March 14 in History: Eli Whitney’s Cotton Gin, Henry Ford’s Assembly Line & Detroit Prohibition Whiskey Incident

Scott Winters March 14, 2026 1 Comment

Discover what happened on March 14 in history, along with notable celebrity birthdays and fun Days of the Year to celebrate.

What Happened on March 14 in History?

Important events on this day include Eli Whitney receiving a patent for the cotton gin, Henry Ford announcing the moving assembly line that revolutionized automobile manufacturing, and a strange Prohibition-era whiskey truck sinking near Detroit while locals tried to fish bottles out of the water.

MARCH 14 – TODAY IN HISTORY:

1794 – Eli Whitney received a patent for the cotton gin.

1865 – Brunson Harbor, MI was renamed Benton Harbor.

1900 – U.S. currency went on the gold standard with the ratification of the Gold Standard Act.

1920 – During Prohibition, a truck that was hauling a load of Jack Daniels whiskey from Canada to Detroit broke through the ice and sank. Federal agents noticed Detroit residents fishing for the bottles in the water. They declared the practice illegal.

1914 – Henry Ford announced the new continuous motion method to assemble cars. The process decreased the time to make a car from 12½ hours to 93 minutes.

1923 – President Warren Harding became the first President to file an income tax report.

1942 – Orvan Hess and John Bumstead became the first in the U.S. to successfully treat a patient, Anne Miller, using penicillin.

1943 – President Franklin D. Roosevelt became the first President to fly in an airplane while in office.

1958 – The Recording Industry Association of America handed out their first gold record award to Perry Como for his song “Catch A Falling Star”.

1964 – Jack Ruby was sentenced to death for fatal shooting of accused John F. Kennedy assassin Lee Harvey Oswald in Dallas, TX in front of a live national television audience.

1967 – John F. Kennedy’s body was moved from a temporary grave to a permanent one at Arlington National Cemetery.

1979 – The Census Bureau reported that 95% of all Americans were married or would get married.

1980 – Quincy Jones received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on his 47th birthday.

1983 – OPEC agreed to cut its oil prices by 15% for the first time in its 23-year history.

1989 – Imported assault guns were banned in the U.S. under President George H.W. Bush.

1991 – An indictment was unsealed in Los Angeles, CA charging four LAPD officers with beating black motorist Rodney King.

1992 – Farm Aid was attended by about 40,000 people in Irving, TX.

1994 – The Linux kernel version 1.0.0 was released.

1996 – President Bill Clinton committed $100 million for an anti-terrorism pact with Israel to track down and root out Islamic militants.

2002 – A Scottish appeals court upheld the conviction of a Libyan intelligence agent for the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103. A five-judge court ruled unanimously that Abdel Basset Ali al-Megrahi was guilty of bringing down the plane over Lockerbie, Scotland.

2003 – Robert Blake was released from jail on $1.5 million bail. Blake had been jailed for the murder of his wife Bonny Lee Bakley.

2003 – Israel “Cachao” Lopez received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS ON MARCH 14:

Paul Rader – 92 years old (1934) – 15th General of The Salvation Army

Raymond J. Barry – 87 years old (1939) – Actor

Clyde Lee – 82 years old (1944) – Basketball player

Michael Martin Murphey – 81 years old (1945) – Singer-songwriter and guitarist

Walter Parazaider – 81 years old (1945) – Saxophonist

William J. Jefferson – 79 years old (1947) – Lawyer and politician

Billy Crystal – 78 years old (1948) – Actor, comedian, director, producer, and screenwriter

Rick Dees – 76 years old (1950) – Actor and radio host

Jerry Greenfield – 75 years old (1951) – Businessman and philanthropist, co-founded Ben & Jerry's

Butch Wynegar – 70 years old (1956) – Baseball player and coach

Tad Williams – 69 years old (1957) – Author

Laila Robins – 67 years old (1959) – Actress

Tamara Tunie – 67 years old (1959) – Actress

Heidi Hammel – 66 years old (1960) – Astronomer and academic

Kevin Brown – 61 years old (1965) – Baseball player and coach

Billy Sherwood – 61 years old (1965) – Guitarist, songwriter, and producer

Kevin Williamson – 61 years old (1965) – Actor, director, producer, and screenwriter

