Philadelphia History

1682
William Penn arrives and names the area Philadelphia.

1752
Benjamin Franklin proves that lightning is a form of electricity with his kite experiment.

1765
Growing unrest over the Stamp Act passed by the English Parliament.

1774
The first Continental Congress is held at the State House in Philadelphia.

1776
Declaration of Independence is passed on July 2.

1780
Pennsylvania is the first state to abolish slavery.

1790
Philadelphia is made the United States capital, holding that title until 1800.

1832
Germantown railroad built.

1861
The Civil War begins, which is opposed by the city's upper classes.

1863
Battle of Gettysburg takes place.

1876
At the city's Centennial Exhibtion, the telephone is demonstrated.

1878
First use of electricity for lighting.

1901
The first Mummer's Parade is held.

1928
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is opened.

1950
Society Hill restoration is begun.

1976
The Liberty Bell is moved to Independence Mall, and America's 200th birthday is celebrated.

1987
U.S. Constitution bicentennial celebrated at Independence Hall.

1997
Plans for renovating Independence Mall are announced by the National Park Service.

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