: America’s First Highway
On March 14, 1806, President Thomas Jefferson made history by signing legislation that authorized the construction of the National Road, the first major highway built by the federal government in the United States. This groundbreaking project paved the way—literally—for westward expansion and economic growth, shaping the future of transportation in America.
Boston Brown Bread Muffins
In colonial Boston, families like John and Abigail Adams enjoyed hearty, simple breads made with local ingredients. This kid-friendly version of Boston Brown Bread turns the traditional loaf into fun, easy-to-make muffins!
Andrew Jackson and the Battle of New Orleans: The Victory That Made a President
The Battle of New Orleans is one of the most legendary battles in U.S. history. Fought on January 8, 1815, it was the final major battle of the War of 1812—and it made General Andrew Jackson a national hero. Even though the war had technically ended before the battle took place, Jackson’s leadership and decisive victory propelled him into the national spotlight, paving the way for his presidency.
Benjamin Harrison and the Shocking Story of the White House’s First Electric Lights
When Benjamin Harrison became the 23rd president of the United States in 1889, the White House was on the brink of a major upgrade—electricity! But while this innovation may seem ordinary today, it was anything but routine for President Harrison and his family. In fact, they were so afraid of the new electric lights that they sometimes refused to touch the switches!
James Monroe’s Last Annual Message to Congress: The End of an Era
On March 12, 1824, President James Monroe delivered his last annual message to Congress, marking the final chapter of his presidency. Monroe, the fifth president of the United States, is best known for the Monroe Doctrine, a landmark foreign policy that warned European nations against further colonization or interference in the Americas. However, his presidency was also defined by a period of national unity known as the “Era of Good Feelings.”
James K. Polk and the First Performance of “Hail to the Chief” – A Presidential Tradition Begins
When you hear "Hail to the Chief," you immediately think of the President of the United States making an entrance. But did you know that this famous presidential tune was first played for James K. Polk on March 11, 1845?
George Washington’s Honey Cornbread Muffins
George Washington loved simple, hearty foods made with ingredients from his farm. Cornbread was a common dish in colonial times, and Washington had a sweet tooth—he especially loved honey! Try this easy, kid-friendly recipe to bake delicious Honey Cornbread Muffins, just like something Washington might have enjoyed at Mount Vernon.
Abraham Lincoln: The Only U.S. President with a Patent
When you think of Abraham Lincoln, you probably picture him as the president who led the nation through the Civil War, gave the Gettysburg Address, and ended slavery with the Emancipation Proclamation. But did you know that Lincoln was also an inventor? In fact, he remains the only U.S. president to ever receive a patent!
Thomas Jefferson’s Colonial Apple Dumplings
Thomas Jefferson loved French cuisine, but he also enjoyed classic American treats. These Colonial Apple Dumplings are a simple and fun dessert kids can help make—just like treats enjoyed in Jefferson’s time!
Fun Facts About George Washington
George Washington was America’s first president, but did you know he was also a dog lover, a dancing pro, and even a skilled spy master? Here are six fun and little-known facts about George Washington that kids will love!
March 7, 1850: Daniel Webster’s Famous Speech and the Compromise of 1850
On March 7, 1850, Senator Daniel Webster delivered one of the most influential speeches in American history. His “Seventh of March Speech” was a passionate plea to preserve the Union and avoid civil war. Webster’s support for the Compromise of 1850 was controversial, but it played a key role in delaying the inevitable conflict between the North and South.
John Adams and the Boston Massacre: A President’s Fight for Justice
On March 5, 1770, one of the most pivotal events in American history unfolded—the Boston Massacre. This deadly clash between British soldiers and American colonists resulted in five deaths and ignited tensions leading up to the American Revolution. But did you know that John Adams, who later became the 2nd President of the United States, played a surprising role in this event?
March 4: The Original Inauguration Day – A Historic Presidential Tradition
For over 140 years, March 4 was Inauguration Day in the United States. From Thomas Jefferson in 1801 to Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933, newly elected presidents took the oath of office on this historic date. But why was March 4 chosen, and why did it change?
The Star-Spangled Banner Becomes the National Anthem: A Presidential Decision
On March 3, 1931, President Herbert Hoover signed a law officially designating "The Star-Spangled Banner" as the national anthem of the United States. While it had been a beloved patriotic song for over a century, it wasn't until Hoover's signature that it became the nation's official anthem.
Abraham Lincoln’s Speech on February 28, 1854: The Beginning of His Fight Against Slavery
On February 28, 1854, a relatively unknown politician from Illinois, Abraham Lincoln, delivered a powerful speech that would set him on the path to the presidency. While not as well-known as his Gettysburg Address, this speech in Bloomington, Illinois was a critical moment in Lincoln’s political career, as he voiced his opposition to the controversial Kansas-Nebraska Act.
The 22nd Amendment: How February 27 Changed U.S. Presidential History
On February 27, 1951, the United States officially set a two-term limit for presidents with the ratification of the 22nd Amendment. This landmark decision changed the course of American leadership forever.
Theodore Roosevelt and the First Presidential Car Ride – February 26, 1902
On February 26, 1902, President Theodore Roosevelt made history by becoming the first sitting U.S. president to ride in an automobile. This event marked a turning point in presidential transportation, as the era of horse-drawn carriages at the White House began to fade and modern vehicles took the stage.
George Washington’s First Cabinet Meeting: The Birth of Presidential Advisers
On February 25, 1793, President George Washington made history by holding the first official Cabinet meeting in U.S. history. This meeting, held at the President’s residence in Philadelphia (then the nation’s capital), brought together four key figures who helped shape the early government.
Andrew Johnson: The First Impeached U.S. President – February 24, 1868
On February 24, 1868, President Andrew Johnson made history as the first U.S. president to be impeached. The House of Representatives charged him with violating the Tenure of Office Act after he removed Secretary of War Edwin Stanton without congressional approval. This event marked a significant moment in presidential history, shaping the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches.