Southwestern Spat
May 13, 1846 - The United States declared war on Mexico, officially beginning the Mexican-American War. Tensions had been high between the two
nations after the United
States annexed
Texas as the 28th State in 1845. Prior
to becoming a state Texas considered itself an independent republic having
defeating the Mexican army during the Texas Revolution in 1836. However Mexico still claimed Texas as part of its territory. After numerous diplomatic
efforts between the nations failed to resolve the matter and a skirmish near
the border left 16 American soldiers dead, President James K. Polk convinced
members of Congress to declare war. The conflict lasted just under two years
before the United
States
emerged victorious. Along with Texas, the victory also secured the territory that now makes
up all of California, Nevada, Utah and most of Arizona as well as portions of Colorado and Wyoming.
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Toddler Monarchy
May 14, 1643 - Four-year-old Louis XIV became King of France
upon the death of his father, Louis XIII. His reign lasted seventy-two years,
three months, and eighteen days, and is the longest documented reign of any
European monarch. Upon his death he was succeeded by his five-year-old
great-grandson who became Louis XV. All his intermediate heirs had already predeceased
him.
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Flying Animation
 May 15, 1928 - The Walt Disney character Mickey Mouse premiered
in his first cartoon, Plane Crazy. The six-minute short film shows Mickey flying
an airplane while attempting to steal a kiss from Minnie Mouse. Critics have
described the Mickey portrayed in the film as mischievous, amorous, and more
complex than his later self. You can watch
Mickey's premier here. |
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2 All-Beef Patties, Special Sauce...
May 15, 1940 - The very first McDonald's restaurant was opened along
Route 66 in San
Bernardino, California by Richard and Maurice McDonald. The brothers were later
bought out by Ray Kroc, who began franchising McDonald's restaurants and
created the corporation that exists today. Since that time McDonald's has grown
to more than 31,000 restaurants in 119 countries serving an estimated 47
million customers daily. The location of the first restaurant is now a
McDonald's themed museum. |
