August 10

On August 10, 1755, Governor Charles Lawrence ordered the rounding up of French-speaking Acadian settlers in Nova Scotia. Accused of disloyalty during the escalating Seven Years' War, thousands were loaded onto ships bound for the American colonies and Europe. Homes and farms were seized, and families were separated in a campaign known as the Great Expulsion (Le Grand Dérangement). Many deportees suffered from disease, starvation, and violence during their journeys. This forced migration dramatically altered Acadian society and left a lasting legacy in North American history.

On August 10, 1835, Phineas Taylor Barnum showcased Joice Heth in New York City, advertising her as the 161-year-old former nursemaid of President George Washington. Thousands flocked to see the octogenarian performer, captivated by Barnum's sensational marketing. Though Heth’s age claims were later debunked, the exhibition established Barnum's reputation for sensationalism. This event marked the beginning of Barnum's career as a leading figure in American entertainment and circus culture. It also set precedents for publicity-driven spectacles that would define his later successes.

On August 10, 1901, the Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers launched a recognition strike targeting the newly formed U.S. Steel Corporation, the world's largest steel producer. The union sought official acknowledgment and collective bargaining rights after company leadership refused to recognize organized labor in its massive steel plants. Thousands of workers across Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana walked off the job, halting steel production in a bid to pressure industrial leaders. Despite initial solidarity, U.S. Steel hired strikebreakers and called on federal authorities, weakening the union's position. The strike ended in 1902 with limited gains but highlighted the growing tensions in America's steel industry during the Gilded Age.

The Candid Camera debuted on television on August 10, 1948, bringing hidden-camera pranks to a nationwide audience. Created by Allen Funt, it built on his earlier radio show, The Candid Microphone. The series captured unsuspecting individuals in humorous and surprising situations, pioneering the candid camera format. Its blend of lighthearted mischief and genuine reactions resonated with viewers. Over its long run on various networks, Candid Camera influenced reality television and prank-based programming. The show remains iconic for its playful exploration of human behavior.

On August 10, 1981, the severed head of six-year-old Adam Walsh was tragically discovered in a Florida canal. His disappearance and murder devastated his family and captured national attention. Father John Walsh channeled his grief into advocacy for child safety and missing children awareness. His work led to the creation of the television series America's Most Wanted, which brought criminals to justice and raised public vigilance. The tragedy also inspired the founding of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children to coordinate search efforts. The case prompted changes in law enforcement procedures and missing persons investigations. Adam's legacy endures in modern child protection policies and public service campaigns.

Shortly after midnight on August 10, 1999, a gunman opened fire at the Jewish Community Center in Granada Hills, Los Angeles. Although no injuries were reported, the attack shattered the sense of safety within the local Jewish community. Law enforcement launched a manhunt and later arrested a suspect believed to have acted from hate-fueled motives. Community leaders rallied to condemn the violence and called for solidarity and vigilance. The incident led to strengthened security protocols at religious and cultural centers nationwide. Dialogue on tolerance and interfaith understanding intensified in response to the shooting. The center reopened with enhanced protective measures and support services for members. The event remains a reminder of the importance of security and community resilience in the face of hate crimes.