June 22

Events - Society & Lifestyle

1839day.year

Cherokee leaders Major Ridge, John Ridge, and Elias Boudinot are assassinated for signing the Treaty of New Echota, which had resulted in the Trail of Tears.

Key Cherokee leaders were assassinated in retaliation for signing the Treaty of New Echota, a precursor to the Trail of Tears.
On June 22, 1839, prominent Cherokee figures Major Ridge, John Ridge, and Elias Boudinot were murdered by fellow tribal members opposed to the Treaty of New Echota. The agreement, signed in 1835, ceded Cherokee lands east of the Mississippi and inaugurated the forced relocation known as the Trail of Tears. Many Cherokees viewed the treaty signers as traitors for accepting removal in exchange for compensation. The assassinations deepened internal divisions and underscored the community's anguish and resistance to displacement. This violent episode remains a poignant reminder of the human cost of federal Indian policies in the 19th century.
1839 Cherokee Major Ridge John Ridge Elias Boudinot Treaty of New Echota Trail of Tears
1942day.year

The Pledge of Allegiance is formally adopted by U.S. Congress.

The U.S. Congress formally adopted the Pledge of Allegiance, establishing it as a symbol of national unity and patriotism.
On 22 June 1942, the United States Congress officially adopted the Pledge of Allegiance, standardizing its wording and promoting its recitation nationwide. Originally written by Francis Bellamy in 1892, the pledge had been popular in schools and civic gatherings for decades. The formal adoption during World War II underscored its role as a symbol of unity and national solidarity. The pledge's declaration of 'one nation, indivisible' resonated deeply as Americans faced global conflict. Over time, debates over religious language and compulsory recitation would spark important discussions about individual rights and freedom of expression.
Pledge of Allegiance
1948day.year

The ship HMT Empire Windrush brought the first group of 802 West Indian immigrants to Tilbury, marking the start of modern immigration to the United Kingdom.

The HMT Empire Windrush arrived at Tilbury carrying the first large group of West Indian migrants, marking the beginning of modern postwar immigration to the UK.
In June 1948 the troopship Empire Windrush docked at Tilbury, Essex, carrying 802 passengers from the Caribbean invited to help rebuild postwar Britain. These first migrants of the Windrush generation faced housing shortages, discrimination, and cultural adjustment challenges. Despite hardships, they contributed to Britain’s booming industries and enriched its cultural landscape. Their arrival sparked debates over immigration policy and race relations that continue to this day. The term 'Windrush generation' honors their pioneering role in shaping modern British society.
1948 HMT Empire Windrush West Indian Tilbury modern immigration to the United Kingdom