1776 – American Revolutionary War: the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge in North Carolina breaks up a Loyalist militia. You have to understand that there are a lot of people who will fight to keep the status quo.

1801 – Pursuant to the District of Columbia Organic Act of 1801, Washington, D.C. is placed under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Congress. From that bright hope, we come to today’s “wretched hive of scum and villainy.”

1844 – The Dominican Republic gains independence from Haiti. This is a brilliant move. Like “night” separating from “day”.

1864 – American Civil War: The first Northern prisoners arrive at the Confederate prison at Andersonville, Georgia.

1933 – Reichstag fire: Germany’s parliament building in Berlin, the Reichstag, is set on fire. I halfway expect something of similar nature here before long. Cynical? Who, me?

1951 – The Twenty-second Amendment to the United States Constitution, limiting Presidents to two terms, is ratified. If only it included Congress.

1986 – The United States Senate allows its debates to be televised on a trial basis, with unexpected consequences. Today the most dangerous place in Washington is between Chuck Schumer and a TV camera. Your viewing pleasure will be enhanced if you play “Yakety Sax’ as an accompaniment.