Today in US history on February 20: From groundbreaking space flights and legal milestones to family tragedy and Olympic glory

February 20 has witnessed a series of historic milestones in US history, spanning groundbreaking achievements in space and sports, pivotal legal decisions, personal tragedies in the White House, and advancements in science and public service.

From orbiting the Earth to making history on the ice, events on this day reflect the diverse ways Americans have shaped and been shaped by their times.

1962 - John Glenn becomes the first American to orbit Earth


On February 20, 1962, John Glenn made history as the first American to orbit the Earth. Aboard Project Mercury’s Friendship 7, he completed three full orbits over nearly five hours, splashing down in the Atlantic Ocean about 260 miles northwest of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

1792- George Washington establishes the US Post Office Department

In 1792, President George Washington established the United States Post Office Department, the forerunner of today’s US Postal Service, by signing a landmark act.

1862 - Abraham Lincoln’s 11-year-old son dies at White House

In 1862, tragedy struck the Lincoln family when their 11-year-old son, William Wallace Lincoln, succumbed to what was believed to be typhoid fever while at the White House.

1905 - Supreme Court backs mandatory vaccines

In 1905, the US Supreme Court upheld compulsory vaccination laws in a 7-2 decision in Jacobson v. Massachusetts, affirming the government’s authority to enforce public health measures.

1965 - Ranger 8 crashes into the Moon after sending thousands of photos

In 1965, Ranger 8 concluded its mission by intentionally crashing into the Moon, having captured and transmitted thousands of detailed images of the lunar surface that would aid future space exploration.

1998 - Tara Lipinski wins Olympic figure skating gold

In 1998, Tara Lipinski of the United States made history as the youngest Olympic gold medalist in figure skating, claiming the women’s title at the Nagano Winter Games, with fellow American Michelle Kwan earning the silver medal.