December 2nd This Day in Missouri

On December 2, the following notable historical events related to Missouri occurred:

• 1806: Zebulon Pike’s expedition, launched from St. Louis to explore the southern Louisiana Purchase, continued its journey along the Arkansas River, though no specific Missouri activity is recorded for this date.
• 1856: During the “Bleeding Kansas” conflict, pro-slavery “Border Ruffians” from Missouri persisted in raids on Kansas anti-slavery settlements, fueling violent disputes over the territory’s slavery status.
• 1861: In the Civil War, Union General Henry W. Halleck, based in St. Louis, strengthened federal defenses, while Confederate guerrillas launched raids in rural Missouri, escalating internal tensions.
• 1864: Following Confederate General Sterling Price’s failed Missouri campaign, his forces, including Missouri troops, were regrouping in Arkansas after October defeats, with some logistical activity likely around this date.
• 1888: The Missouri Pacific Railroad advanced its southeast Missouri lines, connecting towns like Cape Girardeau to national markets, spurring economic growth and regional development.
• 1929: The Great Depression deepened in Missouri, with Kansas City and St. Louis facing mass unemployment, widespread business failures, and bank closures, severely impacting the state’s economy.
• 1963: Missouri communities, including St. Louis and Kansas City, continued memorial services for President John F. Kennedy, assassinated ten days prior, reflecting the nation’s prolonged mourning.