On May 13, 1846, the United States declared war on Mexico. The declaration came as a result of Mexican troops crossing the Rio Grande onto American soil. President James Knox Polk stated that, "Mexico's aggression had shed American blood on American soil." Polk intended to take Mexican territory in California by force. Polk was considered the best wartime president up to his time.

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May 8, 1945, V-E day! Today is the anniversary of the official victory for the War in Europe during World War II. On May 7th, Germany surrendered and May 8th was declared Victory in Europe Day. Sadly, each year marks the passing of numerous veterans of this war. We must always keep their memory and their courageous achievements alive.

Today, May 5, 1961, Alan B. Shepard Jr. became America's first astronaut as he made a 15-minute flight in a space capsule launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida adding legitimatimacy to the United States Space Program. Shepard was named a Rear Admiral and by the end of his career had logged 216 hours and 57 minutes in space. He died on July 21, 1998.

The Battle of Chancellorsville occurred between April 30 and May 6, 1863. It ended in a Confederate victory. However, many historians believe that the loss of Stonewall Jackson who was wounded on May 2, was a serious blow to the Confederacy during the Civil War.

• Overview of the Civil War
• Top Six Civil War Movies
• Civil War Quiz
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The Declaration of Independence was created more than 200 years ago yet still has relevance in today's world. It has profoundly affected not only the history of the United States but of other countries who have claimed independence throughout the world. Here is a study guide that provides you with the background leading up to the document, information about the document, study resources and questions, and a quiz to see how much you know about it. Enjoy!

On April 27, 1937, after four years of construction, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco was opened for travel between Marin County and San Francisco. The bridge featured the world’s tallest bridge towers rising up to 746 feet tall. The bridge would become the symbol of San Francisco.

The HBO miniseries on John Adams based on the book John Adams by David McCullough has met with critical acclaim. Adams truly was a fascinating character and in many ways an underrated president. This top 10 list of things to know about John Adams gives an overview the the key items that you should know when studying the second president of the United States.

More on John Adams

• John Adams Biography
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On April 21, 1790, Benjamin Franklin was buried in what was considered one of the most splendid funerals ever seen in Philadelphia. One of America's founding fathers, Franklin's role in drafting the Declaration of Independence is still remembered today.

• Benjamin Franklin Biography
• Top Ten Founding Fathers
• Declaration of Independence Quiz
• American Revolution
• Top Six Items You Might Not Know Were in the Constitution

On April 18, 1906, at 5:13 a.m., San Francisco was the target of the most violent earthquake ever recorded in its history. Recently in the news has been talk of how prepared San Francisco would be if one hit there again today. Visit the Historical Disasters page for more information of devastating events of our past.

Hindenburg Disaster