Elise Neal – 60 years old (1966) – Actress and producer

Megan Follows – 58 years old (1968) – Canadian-American actress

Larry Johnson – 57 years old (1969) – Basketball player and actor

Kristian Bush – 56 years old (1970) – Singer-songwriter and guitarist

Brian Quinn – 50 years old (1976) – Improvisational comedian and actor

Dan Avidan – 47 years old (1979) – Musician and internet personality

Chris Klein – 47 years old (1979) – Actor

George Wilson – 45 years old (1981) – Football player

Stephen Curry – 38 years old (1988) – Basketball player

Patrick Patterson – 37 years old (1989) – Basketball player

Shotzi Blackheart – 34 years old (1992) – Wrestler

J. T. Miller – 33 years old (1993) – Ice hockey player

Ansel Elgort – 32 years old (1994) – Actor and DJ

Brandon Aubrey – 31 years old (1995) – Multi-sport athlete

Simone Biles – 29 years old (1997) – Gymnast

Marvin Bagley III – 27 years old (1999) – Basketball player

Chrisean Rock – 26 years old (2000) – Rapper and reality television personality

Nico Mannion – 25 years old (2001) – Italian-American basketball player

Abby Ryder Fortson – 18 years old (2008) – Actress

DAYS OF THE YEAR FOR MARCH 14:

