31 July

Contemporary era

1971

First crewed lunar rover

On 31 July 1971, the Apollo 15 crew drove the first crewed rover on the Moon.

Contemporary era

1948

New York airport opens

On 31 July 1948, Idlewild International Airport, the future JFK, was inaugurated.

From the Middle Ages to the Enlightenment

1790

First US patent

On 31 July 1790, the first US patent was granted, signed by George Washington.