Today in History: July 6 highlights include U.S. dollar adoption and historic sports milestone

On July 6 in history, several major milestones shaped economics, sports, and the U.S. military.

In 1785, the United States officially adopted the dollar as its national currency, replacing the British pound as lawmakers moved toward a distinct American monetary system. Although authorized that year, the first official dollar would not enter circulation until 1789.

On this date in 1957, Althea Gibson made history at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club by becoming the first Black athlete to win a Wimbledon singles title. She would go on to win the tournament again the following year, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in tennis and sports history.

On July 6, 1976, the U.S. Naval Academy admitted its first class of female midshipmen. The Class of 1980 included 81 women among more than 1,300 incoming students, marking a major step in the integration of women into U.S. military service academies.

These moments reflect turning points in American history across finance, sports, and military service.