Kosovo declares independence from Serbia

On February 17, 2008 the Assembly of Kosovo declared independence from Serbia. While Serbia denounced the declaration as illegal, the international community has remained divided on this issue. Several nations including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Taiwan, and Turkey have recognized Kosovo’s independence, but others such as Russia maintain that the declaration violates international law. The majority of countries and international organizations, including the UN, have yet to take a position on the legality of Kosovo’s independence.

The Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo went into effect on June 15, 2008. Read the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.

THIS DAY @ LAW

India constitution ratified

On January 26, 1950, India ratified its constitution, formally making the new country a republic. On the same day, Rajendra Prasad was inaugurated as the republic's first president. The anniversary is celebrated today as Republic Day in India.

Tennessee became first state to ban alcohol sales

On January 26, 1838, Tennessee became the first US state to pass a law prohibiting the general sale of alcohol; fines paid by lawbreakers were put towards the support of public schools. Read more about the history of Prohibition.