Today in History graphic for November 2 featuring Grand Rapids' Eva McCall Hamilton becoming Michigan's first woman legislator in 1920, Michigan voters approving the Bottle Bill in 1976, and the Chicago Cubs winning the World Series in 2016.

November 2 in History: Grand Rapids’ First Woman Legislator, Michigan’s Bottle Bill & Cubs World Series Victory

Scott Winters November 2, 2026

Discover what happened on November 2 in history as groundbreaking elections changed political representation, scientific and technological advances transformed daily life, unforgettable sporting achievements made headlines, and remarkable events helped shape the world we know today.

What Happened on November 2 in History?

On this day, Grand Rapids’ Eva McCall Hamilton became Michigan’s first woman legislator, the Spruce Goose made its only flight, Michigan voters approved the Bottle Bill, the first resident crew arrived at the International Space Station, and the Chicago Cubs ended their 108-year World Series drought.

NOVEMBER 2 – TODAY IN HISTORY:

1889 – North Dakota and South Dakota were admitted to the Union as the 39th and 40th U.S. states. President Benjamin Harrison reportedly shuffled the statehood documents before signing them so neither state could claim to have officially joined first.

1917 – British Foreign Secretary Arthur Balfour issued a declaration supporting the establishment of a national home for the Jewish people in Palestine while stating that the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities should not be prejudiced. The declaration became a pivotal document in the history of the Middle East.

1920 – Eva McCall Hamilton of Grand Rapids became the first woman elected to the Michigan Legislature, winning a seat in the Michigan Senate. Her election marked a major milestone for women’s political representation in the state.

1920 – Pittsburgh radio station KDKA broadcast results of the presidential election between Warren G. Harding and James M. Cox. The election-night broadcast became a landmark in the development of commercial radio and helped demonstrate radio’s potential as a mass medium.

1921 – Margaret Sanger helped establish the American Birth Control League, an organization advocating wider access to contraception and birth control information. The league eventually became a predecessor of Planned Parenthood.

1930 – DuPont announced the development of a new synthetic rubber that would become known as neoprene. Initially marketed as DuPrene, the material offered resistance to oil, chemicals, and weathering.

1936 – The BBC launched its regular high-definition television service from Alexandra Palace in London. Using the standards of the era, it became a landmark in the development of scheduled television broadcasting.

1947 – Howard Hughes piloted the enormous H-4 Hercules flying boat, nicknamed the “Spruce Goose,” on its only flight in Long Beach Harbor, California. Built largely of wood, the aircraft briefly rose about 70 feet above the water, proving that the giant experimental plane could fly.

1948 – President Harry S. Truman won a surprise reelection victory over Republican challenger Thomas E. Dewey. The upset became famous when Truman was photographed holding a Chicago Daily Tribune newspaper with the mistaken headline “DEWEY DEFEATS TRUMAN.”

1959 – Former television quiz show contestant Charles Van Doren admitted to a congressional committee that producers had supplied him with questions and answers during his appearances on NBC’s Twenty-One. His testimony exposed one of television’s most notorious scandals.

1976 – Former Georgia Governor Jimmy Carter defeated President Gerald R. Ford in the presidential election. Ford, who grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, had become president following Richard Nixon’s resignation in 1974 and was seeking his first full term.

1976 – Michigan voters approved the state’s landmark Bottle Bill, establishing a 10-cent deposit on many beverage containers to encourage recycling and reduce litter. The law later became one of the nation’s best-known container deposit programs.

1983 – President Ronald Reagan signed legislation establishing a federal holiday honoring civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. The holiday would be observed on the third Monday in January, beginning in 1986.

1986 – American hostage David Jacobsen was released in Beirut, Lebanon, after being held captive for approximately 17 months. His release brought relief to his family amid a continuing hostage crisis involving other Americans.

1988 – The Morris worm spread across the early internet, disrupting thousands of computers and drawing widespread attention to computer security. Created by graduate student Robert Tappan Morris, it became one of the first major internet security incidents.

1992 – Basketball star Magic Johnson announced that he would not return to the NBA as planned, following concerns surrounding his HIV diagnosis and reactions from other players. He later made a brief comeback with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996.

1995 – NBC aired “The Soup Nazi,” one of the most memorable episodes of Seinfeld. The episode introduced a notoriously strict soup vendor whose customers risked hearing the unforgettable command, “No soup for you!”

2000 – Expedition 1 arrived at the International Space Station aboard Soyuz TM-31, beginning a continuous human presence in orbit that has lasted ever since. The crew consisted of American astronaut William Shepherd and Russian cosmonauts Yuri Gidzenko and Sergei Krikalev.

