History is made up of moments that have an impact.

What was the most popular posts (according to Google traffic) on this blog in 2024? My article looking at what happened during the 24th years of each century, going back to 1624. As a blogger who wants to deliver content you want to read and Googlers are searching, I'm doing it again! As we kick off 2025, let's do a fun little peek back into the year 25s of United States history!

Like last time, some events are so big you may already know about them and some may not seem to be. Truth be told, I've created the mission of this blog based on my belief that all of it has an impact someway and somehow.

RELATED: Read the 24s post by clicking here and open up the list of most popular posts in 2024 here.

Necessary disclaimer: As a blogger, I use affiliate links sometimes! I may receive commission from purchases I share; it does not change your price but sometimes you might get a discount.

Culver Hotel lobby, a bit of old Hollywood glam

1625

• King James I dies and is succeeded by his son, Charles I. James' leadership (best word?) in colonizing North America is now in the hands of a new king. Read about his efforts here.
• Changes in Holland as well: Stadtholder Maurice of Nassau of the Dutch Republic dies, and is succeeded by his younger brother, Frederick Henry. The Dutch held New Amsterdam (later the colony of New York) at this point.
• The Cadiz expedition takes place. English forces set out from Plymouth to attack the Spanish- and lost. The voyage and history were recorded by John Glanville, secretary to an Admiral and later member of Parliament. Check out his words by clicking here.

ACTION ITEM: Bring Plymouth to life for the kids in your world by clicking here. Get a taste of Glanville's experience there!

1725

• George Mason was born. His impact on the United States we know today was vital. He was George Washington's neighbor and colleague in Fairfax County (they wrote the Fairfax Resolves together). He was also the author of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, Bill of Rights, and Constitution (which he famously refused to sign without a Bill of Rights). All pre-cursors to the national documents we live by. Click here to go to the National Archives website and view a transcript of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, a copy of which we have in our home.
• Also born in 1725: Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau. Likewise, vital to United States history as he was the French military leader during the Revolutionary War. Sent by France to support the patriots' cause, he should be remembered!
• Benjamin Franklin travels to London and his dissertation on liberty is printed. Foreshadowing as he gives his thoughts "of the general State of Things in the Universe?" Maybe. Click here to read it in full, with notes and citations.

ACTION ITEM: Another item from History Unboxed- this one focused on the events leading up to and including the American Revolution (which was more than a war). Click here.

Randolph house where Rochambeau stayed, Williamsburg, Virginia.

1825

• New York's Governor Dewitt Clinton led the opening ceremony of the Erie Canal. Two things here: check out my place names post to learn more about him and click here to dive into a detailed history of the Erie Canal, as it was pivotal in the future of commerce in the United States.
• In February, the House of Representatives chooses John Quincy Adams as President. Andrew Jackson received the most electoral votes, just not enough to win the role. Corrupt deal? Fair decision? Check out the details here.
• At the invitation of President James Monroe, the Marquis de Lafayette arrived on our shores in 1824 for a "farewell tour." His departure in 1825 marked the end of an era in a way as he was the last living Major General of the American Revolutionary War. Click here for background from our National Battlefields Trust and here to learn more about the 200th anniversary!

CW historian & interpreter Mark Schneider performing as Lafayette.

1925

• Adolph Hitler's Mein Kampf is published. The impact of this man's words and actions on my family tree, and millions of others', will be felt forever. After the Great War, was the idea of active American involvement in another world war common dinner discussion? Was there fear? Between 1925 and 1945, over 12 million copies of Hitler's book were sold. Read more here on the U.S. Holocaust Museum Memorial's site (and visit it in D.C. if you ever have the opportunity).
• American music legends Sammy Davis, Jr. and B.B. King were born. Both were instrumental (no pun intended) in the evolution of bringing cultures together through sound. Read Sammy's own words as he reflected on his life in an autobiography by clicking here. For B.B. King's own words, click here.
• Charlie Chaplin releases his acclaimed work of art: Gold Rush. Happening as the golden age of Hollywood takes hold. Check it out on YouTube here!

What will 2025 bring?

For me...deeper dives into the American history I love so much- which means more for you all! Specifically, going back to some of my posts and following up on the "rabbit holes" I wanted to go down.

My hope is that it also brings the ability for this blog to be a sustainable business- so my work with Explore Here, History Unboxed, and the History List will be the foundation of affiliate marketing.

Collaborations are important to me as well~ continuing to meet like-minded history lovers, historians, and advocates is important. I'm grateful to those I've met in 2024, adding to the fantastic group of people, now friends, I've gotten to know at CW. (hint, hint if you have suggestions or people to introduce me to!)

Meeting people means more behind-the-scenes views into historic places (and the people that lived/worked there) like my trip to Stratford Hall, interviews, and much more!

• What will it bring for you?
• Will it include a little history?

If you want to start your own blog - hit me up for a free call and maybe I can help! Click here.

Closing words from history.

Today, an excerpt of a letter from Washington to Rochambeau, showing his excitement and "happiness" at the partnership with the French.

Click here to read in full with citations.

From George Washington to Lieutenant General Rochambeau, 16 July 1780

To Lieutenant General Rochambeau

Head Quarters in New Jersey July 16th 1780

Sir,

I hasten to impart to you the happiness I feel at the welcome news of your arrival;1 and as well in the name of the american army as in my own name to present you with an assurance, of our warmest sentiments for Allies, who have so generously come to our Aid.

As a citizen of the United States and as a Soldier in the cause of liberty, I thankfully acknowledge this new mark of friendship from his Most Christian Majesty—and I feel a most grateful sensibility for the flattering confidence he has been pleased to honor me with on this occasion.

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There is a huge practical disclaimer to the content on this blog, which is my way of sharing my excitement and basically journaling online.

1) I am not a historian nor an expert. I will let you know I’m relaying the information as I understand and interpret it. The employees of Colonial Williamsburg base their presentations, work, and responses on historical documents and mainly primary sources.

2) I will update for accuracy as history is constant learning. If you have a question about accuracy, please ask me! I will get the answer from the best source I can find.

3) Photo credit to me, Daphne Reznik, for all photos in this post, unless otherwise credited! All photos are personal photos taken in public access locations or with specific permission.