Top 5 Historical Events on March 3
March 3rd is a date marked by significant cultural, educational, social justice, criminal, and adventurous milestones in U.S. history. Here are key occurrences on March 3:
1. “The Star-Spangled Banner” Becomes U.S. National Anthem (1931):
On March 3, 1931, “The Star-Spangled Banner” was officially approved as the national anthem of the United States, a watershed moment in the nation’s history. This choice cemented the song’s status as a symbol of American patriotism and tradition, capturing the spirit of liberty and valor that distinguishes the country. The lyrics to the hymn, written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812, were inspired by seeing the American flag flying over Fort McHenry after a night of severe shelling by the British. The adoption of “The Star-Spangled Banner” as the national anthem not only marked this watershed moment, but also brought Americans together under a single banner of pride and national identity, resonating throughout generations as a reminder of the country’s enduring principles and tenacity.
2. Helen Keller Meets Anne Sullivan (1887):
Helen Keller, a young girl who had been blind and deaf since birth, experienced a watershed moment on March 3, 1887, when she met Anne Sullivan, the teacher who would forever change her life. Sullivan’s innovative teaching methods broke down conversational barriers that had previously isolated Keller from the rest of the world. This unique friendship not only benefited Keller’s extraordinary journey to become a well-known author and activist, but it also demonstrated the importance of education, tenacity, and human connections. Keller’s success as a major advocate for the rights of the disabled, as well as her contributions to literature and social action, can be traced back to her life-changing encounter with Sullivan, which represented a watershed point in the history of overcoming obstacles.
3. Rodney King Beating by LAPD Officers (1991):
On March 3, 1991, an African American motorist, Rodney King, was savagely beaten by Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers after a high-speed vehicle chase. The violent confrontation was caught on camera by a bystander and rapidly went viral, sparking a whirlwind of outrage and drawing national and worldwide attention to issues of police brutality and racial inequality in the United States. The gruesome footage shows King being repeatedly assaulted by officers while on the ground, resulting in worldwide condemnation of the officers’ actions and heated debate over institutional racism in law enforcement. The incident, and the subsequent acquittal of the policemen involved, sparked the 1992 Los Angeles riots, underscoring the city’s underlying racial tensions and the urgent need for policing reform. The Rodney King beating remains a watershed episode in American history, representing the continuous fight against racial discrimination and injustice.
4. John Dillinger’s Prison Escape (1934):
On March 3, 1934, John Dillinger, one of America’s most iconic bank robbers, made a spectacular escape from the Crown Point penitentiary in Indiana, solidifying his legacy amid the terrible Great Depression. Dillinger, who had been apprehended and was awaiting trial, cleverly managed to escape from what was deemed a “escape-proof” jail. His daring escape entailed tricking guards with a fake rifle built from wood, demonstrating his cleverness and skill. This episode increased Dillinger’s infamy, which was already high due to his spate of bank robberies, and contributed to the folklore surrounding his criminal exploits. Dillinger’s ability to evade law enforcement and escape from jail in seemingly impossible conditions captivated the public, making him a folk hero to some, even as he was hunted by police.
5. Steve Fossett’s Solo Nonstop Circumnavigation (2005):
On March 3, 2005, American adventurer Steve Fossett made aviation history by being the first person to complete a solo nonstop round of the globe without refueling. After more than 67 hours in the air, Fossett successfully completed his historic mission, landing in Kansas. This astounding voyage not only established a new world record, but also demonstrated the incredible capabilities of aviation endurance and human tenacity. Fossett’s achievement stretched the frontiers of what was previously thought possible in aviation, highlighting technological breakthroughs as well as the everlasting spirit of exploration and adventure. His solo flight around the world without stopping for fuel exemplifies innovation and perseverance, inspiring future generations of adventurers and aviators.
