The first U.S. patent for a separable electric attachment plug was issued to inventor and manufacturer Harvey Hubbell of Bridgeport, Connecticut (No. 774,250). One part adapted the Edison screw socket to provide its own double-slotted receptable now familiar throughout North America. Into it, a separate double flat-prong plug could be slipped. This solved the problem of twisted wires caused with a screw connection. Small slots reduced the chance of a dangerous shock. Thus, with a two-prong plug on any electric device, "œelectrical power in buildings may be utilized by persons having no electrical knowledge or skill." On 11 Aug 1896 he had patented the pull-chain switch light socket (No. 565541). His manufacturing company, Harvey Hubbell Inc. exists today.

Keith Ellison, a Democrat, has become the first Muslim to be elected to the US Congress by winning a Minnesota seat in the House of Representatives. He reached this political milestone by defeating two other candidates in Minnesota's 5th Congressional District, which covers the Minneapolis area. Ellison won 56% of the vote, defeating Republican Alan Fine and the Independence Party's Tammy Lee, both of whom garnered 21% of the vote. A Green Party candidate received 2 percent.