History of Tennessee, USA

1768 - Iroquois Indians ceded Tennessee land claims to English

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1779 - Jonesboro became first chartered town, oldest permanent settlement in state
In 1779, Jonesborough, Tennessee, marked a significant moment in the state's history by becoming the first chartered town and the oldest permanent settlement within Tennessee. Founded just a few years earlier, Jonesborough quickly grew into a vital center for trade and governance in the region. Its strategic location in the Appalachian Mountains made it a key hub for pioneers and settlers moving westward during America's early expansion.
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1784 - "State of Franklin" proclaimed in Tennessee
In 1784, the "State of Franklin" emerged as a short-lived, autonomous region in what is now eastern Tennessee. Named after Benjamin Franklin, the area had been part of North Carolina but felt neglected by the distant state government. Seeking greater local control and spurred by economic and political grievances, leaders such as John Sevier declared independence from North Carolina and attempted to establish a new state. The region's aspirations were fueled by its strategic location and the desire for self-governance amidst frontier challenges.

The State of Franklin faced significant obstacles from the outset, including opposition from both North Carolina and the federal government, which refused to recognize its sovereignty. Despite efforts to establish institutions of governance and maintain autonomy, internal divisions and external pressures ultimately led to its collapse by 1788. The territory eventually reverted to North Carolina before Tennessee achieved statehood in... Read MORE...

1796 - Tennesse became 16th U.S. state
In 1796, Tennessee achieved a significant milestone by becoming the 16th state to join the United States. Situated in the southeastern region of the country, Tennessee's admission marked a pivotal moment in the nation's expansion and political landscape during the early years of its formation. The state's journey to statehood began with settlers moving into the region, primarily from Virginia and North Carolina, attracted by fertile land and economic opportunities.

The path to statehood was not without challenges. Tennessee had initially been part of North Carolina, but it became a territory known as the Southwest Territory in 1790. Under the leadership of figures like John Sevier and William Blount, Tennessee's residents organized a government and petitioned for statehood, overcoming political and logistical hurdles along the way. On June 1, 1796, Tennessee was admitted to the Union, solidifying its place in the growing nation and contributing to the expansion of democratic... Read MORE...

1812 - Eathquake occurred; tidal waves created on Mississippi River, river flowed backward, formed Reelfort Lake area

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1838 - Army evicted Cherokee, sent them to Indian territory on "Trail of Tears" - Tennessee first state to pass temperance law
In 1838, one of the darkest chapters in American history unfolded as the United States government forcibly evicted thousands of Cherokee Native Americans from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States. This event, known as the Trail of Tears, was part of a broader policy of Indian Removal initiated by President Andrew Jackson. The Cherokee, who had established settled agricultural communities in Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Alabama, were ordered to abandon their homes and march westward to Indian Territory (now Oklahoma). The journey, fraught with harsh conditions and lacking adequate provisions, resulted in the deaths of thousands due to disease, starvation, and exposure.

Meanwhile, in the same year, Tennessee became the first state to enact a temperance law, marking a significant moment in the growing movement to restrict or ban the consumption of alcohol. The temperance movement, which gained momentum throughout the 19th century, was fueled by concerns... Read MORE...

1861 - Tennessee secedes from Union (May 7); Civil War began
In 1861, the secession of Tennessee from the Union marked a pivotal moment in American history, contributing significantly to the outbreak of the Civil War. On May 7th of that year, Tennessee officially declared its secession from the United States, aligning itself with the Confederate States of America. This decision was driven by complex political and economic factors, including disagreements over states' rights versus federal authority, as well as the institution of slavery, which was deeply ingrained in the Southern economy and society.

Tennessee's secession intensified the already escalating tensions between North and South, setting the stage for open conflict. The Civil War, which began shortly thereafter in April 1861 with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, South Carolina, would ultimately engulf the nation in a brutal and protracted struggle. Tennessee's strategic location and its divided loyalties—despite secession, significant pockets of Union support existed within... Read MORE...

1866 - Tennessee first state readmitted to Union; third state to ratify Fourteenth Amendment to constitution
In 1866, Tennessee achieved a significant milestone in American history by becoming the first state to be readmitted to the Union following the Civil War. This event marked a crucial step in the Reconstruction era, which aimed to reintegrate Southern states back into the United States and address the aftermath of slavery. Tennessee's readmission signaled a symbolic reconciliation between the North and South, as well as a commitment to rebuilding the nation's unity.

Moreover, Tennessee played another pivotal role during this period by becoming the third state to ratify the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. This amendment, adopted in 1868, granted citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States, including former slaves, and guaranteed them equal protection under the law. Tennessee's ratification of this amendment underscored its willingness to embrace civil rights reforms and its determination to align with the federal government's efforts to ... Read MORE...

1888 - A Cincinnati Southern train was wrecked on the 31st ult. in the Tennessee mountains and three persons were killed.

St Joseph Herald
Saint Joseph, Michigan
November 3, 1888

1895 - Tennessee
Ten'nessee', a S.E. central state of the American Union, bounded N. by Kentucky and Virginia, E. by North Carolina, S. by Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi, W. by Arkansas and Missouri. Its W. limit is the Mississippi River; and from North Carolina it is separated by the Iron, Unaka, Bald, Stone, or Great Smoky ridge of the Appalachian Mountains, whose general altitude is 5000 feet and whose broad top is generally treeless. The state has a rhomboidal outline, and an area of 42,050 square miles...

