National Bill of Rights Day is observed every year on December 15th to commemorate the ratification of the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantees certain civil rights and liberties to all Americans. The First Congress of the United States first proposed twelve amendments to the Constitution in a joint resolution on September 25, 1789. Ten of the proposed amendments were approved by three-fourths of the state legislatures and the Bill of Rights was ratified on December 15, 1791.
Read moreThanksgiving: A Brief History
We’re all familiar with the traditions and trappings of Thanksgiving Day in the United States and the popular narrative behind the reason for its celebration. 2021 marks the 400th anniversary of the harvest feast shared by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1621, the event many Americans consider to be the “first” Thanksgiving. However, the history of Thanksgiving as a national holiday on the fourth Thursday of November has historical significance for many reasons. Here is a brief history of the establishment of a national holiday of Thanksgiving in the United States.
Read moreIf You Preserve It, They Will Come: Exploring “The Portal to Texas History”
Launched in 2004, “The Portal to Texas History is a gateway to rare, historical, and primary source materials from or about Texas.” This blog post explores the website’s contents and special programs related to The Portal, including the Texas Digital Newspaper Program, the Rescuing Texas History Program, and Resources4Educators.
Read moreA Sign of Our History - Honoring the Legacy of Robert W. Hainsworth
Beginning this week, visitors to the Law Library will pass beneath a reminder of Harris County’s civil rights history and a leader who pressed for equal access to the law for all.
Read moreJuneteenth National Independence Day: A Legal Public Holiday
Yesterday, President Biden signed into law an act declaring June 19 a legal public holiday designated as “Juneteenth National Independence Day.” Learn more about this holiday and ways to celebrate in this blog post.
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