TODAY IN HISTORY

TODAY’S HIGHLIGHT Dec. 18, 1865

The 13th Amendment to the Constitution, abolishing slavery, was declared in effect by Secretary of State William H. Seward.

ON THIS DATE 1917

Congress passed the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibiting “the manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors” and sent it to the states for ratification.

1998

The House debated articles of impeachment against President Bill Clinton. South Carolina carried out the nation’s 500th execution since capital punishment resumed in 1977.