History in 16th May

Johnson acquitted in impeachment trial

The Senate cannot reach a 2/3 majority vote, acquitting President Andrew Johnson of eleven articles of impeachment. His impeachment stemmed from the dismissal of Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, which violated the recently-instituted Tenure of Office Act. The measure fell one vote short of conviction and after two subsequent unsuccessul votes, Johnson remained in office.
More »
Sedition Act of 1918 passes

President Woodrow Wilson signs the Sedition Act of 1918 into law, making it illegal to use profane or malicious language towards the United States government. The act, passed in the context of World War I, amended the Espionage Act of 1917, which punished Americans citizens who worked with unfriendly foreign governments or interfered with military recruitment and the sale of war bonds.
More »
First Oscars

The first Academy Awards are given out at the Hotel Roosevelt in Hollywood, honoring outstanding achievements in film. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences had already announced the winners three months prior, and the First Academy Awards was the only ceremony not on the radio or television.