January 26, 1784 - Benjamin Franklin writes his famous assertion that the bald eagle should be replaced by the turkey as the national symbol of our country in a letter to his daughter.

January 26, 1838 - Tennessee passes the first Prohibition laws in the United States, making it a misdemeanor to sell alcohol in taverns and stores.

January 26, 1875 - In an attempt to kill the outlaws Frank and Jesse James, detectives from the Pinkerton firm shoot up the family home. Although the brothers are not home, their mother is injured and their nine year old half brother is killed.

January 26, 1875 - George Green receives a patent for the electric-powered dental drill.

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January 26, 1911 - Known as the father of naval aviation, Glenn Curtiss makes the first successful take-off from water.

January 26, 1920 - The Lincoln Motor Car Company is established. In just two years, it would be purchased by the Ford Motor Company.

January 26, 1925 - Paul Newman, actor, is born.

January 26, 1934 - The Apollo Theater, known for the showcasing of African-American musical talent, opens in Harlem.

 

"Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for lunch. Liberty is a well-armed lamb contesting the vote!" - Benjamin Franklin