Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift.

What Happened on July 4, 1840

Historical Events

  • The Cunard Line's 700 ton wooden paddle steamer RMS Britannia departs from Liverpool bound for Halifax, Nova Scotia on the first transatlantic crossing with a scheduled end

Famous Birthdays

  • James McGranahan, American composer, born in Adamsville, Pennsylvania (d. 1907)

Famous Deaths

Karl Ferdinand von Graefe (1787-1840)

German surgeon who helped create modern plastic surgery, dies at 53

Died in 1840 1840 Highlights

About July 4, 1840

Calendar: Gregorian
Day of the Week: Saturday
How Long Ago? 184 years and 29 days
Leap Year: Yes

Star Sign: Cancer