Great Boston Fire of 1872 begins on Summer Street in downtown Boston. The fire would go on to burn over 63 acres and 776 buildings, leading to improved regulations and fire fighting in American cities.
Fall of the Berlin Wall
East German authorities allow Germans to pass into West Berlin and West Germany, ending the 28-year separation of Berlin. Thousands of German citizens would begin tearing down the wall the following day.
President Theodore Roosevelt takes the first presidential trip outside the United States. Aboard the USS Louisiana, Roosevelt sails for Panama to oversee construction of the Panama Canal.
Enjoy our work? Help us keep going.
Now in its 75th year, American Heritage relies 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.
