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August 12th In NYC History

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On this date in...

1790...New York's year-long reign as the nation's capital ends when the seat of the federal government is moved to Philadelphia. Ten years later the capital is moved to Washington, D.C.

1977...Spurned by the year-long reign of terror by the "Son of Sam" serial killer, Governor Hugh Carey signs the "Son of Sam Law" in order to prevent criminals from profiting from their crimes by selling their stories. The law, which takes effect two days after "Son of Sam" killer David Berkowitz is apprehended by police, becomes a model for similar legislation throughout the country.