UPDATE: Today, November 15, 2025, marks the **256th anniversary** of a monumental protest against the Vietnam War, where **250,000** demonstrators gathered peacefully in **Washington, D.C.** to voice their opposition to the conflict. This historic event, which took place on November 15, 1969, remains a pivotal moment in U.S. history, symbolizing the growing anti-war sentiment during a time of national turmoil.
As we reflect on this day, we look back not only at the Vietnam protests but also at other significant historical events that occurred on this date.
In 1777, the **Second Continental Congress** approved the **Articles of Confederation**, laying the groundwork for the United States’ first constitution. This foundational moment underscores the importance of governance and unity in shaping the nation.
On this day in **1806**, explorer **Zebulon Pike** sighted the mountain now known as **Pikes Peak** in present-day Colorado, marking a significant achievement in American exploration.
Fast forward to the **U.S. Civil War** in **1864**, Union forces under Maj. Gen. **William Tecumseh Sherman** began their infamous “March to the Sea” from Atlanta, ultimately leading to the capture of Savannah, Georgia, on December 21 of that year. This campaign was crucial in turning the tide of the Civil War.
In **1939**, President **Franklin D. Roosevelt** laid the cornerstone of the **Jefferson Memorial** in Washington, D.C., reinforcing the nation’s commitment to honor its founding principles.
Tragedy struck on November 15, 1959, when four members of the **Clutter family** in Holcomb, Kansas, were found murdered in their home. This case later became notorious due to Truman Capote’s book, “In Cold Blood,” highlighting the dark side of American life.
The space race reached a milestone on this day in **1966** when the Gemini 12 mission concluded successfully, with astronauts **James A. Lovell** and **Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin Jr.** splashing down safely in the Atlantic after four days in orbit.
In more recent history, on November 15, **2012**, the **Justice Department** announced that **BP** had agreed to plead guilty to multiple charges related to the 2010 **Deepwater Horizon** oil spill, agreeing to pay a staggering **$4.5 billion** in fines—marking one of the largest settlements in U.S. history.
The political landscape also saw significant developments on this date in **2019** when **Roger Stone**, a close ally of then-President **Donald Trump**, was convicted on seven counts, including lying to Congress. This conviction underscored the ongoing investigations into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 election.
Lastly, in **2022**, the world population reached **8 billion**, a landmark moment noted by the **United Nations**, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable development and resource management as global challenges grow.
As we commemorate this day, we also recognize the birthdays of notable figures including **Petula Clark** (93), **Sam Waterston** (85), and **ABBA’s Frida Lyngstad** (80), reminding us of the diverse legacies that continue to shape our world.
Today’s events prompt us to reflect on our history and the impact of collective action. Stay tuned for more updates as we honor these significant moments and their ongoing relevance in today’s society.