2001 – Pixar’s animated comedy Monsters, Inc. opened in U.S. theaters, featuring the voices of John Goodman and Billy Crystal. The film became a major box-office hit and one of Pixar’s most beloved productions.

2003 – Fox premiered the comedy series Arrested Development, introducing television audiences to the dysfunctional Bluth family. The show became a cult favorite known for its elaborate running jokes and unconventional storytelling.

2003 – V. Gene Robinson was consecrated bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of New Hampshire, becoming the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church. His appointment sparked significant debate within the worldwide Anglican Communion.

2004 – President George W. Bush won reelection over Democratic challenger John Kerry, securing a second term in the White House. Bush received approximately 51% of the popular vote.

2004 – California voters approved Proposition 71, authorizing $3 billion in state bonds to support stem cell research and establishing a new state institute to oversee the program.

2012 – Disney’s animated film Wreck-It Ralph opened in U.S. theaters, following a video game villain who dreams of becoming a hero. The movie celebrated arcade gaming culture and became a box-office success.

2016 – The Chicago Cubs defeated the Cleveland Indians 8–7 in a dramatic 10-inning Game 7 of the World Series, ending the franchise’s 108-year championship drought. The historic victory came after the Cubs overcame a three-games-to-one series deficit.

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS ON NOVEMBER 2:

Pat Buchanan – 88 years old (1938) – Journalist and politician

Jim Bakken – 86 years old (1940) – Football player

Dave Stockton – 85 years old (1941) – Golfer

Stefanie Powers – 84 years old (1942) – Actress

Larry Little – 81 years old (1945) – Football player

Kate Linder – 79 years old (1947) – Actress

Lois McMaster Bujold – 77 years old (1949) – Author

Thomas Mallon – 75 years old (1951) – Novelist, essayist, and critic

Ron Lee – 74 years old (1952) – Basketball player

Dale Brown – 70 years old (1956) – Author and pilot

Carter Beauford – 69 years old (1957) – Drummer and composer

Willie McGee – 68 years old (1958) – Baseball player and manager

Jeff Tedford – 65 years old (1961) – Football player and coach

Bobby Dall – 63 years old (1963) – Bass player

Brian Kemp – 63 years old (1963) – Politician, 83rd Governor of Georgia

Lauren Vélez – 62 years old (1964) – Actress

David Schwimmer – 60 years old (1966) – Actor

Kurt Elling – 59 years old (1967) – Singer-songwriter

Scott Walker – 59 years old (1967) – Politician, 45th Governor of Wisconsin

Keith Jennings – 58 years old (1968) – Basketball player and coach

Reginald Arvizu – 57 years old (1969) – Rock musician

Meta Golding – 55 years old (1971) – Haitian-American actress

Marisol Nichols – 53 years old (1973) – Actress

Orlando Cabrera – 52 years old (1974) – Colombian-American baseball player

Nelly – 52 years old (1974) – Rapper

Danny Cooksey – 51 years old (1975) – Actor and musician

Chris Walla – 51 years old (1975) – Singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer

Matt Cullen – 50 years old (1976) – Ice hockey player

Rodney Buford – 49 years old (1977) – Basketball player

Reshma Shetty – 49 years old (1977) – British-American actress

Carmen Cali – 48 years old (1978) – Baseball player

Roddy White – 45 years old (1981) – Football player

Yunel Escobar – 44 years old (1982) – Cuban-American baseball player

Darren Young – 43 years old (1983) – Wrestler

Danny Amendola – 41 years old (1985) – Football player

Andy Rautins – 40 years old (1986) – American-Canadian basketball player

Natalie Pluskota – 37 years old (1989) – Tennis player

Kendall Schmidt – 36 years old (1990) – Singer, songwriter, and actor

Jimmy Garoppolo – 35 years old (1991) – Football player

Jordan Love – 28 years old (1998) – Football player

DAYS OF THE YEAR FOR NOVEMBER 2:

