Trump administration issues new guidelines to combat COVID-19 spread News
Photo Credit: Stephanie Sundier
Trump administration issues new guidelines to combat COVID-19 spread

The Trump administration issued updated guidelines to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in a press conference on Monday.

The new recommended measures include avoiding gatherings of more than 10 people, engaging in distance learning when possible, avoiding discretionary travel, and avoiding bars, restaurants and public food courts. State Department health official Dr. Deborah Birx reemphasized that people who are sick should remain home. She also reiterated that if one person in a house is sick, everyone should stay home. President Donald Trump did not impose a national quarantine or curfew, but acknowledge that the restrictions may remain in place until July or August, if not longer. Trump also acknowledged that the US may face a recession due to the impact the restrictions may have on the economy.

Trump called for governors to close schools, bars, restaurants, gyms and other locations that generally contain a large number of people if they see evidence of community transmission. School closures have already been enacted in some states and large metropolitan areas.

For more on COVID-19, see our special coverage.

THIS DAY @ LAW

38 Santee Sioux hanged by US for rebellion

On December 26, 1862, 38 Santee Sioux men were hanged in a mass execution for their roles in a rebellion against US authorities in Minnesota which left hundreds dead and made refugees of some 40,000 white settlers. Government annuities promised under a treaty with the Sioux had failed to arrive on schedule and credit for purchases was not advanced in the meantime, threatening the tribe with starvation. The Santee Sioux Tribe's members were deported first to South Dakota and ultimately to Nebraska, where they remain today. Learn more about the 1862 Minnesota Sioux Rebellion.

Louis XVI put on trial during French Revolution

On December 26, 1792, Romain de Sèze, a defense attorney for deposed King Louis XVI, presented a defense of his client. The former King was on trial before a French Revolutionary court on thirty-three charges, including treason and other crimes against the state. He was convicted on January 15, 1793 executed by guillotine on the following January 21.