Julius and Ethel Rosenberg are executed by electrocution at Sing Sing Correctional Facility in New York. The Rosenbergs, tried and convicted for espionage, became the first United States civilians to be executed for espionage in American history.
For over 75 years, American Heritage has relied on contributions from readers like you to survive. You can support this magazine of trusted historical writing and the volunteers that sustain it by donating today.