From the echoes of the Liberty Bell proclaiming independence to the roar of rockets launching humanity into the space age, July 8–14 has witnessed moments that reshaped nations and redefined possibilities. This week marks the storming of the Bastille, the infamous duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr, and the birth of modern tennis at Wimbledon—each event a turning point in politics, culture, and innovation. Whether through groundbreaking publications like The Wall Street Journal or the unifying power of Live Aid’s global concert, these seven days remind us how history’s boldest leaps often happen under the summer sun. Let’s dive into the stories that made this week unforgettable.
July 8
1776 – The Liberty Bell rang in Philadelphia to summon citizens for the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence.
1889 – The Wall Street Journal was first published, becoming one of the most influential financial newspapers in history.
July 9
1877 – The first-ever Wimbledon Championship began in London, marking the start of the oldest tennis tournament in the world.
1947 – The engagement of Britain’s Princess Elizabeth (future Queen Elizabeth II) to Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten was announced.
July 10
1925 – The Scopes “Monkey” Trial began in Tennessee, debating the teaching of evolution in public schools.
1962 – Telstar, the first active communications satellite, was launched, enabling the first live transatlantic TV broadcast.
July 11
1804 – Aaron Burr fatally shot Alexander Hamilton in a duel in Weehawken, New Jersey.
1960 – Harper Lee’s *To Kill a Mockingbird* was first published, becoming a Pulitzer Prize-winning classic.
July 12
1862 – The Medal of Honor, the U.S. military’s highest decoration, was authorized by Congress.
1979 – Disney’s *The Black Hole* premiered, becoming the first PG-rated Disney film.
July 13
1787 – The Northwest Ordinance was enacted, establishing governance for the U.S. Northwest Territory and banning slavery in the region.
1985 – Live Aid, the historic dual-venue charity concert for famine relief, took place in London and Philadelphia.
July 14
1789 – The Storming of the Bastille occurred in Paris, marking the start of the French Revolution.
1914 – Robert Goddard received a patent for liquid-fueled rockets, paving the way for modern spaceflight.
