Howard Robard Hughes, Jr. (December 24, 1905– April 5, 1976)

Howard Hughes was one of the wealthiest people in the world as well
as one of the most influential and well respected aviators in history,
setting multiple world air-speed records. He received a special
Congressional Gold Medal in 1939 for recognition of his  many
achievements in advancing the science of aviation. 

The H-4 “Hercules” flying boat (better known historically as the "Spruce Goose")

President Harry Truman signed into law the Economic Recovery
Program, also known as the Marshall Plan, which would provide
over $13 billion in aid to post-war Europe.

President Harry Truman signs the Economic Assistance Act.

Gen. George Marshall, who proposed the Marshall Plan

1959

Unregulated gambling had taken place in the early Nevada mining towns for some 
time, but was outlawed in 1909 as part of a nation-wide anti-gambling crusade. Due
to the subsequent declines in mining output and the decline of the agricultural sector during the Great Depression, Nevada legalized gambling with the approval from the legislature and the signature of Governor Fred Balzar.  
 

Gov. Balzar