February 25, 1836: Samuel Colt patented a mechanism that enabled a gun to be fired multiple times without reloading. During the Mexican-American War, the federal government became a large customer of the revolving-breech pistol. The relationship grew, and by the beginning of the Civil War in 1861, the Colt revolver was arguably the world’s best-known weapon. Colt was also known for developing advanced manufacturing techniques, such as interchangeable parts and an organized production line. The Colt company remains in business and has sold over 30 million guns.

Brandus, Paul. This Day in U.S. Military History (pp. 57-58). Bernan Press. Kindle Edition.