America's 250th Anniversary: Monumental Moments in February.

Continuing our monthly celebration leading up to America's 250th Anniversary, February is another pivotal and important month for historic significance, groundbreaking achievement, and American spirit.

States and Stars: February's Contributions to Our Nation

This month marks the ratification of the 15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1870, a monumental step forward that protected the right to vote regardless of race, color, or previous condition of servitude. February also celebrates Hiram Rhoades Revels, who after his dedicated military service became the first African American to serve in the U.S. Congress in 1870—a barrier-breaking moment that opened doors for generations to come.

February 1953 brought us the discovery of DNA's double helix structure by American molecular biologist James Watson and British physicist and molecular biologist Francis Crick, unlocking the very blueprint of life itself. And reaching for the stars, February 1995 saw Dr. Bernard Harris make history as the first African American to walk in space, reminding us that American dreams truly know no bounds. These milestones offer our K-8 students powerful examples of how courage, perseverance, and curiosity have continually pushed our nation forward.

The "February fabric" of America is woven even richer by the states that joined our Union during this month, each adding unique threads to our national tapestry. Massachusetts, one of our original thirteen colonies, ratified the Constitution in February 1788, bringing its revolutionary spirit and commitment to education into our founding framework. Oregon joined as the 33rd state on February 14, 1859, expanding our nation's reach to the Pacific Northwest with its pioneering spirit and natural beauty. Arizona became our 48th state on February 14, 1912, contributing its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes to complete the continental United States as we know it today.

February is also a celebration of visionary Americans whose birthdays we honor: Thomas Edison whose inventive genius illuminated the world; George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, whose foundational leadership steered our nation through its earliest and most challenging days; and the transformative courage of Susan B. Anthony and Rosa Parks, who refused to accept inequality and changed the course of American history.

As we approach our nation's 250th birthday, these February stories remind us that progress is built one brave act, one brilliant idea, and one determined individual at a time—lessons that inspire the next generation of American citizens in our classrooms and homes today.

Join us and follow along on social media as we delve into these February narratives, uncovering the stories that continue to resonate as we commemorate 250 years of American history!

Download the infographic below to share notable Americans' birthdays, monumental moments, and states' anniversaries with your students.

Download Image