1. Abraham Lincoln Delivered A Speech In Quincy
On July 3, 1858, future President of the United States Abraham Lincoln delivered a powerful speech in Quincy, Illinois. Lincoln was then running for the U.S. Senate and the speech was part of the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates in Illinois.

2. The Worst Train Disaster In U.S. History Occurred In 1918
On July 3, 1918, the deadliest train disaster in U.S. history occurred in Chicago when two trains collided. The crash resulted in the deaths of 85 people and more than 200 others were injured.

3. The Chicago Cubs Hosted Their First Game At Wrigley Field
On July 3, 1916, the Chicago Cubs hosted their first game at Wrigley Field. The team had previously played at the West Side Grounds but moved to their new and iconic stadium on the North Side of Chicago.

4. The First McDonald's Franchise Opened
On July 3, 1955, the first McDonald's franchise opened on Des Plaines Avenue in Des Plaines, Illinois. This location is considered the birthplace of the fast-food restaurant chain, which today has more than 37,000 locations worldwide.

5. President Obama Celebrated The Fourth Of July In Montana
On July 3, 2009, former President Barack Obama celebrated the Fourth of July with his family in Montana. The trip included a visit to Yellowstone National Park and attending a naturalization ceremony for active military members and their families.