Today in History: John Randolph of Roanoke Born
Today in 1773, John Randolph of Roanoke was born. A Virginian cousin to Thomas Jefferson, Randolph was also related to many other prominent members of the Virginia gentry, such as Richard Bland, Peyton Randolph, and St. George Tucker. Born with a genetic condition...
Last Day in Office: James Madison Vetoes Infrastructure Spending Bill
On the last day of his administration, on March 3, 1817, President James Madison vetoed the Bonus Bill of 1817 – a plan that called for the federal construction of various roads, bridges, and canals throughout the country. In a letter to Congress, the president...
Today in History: John Marshall Becomes Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
Today in 1801, John Marshall was appointed the Chief Justice of the United States by President John Adams. Nominated at a time of severe partisan discord, Adams hoped Marshall’s appointment would help to counteract the influence of the Jeffersonian Republicans and...