#24: June 8-14

June 9, 1934 – The Quacky Beginning of Donald Duck

On June 9, 1934, a feisty and funny duck made his big debut in the cartoon The Wise Little Hen. That duck was none other than Donald Duck, who would go on to become one of Disney’s most beloved and iconic characters. Known for his sailor outfit, short temper, and distinctive voice, Donald quickly waddled his way into the hearts of audiences around the world. Fun fact: Donald Duck has appeared in more films than any other Disney character—even more than Mickey Mouse!

June 10, 1752 – Kites, Keys, and a Spark of Genius

On June 10, 1752, Benjamin Franklin carried out one of the most famous experiments in history—he flew a kite during a thunderstorm to prove that lightning is a form of electricity. With a metal key tied to the kite string, he bravely tested his theory, helping to unlock the mysteries of electrical energy. His bold experiment wasn’t just a spark of genius—it helped lead to the invention of the lightning rod, which still protects buildings and people during storms today. Fun fact: Despite the danger, Franklin wasn’t actually struck by lightning—if he had been, the experiment might have ended very differently! Listen to Episode 109: the Inventive Life of Benjamin Franklin.

June 12, 1776 – Penning Independence: The Declaration Takes Shape

 On June 12, 1776, the Continental Congress took a major step toward independence by forming a committee to draft a declaration that would announce the American colonies’ break from British rule. The committee included five members: Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston. Jefferson, known for his strong writing skills, was chosen to write the first draft. Over the next few weeks, the committee reviewed and revised the document, leading to the final version that was adopted on July 4, 1776. Fun fact: Although Jefferson did most of the writing, the ideas behind the Declaration were heavily influenced by discussions among all five members—and even Jefferson’s writing was edited by Congress before the final version was approved! Listen to Episode 15: Powerful Words

June 14, 1954 – ​​Words That United a Nation

On June 14, 1954, Congress officially added the words “under God” to the Pledge of Allegiance, a change meant to highlight the nation’s spiritual foundation during a time of Cold War uncertainty. With President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s support, the phrase was included to set the U.S. apart from atheistic communist countries and emphasize unity and shared values among Americans. Since then, the updated pledge has been recited by millions in schools and public gatherings. Fun fact: The phrase “under God” was inspired by a speech President Abraham Lincoln gave over 90 years earlier—the Gettysburg Address, where he referred to a nation “under God.” It was also during President Lincoln’s presidency that the words “One Nation Under God” were first minted on a coin – the 1864 two-cent piece. (I actually own one of these rare coins!) Listen to Episode 115: Abraham Lincoln, Leader Extraordinaire!

June 14, 1775 – Founding the Fight for Freedom

On June 14, 1775, the Continental Congress established the Continental Army, laying the foundation for what would become the United States Army. Created over a year before the Declaration of Independence, the Army was formed to unify colonial forces in the fight against British rule. General George Washington was appointed as its commander just days later, setting the stage for a long struggle for freedom. Fun fact: The original Continental Army was made up of about 27,000 soldiers—but they had to bring many of their own weapons, and some even had to learn how to fight after joining!