HowStuffWorks - June: This Month in History

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HowStuffWorks Presents: This Month In History

June: First Recorded Lunar Eclipse in North America

A lunar eclipse occurs when a full moon passes through the Earth's shadow. Lunar eclipses, visible to the naked eye, gave astronomers information about the solar system long before telescopes existed. Aristotle even used a lunar eclipse to determine that the Earth is round. The first astronomical event recorded in North America was a lunar eclipse on June 25, 1638.

Related Stuff:
How Telescopes Work
What if we lived on the moon?

Featured Content

P.T. Barnum: Begins Career as a Showman

Most of us know P.T. Barnum because of the circus, but he was actually an incredibly important figure in American history. Barnum had unbelievable perseverance and a keen understanding of how to excite people's interest. But perhaps his greatest talent was his ability to package and promote entertainment. Learn how P.T. Barnum went from small-time entrepreneur to master showman and founder of the "Greatest Show on Earth." Read More

June 1, 1980: CNN Debuts
When CNN first launched, many people couldn't imagine how a 24-hour news network could work. Find out how CNN became a respected news organization. Read More

June 6: National Yo-Yo Day
On June 6, yo-yo fans everywhere commemorate the birthday of Donald Duncan, credited with making yo-yos popular in the United States. Read More

June 17, 1928: Amelia Earhart's Transatlantic Flight
After Amelia Earhart became the first woman to make a transatlantic flight, she became a national celebrity. Learn about Earhart's accomplishments. Read More

June 19, 1978: "Garfield" Comic Strip Debuts
The feline answer to Marmaduke and Snoopy, Garfield debuted in June 1978 and quickly drew a serious fan base. Learn about the history of Garfield. Read More

June 17, 1972: Watergate Break-in
On this day, five men were arrested at an office suite in the Watergate facility. Learn how the Watergate break-in eventually led to the resignation of President Nixon. Read More

Video: This Month In History

Featured Video: CNN's First Broadcast
See Ted Turner launch CNN, the first 24-hour-news broadcast network and watch the first story ever aired on CNN.

June is National Rivers Month

Given the important role that rivers have played in American history, it's no surprise that we have an entire month dedicated to them. Learn about everything that your local rivers have to offer, then get out and enjoy these amazing natural resources.