1776 - American colonies declare their independence from Great Britain.

1777 - John Paul Jones hoists first Stars and Stripes flag on Ranger at Portsmouth, NH.

1801 - First Presidential Review of U.S. Marine Band and Marines at the White House.

1831 - U.S. concludes indemnity treaty with France.

1842 - First test of electrically operated underwater torpedo sinks gunboat Boxer.

1863 - Confederates surrender of Vicksburg, MS, gives Union control of Mississippi River.