Three Cheers for March 1!

A Saturday Short collection of memorable moments in history.

Despite the events of yesterday recalling the time England’s prime minister Neville Chamberlain gave much of Czechoslovakia to Hitler, we have made it to Saturday, March 1, a date that offers much to lift our spirits. Meteorologically speaking, it’s the first day of spring. It is also National Pig Day, Share a Smile Day, and National Dance Teacher Appreciation Day. Read on to discover more noteworthy historical reasons to celebrate today….

In 1781, Congress finally agreed on the first Articles of Confederation which gave all power to Congress and the states to run the country. The president played a somewhat ceremonial role and was limited to one year appointments. By 1787, the Constitutional Convention began working on a plan that is enshrined in the Constitution. The executive branch was granted more power. At the same time it gave Congress and the Judiciary the power to check abuses. This is why we haven’t had some egomaniac claiming to be our king.

President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps on this day in 1961. The Corps sent young volunteers to developing countries around the world to work alongside humanitarian organizations to help them improve such basic needs as health care, education and houses. Elon Musk wouldn’t have approved of the Corp one bit.

This is currently my favorite March 1 anniversary: On this day in 1974, Richard Nixon’s Attorney General, Chief of Staff, and domestic affairs officer were indicted along with four other defendents in the Watergate break-in. The Associated Press compiled a list of other March 1 fun birthday facts.

Finally but far from the least…..Happy Ramadan everyone! The start of the holiday depends on the rising of a crescent moon. Here in America, the moon was seen yesterday, February 28. But in other parts of the world, the moon will appear tonight. Observers fast each day until sundown and then share an envious feast with family and friends. Sounds like a pretty wonderful way to begin the month of March.