Today In History

In 1789: The Constitution of the United States went into effect as the first Federal Congress met in New York City. Lawmakers then adjourned for the lack of a quorum.

In 1917: Republican Jeanette Rankin of Montana took her seat as the first woman elected to the House of Representatives.

In 1933: The start of President Roosevelt’s first administration brought with it the first woman to serve in the Cabinet: Labor Secretary Frances Perkins.

In 1987: President Reagan addressed the nation on the Iran-Contra affair, acknowledging his overtures to Iran had “deteriorated” into an arms-for-hostages deal.