#46 November 9-15

November 9, 1906 — Teddy Roosevelt’s Big Trip

On November 9, 1906, President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt did something no other president had ever done before—he left the country while still in office! Teddy set out for Panama to see the progress on one of the biggest construction projects in history: the Panama Canal. When he arrived a few days later, he didn’t just watch from a distance. He walked right among the workers, asked questions, and even climbed up onto a giant steam shovel to see how it worked! Roosevelt wanted to show the men digging the canal that their hard work mattered.
Fun Fact: A famous photo shows Teddy at the controls of that huge steam shovel, wearing his trademark white suit and beaming with pride. Episode 64 is all about Theodore Roosevelt!

November 10, 1775 — America’s First Fighters: The Birth of the Marine Corps

On November 10, 1775, the Continental Congress created a brand-new fighting force called the Continental Marines—today known as the United States Marine Corps! These Marines were trained to fight both on land and at sea, protecting the young colonies wherever they were needed most. From the very beginning, the Marines earned a reputation for courage, discipline, and teamwork. Every year, Marines around the world celebrate this date as their birthday to honor their long and proud history.
Fun Fact: The Marines carry a special sword called the Mameluke sword. It’s one of the oldest military weapons still in use anywhere in the world!

November 11, 1918 — Heroes Among Us: The Story of Veterans Day

On November 11, 1918, the world finally breathed a sigh of relief—the fighting of World War I came to an end. An armistice, or peace agreement, was signed to stop the battles at exactly the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. After years of terrible war, the world rejoiced as peace began to take hold. In the years that followed, Americans honored that day as Armistice Day. Then, in 1954, it became known as Veterans Day—a special time to honor all men and women who have served in the United States military.
Fun Fact: Because the armistice took effect at “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month,” we still celebrate Veterans Day on November 11 every year! Listen to Episode 72: The War to End All Wars (WW 1), Listen to Episode 127: The Uncommon Courage of Sergeant Alvin York , Listen to Episode 139: The Adventures of Sergeant Stubby

November 11, 1926 — America Hits the Road: Route 66 Is Born

On November 11, 1926, America’s most famous highway came to life—U.S. Route 66! Stretching nearly 2,500 miles from Chicago, Illinois, all the way to Santa Monica, California, Route 66 connected small towns, big cities, and open countryside. It quickly became known as “The Main Street of America” and later as “The Mother Road.” For countless families, Route 66 meant adventure, opportunity, and the excitement of discovering new places.
Fun Fact: Route 66 inspired the hit song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66,” and travelers can still drive many parts of the original road today.

November 15, 1777 — The Birth of American Unity: The Articles of Confederation

On November 15, 1777, the Continental Congress adopted the Articles of Confederation—the first written plan for the United States government. This important document helped the thirteen colonies work together during the final years of the Revolutionary War. Even though it gave most of the power to the individual states, it was a crucial first step toward building a unified nation. Later, the Articles would be replaced by the U.S. Constitution, which created a stronger central government, but the spirit of cooperation that began with the Articles paved the way for the country we know today.
Fun Fact: It took more than three years for all thirteen states to agree on the Articles. Maryland was the last to sign in 1781!