From the birth of NASA to landmark moments in literature and exploration, July 29 has left its mark on history. 1858 – Harris Treaty SignedThe United States and Japan signed the Harris Treaty, opening additional Japanese ports to American trade and strengthening diplomatic relations between the two nations. 1890 – Vincent van Gogh DiesDutch painter Vincent van Gogh died two days after suffering a self-inflicted gunshot wound. 1914 – First Transcontinental Telephone ConversationThe first successful transcontinental telephone test call took place, demonstrating the growing reach of long-distance communications across the United States. Journalist Peter Jennings, filmmaker Ken Burns, and former NFL quarterback Dak Prescott all celebrate birthdays on July 29.