Today in US history on March 28: Three Mile Island accident, First American killed in WWI, Elvis Presley’s Burning Love and more

History often reflects turning points that influence policy, culture, and society in lasting ways. March 28 stands out in US history for events ranging from a nuclear accident that reshaped energy debates to political milestones, wartime tragedy, and cultural developments. Here is a look at key moments that occurred on this day.

1979 Three Mile Island nuclear accident begins

One of the worst incidents in US nuclear power history started when a pressure valve failed at the Three Mile Island Nuclear Generating Station. Cooling water contaminated with radiation leaked, causing the reactor core to overheat. Located near Harrisburg, the accident raised nationwide concerns about nuclear safety and regulation.

1899 Birth of August Anheuser Busch Jr.

Born in St. Louis, Busch later became chairman of Anheuser-Busch from 1946 to 1975. During his leadership, the company founded by his grandfather grew into the largest brewery in the world.

1834 Andrew Jackson censured by Congress

Congress formally censured President Jackson for refusing to turn over documents, marking the first time a sitting U.S. president received such an official reprimand.

1915 First American killed in World War I

Leon Thrasher drowned when a German submarine torpedoed the ship Falaba off the coast of England. Of the 242 passengers and crew, 104 died, making him the first American casualty of the conflict.

1804 Ohio restricts movement of Black residents

The state of Ohio passed legislation limiting the movement and rights of Black individuals, reflecting early racial restrictions in U.S. law.

1881 “Greatest Show on Earth” formed

P. T. Barnum and James Anthony Bailey joined forces to create the traveling circus later known as the “Greatest Show on Earth.”

1946 Acheson Lilienthal Report released

The U.S. State Department issued the Acheson-Lilienthal Report outlining a plan for international control of nuclear power in the early atomic age.

1972 Elvis Presley records Burning Love

Presley recorded his final Top Ten hit, written by Dennis Linde and first recorded by Arthur Alexander.