The Population in 1790 was 35,691; in 1800, 105,602; in 1810, 261,727; in 1820, 422,771; in 1830,681,904; in 1840, 829,210; in 1850, 1,002,717; in 1860, 1,109,801; in 1870, 1,258,520; in 1880, 1,542,359; in 1890, 1,767,518.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1897 - Tennessee Centennial Exposition held in Nashville to celebrate state's 100th birthday
The Tennessee Centennial Exposition of 1897, held in Nashville, marked a significant milestone in the state's history as it celebrated Tennessee's 100th anniversary of statehood. The exposition was a grand showcase of Tennessee's cultural, industrial, and technological achievements, drawing visitors from across the nation to witness its festivities.

Central to the exposition was Centennial Park, which housed many of the event's main attractions, including replicas of significant historical landmarks and pavilions representing various industries. The Parthenon replica, now a Nashville landmark, was originally constructed for the exposition as part of its dedication to arts and culture. The event also featured exhibits highlighting Tennessee's role in the Civil War and its contributions to agriculture, showcasing advancements in farming technology and techniques.
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1900 - Locomotive engineer, Casey Jones, died in train crash
On April 30, 1900, the tragic train crash involving locomotive engineer Casey Jones became a poignant moment in American railroad history. Casey Jones, renowned for his exceptional skills and dedication to the job, was operating the Illinois Central Railroad's Cannonball Express when disaster struck near Vaughan, Mississippi. The train, known for its speed and efficiency, collided with a stalled freight train on the tracks ahead due to a miscommunication in signaling.

Despite his efforts to slow down and avert disaster, Casey Jones was unable to prevent the collision. His bravery and selflessness became legendary as he stayed aboard the train to warn and protect his passengers. While Jones managed to slow the train considerably before impact, he tragically lost his life in the crash. His actions, immortalized in song and folklore, symbolize the courage and commitment of railroad workers during the heyday of steam locomotion in the United States.
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1919 - First Women’s Bank of Tennessee (Clarksville) opens to cater to women customers only.
While the bank employees and directors were women, its shareholders were male.
https://www.theguardian.com/money/us-money-blog/2014/aug/11/women-rights-money-timeline-history

1925 - May 5 - Scopes Trial: Dayton, Tennessee, biology teacher John Scopes is arrested for teaching Charles Darwin's Theory of Evolution.

May 5, 1925

1925 - July 21 – Scopes Trial: In Dayton, Tennessee, high school biology teacher John T. Scopes is found guilty of teaching evolution in class and fined $100.
In 1925, the Scopes Trial, also known as the "Monkey Trial," captured national attention in Dayton, Tennessee. The trial centered around John T. Scopes, a high school biology teacher, who faced charges for violating Tennessee's Butler Act, which prohibited the teaching of any theory denying the biblical account of divine creation. The prosecution was led by William Jennings Bryan, a prominent politician and fundamentalist Christian, who sought to uphold traditional religious teachings in schools. Defending Scopes was Clarence Darrow, a renowned defense attorney and agnostic, supported by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

The trial became a pivotal moment in American history, symbolizing the clash between modern scientific thought and religious fundamentalism. It drew intense media coverage and sparked nationwide debate over academic freedom, the separation of church and state, and the validity of teaching evolution in public schools. Though Scopes was convicted and fined,... Read MORE...

1939 - "Grand Ole Opry" began radio broadcasts
In 1939, the "Grand Ole Opry" initiated its radio broadcasts, marking a significant moment in American music history. Originating as a live stage concert in Nashville, Tennessee, the "Grand Ole Opry" quickly became synonymous with country music and southern culture. Its radio debut expanded its reach beyond the local audience, broadcasting traditional and contemporary country music performances to listeners across the nation. This milestone not only propelled the careers of numerous country music artists but also solidified Nashville's reputation as the capital of country music.
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1940 - Great Smoky Mountain National Park dedicated by President Franklin Roosevelt
On September 2, 1940, President Franklin D. Roosevelt stood amidst the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains to dedicate the newly established Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This event marked a significant moment in American conservation history, as it celebrated the culmination of efforts to preserve one of the country's most stunning natural landscapes. The park, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, encompassed over half a million acres of pristine forests, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife.

Read more about Franklin Delano ROOSEVELT

February 1, 1951 - The greatest ice storm of record in the U.S.
produced glaze up to four inches thick from Texas to Pennsylvania causing twenty-five deaths, 500 serious injuries, and 100 million dollars damage. Tennessee was hardest hit by the storm. Communications and utilities were interrupted for a week to ten days.
WeatherForYou.com
February 1, 1951

1952 - March 21 - Severe thunderstorms spawned thirty-one tornadoes across Arkansas, Tennessee, Missouri, Mississippi, Alabama and Kentucky.
The tornadoes killed 343 persons and caused 15 million dollars damage. Arkansas and Tennessee each reported thirteen tornadoes. The towns of Judsonia AR and Henderson TN were nearly wiped off the map in what proved to be the worst tornado outbreak of record for Arkansas. A tornado, one and a half miles wide at times, left a church the only undamaged building at Judsonia.
WeatherForYou.com
March 21, 1952

2023 - There's something for everyone to enjoy in the Volunteer State. Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Tennessee:
1. Graceland Memphis:
Visit the former home of the King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley. Explore the mansion, Elvis' car collection, and his final resting place.

2. Beale Street Memphis:
Dive into the heart of the blues on Beale Street. Enjoy live music, delicious barbecue, and vibrant nightlife.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
Hike, camp, or simply drive through America's most-visited national park. Don't miss Clingmans Dome, the highest point in Tennessee.

4. Dollywood Pigeon Forge:
Experience a mix of thrilling rides, live entertainment, and Appalachian culture at this popular theme park owned by Dolly Parton.

5. Nashville's Music Scene:
Explore the birthplace of country music. Visit the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

6. Jack Daniel's Distillery Lynchburg:
Take a tour of the iconic Jack Daniel's Distillery to learn about whiskey-making and sample some of Tennessee's finest.

7. Sun Studio Memphis:
Discover the... Read MORE...