1. February 4, 1783 – Preliminary Peace Treaty Signed Ending the American Revolutionary War
On February 4, 1783, preliminary articles of peace were signed in Paris between Great Britain and the United States, marking the beginning of the end of the American Revolutionary War. This treaty recognized American independence and set the stage for formal peace negotiations. The signing was a crucial diplomatic milestone, as it allowed both nations to move toward a formal treaty of peace. The preliminary treaty addressed issues such as territorial boundaries and fishing rights. It paved the way for the Treaty of Paris, which was officially signed later that year in September.
2. February 4, 1945 – Yalta Conference Begins
The Yalta Conference began on February 4, 1945, during World War II, involving the leaders of the Allied powers: Franklin D. Roosevelt of the United States, Winston Churchill of the United Kingdom, and Joseph Stalin of the Soviet Union. The conference was held in the Crimea region of the Soviet Union and was aimed at discussing the post-war reorganization of Europe and the defeat of Nazi Germany. Key decisions included plans for the division of Germany into occupation zones and the establishment of the United Nations. The leaders also discussed the fate of Eastern European countries and the future political structure of Poland. The agreements made at Yalta shaped much of the geopolitical landscape of the post-war world.
3. February 4, 1789 – George Washington Elected as the First President of the United States
On February 4, 1789, George Washington was unanimously elected as the first President of the United States by the Electoral College. This historic event marked the beginning of the American presidential system under the new Constitution. Washington’s election was a moment of unity and hope for the fledgling nation, as he was widely respected for his leadership during the Revolutionary War. He was inaugurated later that year on April 30 in New York City, which was the first capital of the United States. Washington’s presidency set many precedents for future leaders and helped establish the role of the executive branch in American government.
4. February 4, 1922 – The Lincoln Memorial is Dedicated
The Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., was officially dedicated on February 4, 1922. The monument honors Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, and symbolizes his legacy of preserving the Union during the Civil War and ending slavery. The dedication ceremony was attended by thousands, including President Warren G. Harding. The memorial features a large seated sculpture of Lincoln and inscriptions of two of his most famous speeches: the Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address. It has since become an iconic symbol of American ideals and a site for civil rights movements.
5. February 4, 2004 – Facebook Founded
Facebook, the social media giant, was founded on February 4, 2004, by Mark Zuckerberg and his college roommates at Harvard University. Initially created as a networking site for Harvard students, it quickly expanded to other universities and eventually to the general public. Facebook revolutionized the way people connect and communicate online, introducing features such as the News Feed, Likes, and social networking algorithms. Over time, it became one of the largest and most influential social media platforms globally. Facebook’s impact on social interactions, marketing, politics, and media has been profound and continues to evolve.
6. February 4, 1789 – The U.S. House of Representatives Holds Its First Session
On February 4, 1789, the newly formed United States House of Representatives convened its first session in New York City, which was then the temporary capital of the United States. This marked a significant step in the implementation of the U.S. Constitution and the establishment of the federal government. The House was tasked with creating laws, representing the people, and working alongside the Senate and the President. The first Speaker of the House, Frederick Muhlenberg, was elected during this session. The event symbolized the beginning of American legislative governance under the new constitutional framework.
7. February 4, 1913 – The 16th Amendment is Ratified, Allowing Federal Income Tax
The 16th Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified on February 4, 1913, granting Congress the power to levy an income tax without apportioning it among the states or basing it on the U.S. Census. This amendment was a turning point in American fiscal policy, enabling the federal government to generate revenue directly from individuals and corporations. It helped fund public services, infrastructure, and government programs. Prior to this, the federal government relied heavily on tariffs and excise taxes, which were less reliable sources of income. The introduction of the income tax system had a lasting impact on the economy and government operations.
8. February 4, 1948 – Ceylon (Sri Lanka) Gains Independence from Britain
On February 4, 1948, Ceylon, now known as Sri Lanka, gained independence from British colonial rule. This marked the end of nearly 150 years of British control and the beginning of self-governance for the island nation. The independence was achieved peacefully through negotiations and constitutional reforms. Ceylon became a dominion within the Commonwealth, with a parliamentary system modeled on the British system. This day is celebrated annually as Independence Day in Sri Lanka, recognizing its sovereignty and national identity.
9. February 4, 1929 – The Lateran Treaty is Signed
The Lateran Treaty was signed on February 4, 1929, between the Kingdom of Italy and the Holy See, establishing Vatican City as an independent sovereign state. The treaty resolved the “Roman Question,” which had existed since the unification of Italy in 1870 when the Papal States were annexed. It recognized the Pope’s sovereignty over Vatican City, a tiny territory within Rome, and regulated the relationship between Italy and the Catholic Church. The treaty also included financial compensation to the Church for the loss of its former territories. This agreement has shaped the political and religious landscape of Italy and the Vatican ever since.
10. February 4, 1969 – The Boeing 747 Makes Its First Test Flight
The Boeing 747, also known as the “Jumbo Jet,” made its first test flight on February 4, 1969. This aircraft was revolutionary in aviation history due to its size, capacity, and range, transforming commercial air travel. The 747 could carry more passengers than any previous airliner, making air travel more affordable and accessible to the masses. Its distinctive humpbacked design allowed for a spacious upper deck, which became a signature feature. The success of the 747 helped establish Boeing as a leader in the aerospace industry and influenced the development of future wide-body jets.