Events with tag - Federal Legislation

April 10, 1790

First US Patent System

The United States established its first federal patent system through the Patent Act of 1790, creating a standardized framework for protecting intellectual property rights under the supervision of Thomas Jefferson.

December 6, 1865

Thirteenth Amendment Ratification

The Thirteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was officially ratified, marking the formal abolition of slavery throughout the United States. This historic amendment passed after intense political negotiations and required approval from three-fourths of the states.

June 18, 1934

Indian Reorganization Act

The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 was a pivotal legislation that ended the destructive allotment era and restored Native American tribal sovereignty. It provided framework for tribal self-governance, land restoration, and cultural preservation.

July 5, 1935

Wagner Act Passage

The Wagner Act, also known as the National Labor Relations Act, was signed into law, revolutionizing American labor rights by protecting workers' ability to unionize, engage in collective bargaining, and strike without employer retaliation.

May 3, 1940

Constitution Day History

Constitution Day, originally established as 'I Am an American Day' in 1940, evolved into a national observance celebrating the signing of the U.S. Constitution and promoting constitutional education across America.

December 30, 1969

Federal Coal Mine Safety Act

Landmark legislation that transformed workplace safety in American coal mining industry, establishing comprehensive safety standards and mandatory inspections following the tragic Farmington Mine disaster of 1968.

October 17, 1988

Indian Gaming Regulatory Act

The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) was passed by Congress, establishing the first comprehensive federal framework for tribal gaming operations in the United States. This landmark legislation balanced tribal sovereignty with federal oversight and has led to a $34 billion gaming industry supporting hundreds of tribal communities.

November 16, 1990

NAGPRA Enactment

The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act became law, marking a pivotal moment in protecting Indigenous cultural heritage by establishing legal guidelines for the recovery and return of Native American cultural items, including human remains and sacred objects.