Below are 5 interesting facts about October 23 in Alabama history:
1. On October 23, 1816, the first ever steamboat to travel the Coosa River, the "Columbia," was launched in Wetumpka, Alabama. This was a significant development in transportation in the state, as it allowed for easier and more efficient travel and trade.
2. In 1864, during the Civil War, a cavalry battle took place in Allatoona, Georgia, just across the Alabama state line. Known as the Battle of Allatoona Pass, the Union forces under General John M. Corse successfully defended the pass against the Confederate forces led by General Samuel G. French.
3. On October 23, 1945, the University of Alabama inaugurated its first-ever African American student, Autherine Lucy Foster. However, her enrollment was met with violent protests and she was later expelled due to safety concerns.
4. The first televised debate between George Wallace and Albert Brewer during the 1970 Alabama gubernatorial campaign took place on October 23. The debate covered a range of topics, including education, race relations, and economic development.
5. On October 23, 2011, tornadoes struck several counties in Alabama, causing widespread damage and resulting in 14 fatalities. It was part of the deadly tornado outbreak sequence of that year, which generated a record number of tornadoes in the United States.
5 Fun Facts About October 23 In Alabama History
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