February 25 in History: Muhammad Ali’s Ascent and National Milestones
February 25th marks several pivotal moments in American and global history. This date witnessed a legendary boxing triumph. It also saw major political and financial developments in the United States. From sporting glory to constitutional changes, this day holds lasting significance.
Muhammad Ali Claims Heavyweight Title (1964)
On February 25, 1964, a young Cassius Clay shocked the boxing world. He defeated Sonny Liston in Miami Beach, Florida. Clay was then 22 years old. He won the world heavyweight title. Liston was the reigning champion. He was heavily favored to win. However, Clay’s speed and agility proved too much. Liston retired on his stool before the seventh round. This victory launched Clay into superstardom. Soon after, he announced his conversion to Islam. He changed his name to Muhammad Ali. This moment cemented his place as a sports icon. His career became one of the most celebrated in boxing history.
President Andrew Johnson Impeached (1868)
Almost a century earlier, February 25, 1868, marked a dark day in American politics. The U.S. House of Representatives voted to impeach President Andrew Johnson. This action made him the first U.S. president to face impeachment. The House accused Johnson of high crimes and misdemeanors. These charges mainly stemmed from his attempts to remove Secretary of War Edwin Stanton. Johnson’s impeachment battle captivated the nation. It highlighted deep divisions after the Civil War. While impeached by the House, the Senate later acquitted him. He remained in office.
Federal Income Tax Established (1913)
Another landmark event occurred on February 25, 1913. On this day, the 16th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was officially ratified. This amendment granted Congress the power to levy an income tax. It allowed the federal government to collect taxes on incomes. This was a significant shift in national finance. It provided a stable and direct source of revenue. The federal income tax remains a cornerstone of the U.S. economic system today.
SEC Created to Oversee Markets (1934)
The Great Depression led to many reforms. One such reform came on February 25, 1934. President Franklin D. Roosevelt established the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC was created to regulate the stock market. Its mission was to protect investors. It also aimed to maintain fair and orderly markets. The SEC plays a vital role in ensuring transparency. It helps prevent fraud in the financial industry. This agency continues to safeguard American investors.
Other Notable Events on February 25
Beyond these major U.S. events, February 25th saw other key moments. In 1836, Alamo defenders made a plea for aid. They faced overwhelming Mexican forces. In 1933, the USS Ranger was launched. This ship became the first U.S. Navy vessel designed as an aircraft carrier. Later, in 1990, Violeta Chamorro was elected president of Nicaragua. Her victory marked a peaceful transfer of power. Meanwhile, in 1991, an Iraqi Scud missile struck a U.S. barracks in Saudi Arabia. This tragic event resulted in numerous casualties during the Gulf War. In 2009, a Turkish Airlines plane crashed near Amsterdam. This accident killed nine people. These events, spanning centuries, underscore the diverse history packed into a single date.