National Pi Day: An exciting day for math enthusiasts, celebrate this famous number — it's the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter — with infinite enthusiasm and endless fun!
International Day of Mathematics: Whether you're designing a skyscraper, or simply counting up your spare change, a strong foundation in mathematics is essential.
International Day of Action for Rivers: Every year, on March 14th, people around the globe observe the International Day of Action for Rivers. This day highlights the vital role rivers play in everyday life, from supplying drinking water and irrigating crops to supporting fisheries, recreation, and spiritual and cultural traditions. Rivers are not just moving water, either...
Dog Theft Awareness Day: Dog Theft Awareness Day is a special day that illuminates the problem of dog theft. Celebrated annually, it aims to educate dog owners on protecting their furry friends from theft. This day is significant because it raises awareness of a serious issue affecting many pet owners, encourages responsible pet ownership...
International Fanny Pack Day: A handy accessory that keeps essentials within arm's reach, blending fashion and function for a hassle-free, on-the-go lifestyle.
National Learn About Butterflies Day: These delicate, winged creatures, with their vibrant colors and graceful flight, bring a touch of enchantment to the natural world.
Bake a Pie in Solidarity Day: Bake a Pie in Solidarity Day is a celebration that goes beyond the simple act of baking. This special day invites people to come together by baking pies as a gesture of unity and compassion. Whether it’s a flaky apple pie, a savory quiche, or a rich chocolate tart, the focus...
Crowdfunding Day: Crowdfunding is the practice of funding a project with small amounts of money contributed by a large number of people. It can be as simple as chipping in a few dollars to help a neighbor recover from an emergency, or as ambitious as backing a brand-new gadget, album, or indie...
Dita e Verës: Dita e Verës, or "Summer Day," is a joyful celebration that marks the end of winter and the welcoming of warmer days in Albania. It’s not just about the change in season but a vibrant expression of hope and renewal. Streets come alive with parades, music, and the lively energy...
National Children’s Craft Day: Kids' creative hands, turning odds and ends into masterpieces, filling homes with colorful, quirky treasures that capture their boundless imagination.
Legal Assistants Day: Need help navigating the legal maze? There are folks out there who make sure you don't get lost when the legal stuff gets tricky.
International Ask a Question Day: Curiosity sparks innovation, enhances knowledge, and fosters connection. Engage your mind and ignite your creativity by seeking answers through inquiry!
Moth-er Day: Appreciating the fascinating, often misunderstood, creatures that come out at night and bring a touch of magic to the darkness.
National Potato Chip Day: Crunchy and salty, these crispy snacks are perfect for any occasion. Pair with your favorite dip or enjoy them on their own.
Save a Spider Day: Save a Spider Day celebrates an unlikely hero in the ecosystem—spiders. This day encourages people to appreciate and protect spiders rather than fear or squash them. Spiders play an essential role in balancing nature, as they keep insect populations under control. Many people are quick to dismiss spiders, but their presence...
Dribble to Work Day: Navigating the urban landscape, the rhythmic bounce echoing determination, a daily prelude to the challenges that lie ahead, a quiet salute to resilience.
National Genealogy Day: Digging into family trees unveils a captivating journey through generations, offering insights into heritage and the lives of ancestors.
Science Education Day: Learning science equips you with the tools to solve problems, understand the world around you, and make informed decisions that shape our future.
White Day: A day when a gesture in return blooms, an opportunity to surprise and brighten, a chance to give back with a heartfelt touch.
National Write Your Story Day: National Write Your Story Day is all about sharing your life through words. Celebrated annually, it's a day for everyone to become a storyteller. This special day encourages us to dive into our experiences, memories, and dreams and then write them down. It's not just about creating stories; it's about...
National Urban Ballroom Dancing Day: Urban ballroom dance is one of the most elegant forms of dancing, combining grace, rhythm, and creativity in a way that captivates both dancers and onlookers. National Urban Ballroom Dancing Day celebrates this art form, encouraging people to experience the beauty of movement and the joy of dancing with a...
Professional Speakers Celebration Day: Navigating the art of impactful communication, these skilled individuals inspire audiences, weaving compelling narratives that resonate.
Genius Day: Genius Day is a celebration honoring individuals whose exceptional intellect and creativity have profoundly influenced our world. It serves as a tribute to those whose groundbreaking contributions have reshaped our understanding and inspired generations. By highlighting these remarkable figures, Genius Day encourages everyone to appreciate the power of innovative thinking. It...
National Groundwater Awareness Week: A vital resource, groundwater is a hidden treasure beneath our feet. Its protection is crucial for our future and the planet's.
Brain Awareness Week: Understanding the intricate dance of neurons and synapses unravels the mysteries of cognition, revealing the brain's brilliance.
PI Week: Pi Week brings math to life in a way that feels playful and unexpected. It centers around the number π, the one that starts with 3.14 and helps explain circles. But this week isn’t just about numbers. It pulls in kids, parents, teachers, and even scientists. In schools, students dive into...
Make Mine Chocolate: "Make Mine Chocolate" is a lively campaign urging people to think twice before giving live rabbits as Easter gifts. The campaign encourages people to opt for chocolate bunnies instead. This approach helps spread the message of responsible pet ownership while offering a sweet alternative that won't end up in shelters...
World Glaucoma Week: Learning about eye health highlights the silent threat to vision, encouraging proactive care and awareness.
Sleep Awareness Week: A good night's sleep is a vital component of a healthy lifestyle — proper sleeping habits can be beneficial in improving overall health.
World’s Largest Rattlesnake Roundup: The World's Largest Rattlesnake Roundup, held in Sweetwater, Texas, is a unique event that draws thousands of visitors each year. This lively gathering is about more than just catching rattlesnakes. In fact, it's a full-fledged festival with activities like a carnival, beauty pageant, gun shows, and even a snake-eating contest. The...
Universal Women’s Week: Every woman has the right to equal pay, reproductive rights, and freedom from violence. Let's empower women and create a more just society.
Girl Scout Week: Girl Scout Week is a vibrant celebration that brings together Girl Scout members, alumni, and supporters. This special week kicks off with Girl Scout Sunday and wraps up with Girl Scout Sabbath, featuring daily themes that highlight different aspects of the Girl Scout experience. Activities include wearing Girl Scout uniforms...
Campfire USA Birthday Week: Campfire USA Birthday Week is a celebration of youth empowerment, outdoor learning, and community spirit. It’s a time when Camp Fire councils across the country come together to recognize the growth and contributions of young people involved in the organization. Through various activities like outdoor adventures, community service, and small-group...
Catholic Sisters Week: Catholic Sisters Week is a vibrant celebration honoring the contributions of religious women. This special week brings attention to the spirituality, mission, and community-building efforts of Catholic sisters who work in various areas, including education, healthcare, and social justice. Communities come together to acknowledge the sisters' unwavering commitment and impact...
National Bubble Gum Week: National Bubble Gum Week is a lively celebration that brings joy through the simple act of blowing bubbles. During this week, people indulge in the fun and creativity that bubble gum offers. Bubble gum, with its sugary sweetness and colorful appeal, has a way of bringing out smiles and reminding us...
National Green Week: National Green Week is an exciting initiative that brings attention to the importance of environmental sustainability. Schools and organizations across the country use this week to engage students in activities that promote greener living. The event aims to inspire young minds to adopt eco-friendly habits that can make a lasting...
National Aardvark Week: Have you ever heard of aardvarks? These curious animals are like nature's oddballs roaming the African plains. Aardvarks are known for their long noses and love of ants and termites. With powerful legs, they dig to find their meals, creating big burrows that serve as homes. At night, they come...
Ramadan: During this holy month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, focusing on spiritual reflection and community. Ramadan is a time for self-improvement and bringing people together in celebration of faith.