This week, readers sent us kudos for what we do, questions about sorting out conflicting health care claims, complaints about our coverage of President Obama’s citizenship, and inquiries about political fundraising.
Stories by FactCheck.org
July 7, 2009
President Gerald Ford was born Leslie Lynch King Jr. in 1913. His name wasn’t legally changed to Gerald R. Ford until 1935.
Source: Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
July 6, 2009
In July 1776, an estimated 2.5 million people lived in the United States.
Source: Census Bureau
July 5, 2009
At 26, Edward Rutledge of South Carolina was the youngest signer of the Declaration of Independence. Benjamin Franklin, age 70, was the oldest signer.
Source: Independence Hall Association
July 4, 2009
In 2007, $4.7 million worth of American flags were imported by the United States, the vast majority of that amount ($4.3 million) from China. The U.S. exported $2.4 million in U.S. flags that year, with half going to Mexico.
Source: Census Bureau
July 3, 2009
There is a greater than 1 in 4 chance that hot dogs and pork sausages served at picnics this weekend in the U.S. originated in Iowa.
Source: Census Bureau
July 2, 2009
As of opening day this year, 25 percent of players in Major League Baseball were from Latin American countries.
Source: National Baseball Hall of Fame
July 1, 2009
Hurricane Mitch hit Honduras in 1998, killing 5,600 people and causing $2 billion in damage.
Source: CIA World Factbook
June 30, 2009
Honduras achieved independence from Spain on Sept. 15, 1821.
Source: CIA World Factbook
June 29, 2009
Emperor penguins weigh up to 88 pounds. Their average height is 45 inches.
Source: National Geographic