July 7, 1947 – The Roswell, New Mexico discovery of metallic and rubber debris leads to a series of conflicting reports and myths involving their possible extraterrestrial origin. It prompts numerous Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) sightings. Officially the debris is now believed to be from a secret U. S. military balloon that was launched to spy on Soviet atomic tests.
July 9, 1956 – Broadcasting personality Dick Clark makes his first appearance as host of the show American Bandstand. Clark hosted the show through 1988. He is also known for hosting ABC’s New Year’s Eve TV broadcast from 1974-75 through 2005-06.
July 11, 1804 – Vice President Aaron Burr fatally shoots his long-time political antagonist Alexander Hamilton during a duel in Weehawken, New Jersey.
July 13, 1787 – Congress enacts the Northwest Ordinance. It establishes procedures for transforming territories into states to be considered equal to the original 13 (Illinois becomes one such state in 1818).