January 1st



1804: French rule ends in Haiti. Haiti goes on to prove that there really is a country that can be more screwed up AFTER the French leave.


1899: Spanish rule ends in Cuba. Cuba goes on to prove that there really is a country that can be more screwed up AFTER the Spanish leave.


1908: For the first time, a ball is dropped in New York City's Times Square to signify the start of the New Year at midnight. Of course, balls are dropped in Times Square for other reasons every night.


1994: The North American Free Trade Agreement comes into effect, guaranteeing employment forever for Lou Dobbs.