January 3 in History: From Apple's Incorporation to Babe Ruth's Trade and Beyond
Today is January 3, 2026, marking the third day of the year with 362 days remaining. On this day in history, Apple Computer was officially incorporated in Cupertino, California in 1977 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Mike Markkula Jr. In 1777, General George Washington's army achieved a significant victory over British troops in the Battle of Princeton, a pivotal moment in the Revolutionary War. Fast forward to 1861, the Georgia state militia seized Fort Pulaski under the orders of Governor Joseph E. Brown, preceding the state's secession from the Union.
Moving on to sports history, in 1920, the Boston Red Sox made a fateful decision to sell Babe Ruth's contract to the New York Yankees, sparking a new era of success for the Yankees and a prolonged period of disappointment for Red Sox fans. Alaska officially became the 49th state of the United States in 1959, while in 1990, Manuel Noriega surrendered to U.S. forces after seeking refuge in the Vatican's diplomatic mission following his ousting as the Panamanian leader.
In more recent events, in 2022, Elizabeth Holmes was convicted by a San Jose jury for deceiving investors about her company Theranos' purported revolutionary medical device. The year 2025 saw a tragic incident in the Iranian city of Kerman, where two bombs exploded during a commemoration for General Qassem Soleimani, resulting in the loss of at least 84 lives and injuring hundreds. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the bombings.
In conclusion, January 3 has been a significant date in history, marked by notable events ranging from technological milestones to military victories and tragic incidents. These events serve as reminders of the diverse and impactful moments that have shaped our world throughout the years.