### Little-Known Events in US History with Modern Relevance

Explore lesser-known historical events in the US that continue to impact modern society and policy.

Key Points

• The Great Molasses Flood of 1919: A massive storage tank burst in Boston, releasing a wave of molasses that killed 21 people and injured 150. This disaster led to stricter building regulations and safety standards.
• The Bonus Army March of 1932: World War I veterans marched on Washington, D.C., demanding early payment of a promised bonus. The event highlighted the need for veterans' benefits and influenced future policies like the GI Bill.
• The Zoot Suit Riots of 1943: A series of violent clashes in Los Angeles between servicemen and Mexican American youths. These riots underscored racial tensions and contributed to the civil rights movement.
• The 1969 Cuyahoga River Fire: The heavily polluted river in Cleveland caught fire, drawing national attention to environmental issues and leading to the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• The Attica Prison Riot of 1971: A major prison uprising in New York that resulted in 43 deaths. It brought attention to prison conditions and sparked reforms in the criminal justice system.

Why it matters

Understanding these lesser-known events provides insight into how past incidents have shaped current policies and societal norms. They highlight the ongoing evolution of safety standards, veterans' rights, racial equality, environmental protection, and criminal justice reform. Recognizing these historical moments helps contextualize modern challenges and the continuous need for policy improvement.

Sources

• National Archives: The Great Molasses Flood
• Library of Congress: The Bonus Army
• National Park Service: Zoot Suit Riots
• Environmental Protection Agency: Cuyahoga River Fire
• New York State Archives: Attica Prison Riot