Ohio History

James A. Garfield Born (June 19, 1831): Future U.S. President James A. Garfield was born in Orange Township, now Moreland Hills, in Cuyahoga County. He remains the only U.S. president born in Northeast Ohio.

Ohio University Founded (June 18, 1804): The Ohio General Assembly established Ohio University in Athens, making it the first university chartered in the Northwest Territory and the first public university in Ohio.

Ohio State University Founded (June 17, 1870): The Ohio General Assembly created the Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College, which later became The Ohio State University, now one of the nation’s largest public universities.

Cedar Point Opens for the Season Under Expanded Operations (June 1870): During June 1870, Cedar Point began its transformation from a simple lakeside recreation area into what would become one of the world’s most famous amusement parks. Early resort operations were underway by this period.

William McKinley Nominated for President (June 18, 1896): Ohio Governor and former Congressman William McKinley secured the Republican presidential nomination in St. Louis. He would go on to win the presidency and become one of Ohio’s most influential political figures.

World History

Magna Carta Sealed (June 15, 1215): King John of England affixed his seal to the Magna Carta at Runnymede, establishing principles of limited government and the rule of law that influenced legal systems around the world.

Battle of Waterloo Fought (June 18, 1815): Napoleon Bonaparte was defeated by British and Prussian forces near Waterloo, Belgium, ending his rule and reshaping the political landscape of Europe.

Sally Ride Becomes First American Woman in Space (June 18, 1983): Astronaut Sally Ride launched aboard Space Shuttle Challenger, becoming the first American woman to travel into space.

Berlin Airlift Begins (June 20, 1948): In response to the Soviet blockade of West Berlin, Western Allies initiated what became the Berlin Airlift, one of the defining humanitarian and logistical operations of the Cold War.

Victoria Becomes Queen of the United Kingdom (June 20, 1837): Following the death of King William IV, Victoria ascended to the throne, beginning a reign that would define an era of British and world history.