This Day in History for January 1 — Emancipation Proclamation Signed, and More

Here’s a look at some interesting events that took place on this day in history:

1863: President Abraham Lincoln signs the final Emancipation Proclamation, ending slavery in the rebelling states (more info)

1934: Alcatraz Island becomes a United States federal prison (more info)

1942: The Declaration by the United Nations is signed by 26 countries, creating the international peacekeeping organization (more info)

1959: Fulgencio Batista, dictator of Cuba, is overthrown by Fidel Castro's forces during the Cuban Revolution (more info)

2002: Euro banknotes and coins become legal tender in 12 of the European Union's member states (more info)