National Deviled Egg Day: Tuck into a tangy, creamy appetizer on Deviled Egg Day by mixing hard-boiled yolk with mayonnaise or mustard and adding a dash of paprika or curry powder.
International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists: The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists brings global attention to the dangers journalists face. It highlights the alarming fact that many attacks on journalists go unpunished. This day urges action to protect those who risk their lives to report the truth. It serves as a call...
Job Action Day: Discovering vocations that perfectly align with ambitions, where aspirations meet reality, is like uncovering a treasure trove of purpose.
Drowsy Driving Prevention Week: Drowsy Driving Prevention Week highlights the critical issue of driving while tired. Many people underestimate the dangers of drowsy driving, but it poses a significant risk on the road. Fatigued drivers often have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and reduced attention, which can lead to serious accidents. This campaign emphasizes...
National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week: National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week is a special time dedicated to recognizing the invaluable work done by animal shelters. These shelters serve as safe havens for millions of animals in need. They offer a second chance to pets that might otherwise face dire situations. This week highlights the efforts of...
Marlborough Anniversary Day: Marlborough Anniversary Day is a lively and cherished event in the Marlborough region of New Zealand. This day is set aside to celebrate the area's unique identity and achievements. The province, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant communities, takes pride in its history and natural beauty. Residents and visitors...
International Doge Day: Have you ever seen that meme of a Shiba Inu with Comic Sans text floating around its head? That’s Doge - an internet icon turned global symbol of joy. International Doge Day celebrates this beloved pup, Kabosu, whose quirky expression sparked a wave of positivity online. The day isn't just about memes...
Talk Money Week: Navigating the maze of money decisions, finding a trusted guide who helps you secure your future and achieve your dreams.
National Ohio Day: National Ohio Day is a festive occasion that honors Ohio's significant contributions to the United States. Known as the Buckeye State, Ohio is celebrated for its diverse culture and historical importance. From being the birthplace of several U.S. presidents to playing a crucial role in the Civil War, Ohio's impact...
Traffic Directors Day: Traffic Directors Day is a special occasion that spotlights the crucial work done by traffic directors in broadcasting. These professionals ensure that all radio and television programs run smoothly. With them, the seamless flow of entertainment, news, and advertisements that audiences enjoy daily is possible. Their job involves meticulous planning...
Be the Impact Day: Be the Impact Day is a special occasion dedicated to raising awareness and fostering action to improve life in community. It brings people together to focus on the pressing issues affecting neighborhoods, cities, towns and the planet. The day highlights the importance of individual and collective efforts in making a...
Dynamic Harmlessness Day: Imagine a day dedicated entirely to doing good and avoiding harm. That's what Dynamic Harmlessness Day is all about! Celebrated on November 2nd, this special day is a tribute to H. Jay Dinshah is the founder of the American Vegan Society. Dinshah was a pioneer who introduced the concept of...
National Broadcast Traffic Professionals Day: Behind the scenes, these unsung heroes keep your daily commute flowing smoothly, navigating the waves of traffic like seasoned sea captains.
Look for Circles Day: Look for Circles Day is a fun and engaging event that encourages people to notice circles in their everyday surroundings. This day invites everyone to take a closer look at the world around them and appreciate the simple yet fascinating shape of circles. Circles are everywhere, from the sun and...
All Souls Day: All Souls Day is an annual event, a key celebration in several western Christian faiths. The day is spent by many in fasting or prayer (or both) for the souls in Purgatory awaiting final judgment. The goal of the praying faithful is to lift souls out of Purgatory to ascend...
Day of the Dead: Embrace a vibrant celebration where vivid colors, captivating altars, and joyful gatherings pay homage to ancestors with deep respect and cherished memories.
National Medical Cannabis Week: National Medical Cannabis Week is here. Are you ready to weed between the lines and discuss the high points of medical marijuana? It is a week of breaking down barriers to medically necessary cannabis use. This week also means showing that the grass might actually be greener when people in...
Marzipan Week: With its unique texture and delicate almond flavor, marzipan is a delicious treat — perfect for those with a sweet tooth!
World Communication Week: World Communication Week sparks conversations and connections during this time each year. This exciting week celebrates communication's vital role in our personal and professional lives! It encourages everyone, from friends and family to coworkers and communities, to reach out, share ideas, and build stronger relationships through effective communication. How to Celebrate...
National Fig Week: How often do you crave figs? They might not come to mind every day, but during National Fig Week, they take center stage. This week celebrates the versatility and nutrition packed into every fig. Whether eaten fresh, dried, or used in cooking, figs have a lot to offer. From their...
National Patient Transport Week: National Patient Transport Week honors the vital work of hospital transporters—the people who move patients with care and attention. It highlights how these team members keep patients and hospitals connected. Their efforts help patients get to tests, surgeries, or rooms on time. Each trip supports smoother daily operations and helps reduce...
Cuckoo Dancing Week: Cuckoo Dancing Week celebrates the playful “Dance of the Cuckoos,” the signature theme of Laurel and Hardy films. Fans step into the groove from across the globe, echoing the duo’s charm with lively, lighthearted moves. This festival lifts spirits and connects people through shared laughter and movement. It brings joy through...