Historical Events tagged with "abraham lincoln"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Seward Announces Thirteenth Amendment Adoption

December 18th, 1865 159 years ago

US Secretary of State William Seward proclaimed the adoption of the Thirteenth Amendment, which prohibited slavery throughout the United States. This significant declaration marked a pivotal moment in American history, as it officially abolished the institution of slavery, reinforcing the outcomes of the Civil War and reflecting a commitment to human rights and freedom for all individuals. Seward's announcement symbolized a new chapter for the United States, emphasizing the nation's dedication to equality and justice.

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Crime & Law

Capture and Death of John Wilkes Booth

April 26th, 1865 159 years ago

In Virginia, Union cavalry troopers tracked down and confronted John Wilkes Booth, the assassin of President Abraham Lincoln. After a tense standoff in a barn, Booth was shot dead by Union soldiers. The operation was executed following a manhunt for Booth, who had fled after the assassination. It marked the dramatic end of the search for Lincoln's killer.

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Politics & Government

Abraham Lincoln's Death and Johnson's Swearing In

April 15th, 1865 159 years ago

Abraham Lincoln died in Washington, D.C. after being shot by John Wilkes Booth in Ford's Theatre the previous evening. Following Lincoln's death, Vice President Andrew Johnson was sworn in as the 17th President of the United States. The events unfolded dramatically in the midst of the American Civil War, as the nation grappled with the sudden loss of its leader and the uncertain future ahead.

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Politics & Government

Lincoln Visits Captured Richmond Virginia

April 4th, 1865 159 years ago

In a significant moment during the American Civil War, U.S. President Abraham Lincoln made a visit to Richmond, Virginia, which had recently been captured by Union forces. This marked a pivotal moment as Richmond was not only the capital of the Confederate States but also a symbol of the Confederacy's struggle. Lincoln's visit occurred just a day after the Union troops took control of the city, emphasizing his commitment to the reunification of the nation and signaling a crucial turning point in the war.

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Politics & Government

Delaware's Rejection of the Thirteenth Amendment

February 8th, 1865 160 years ago

Delaware declined to ratify the Thirteenth Amendment, delaying the formal criminalization of slavery until its nationwide adoption in December 1865. This decision effectively prolonged the existence of slavery in the state despite the growing movement to abolish it. Following the Federal government's push for emancipation and the progressive momentum building across the Union, Delaware’s choice highlighted the complexities surrounding the issue of slavery in border states. The state finally ratified the amendment on February 12, 1901, coinciding with the 92nd anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth.

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Politics & Government

Thirteenth Amendment Passed by Congress

January 31st, 1865 160 years ago

The United States Congress passed the Thirteenth Amendment, a pivotal constitutional amendment that abolished slavery throughout the United States. Following intense debates and advocacy, the House of Representatives voted in favor of the amendment, with significant support from President Abraham Lincoln, who emphasized the importance of ending slavery in his efforts to unify the nation. The amendment was then submitted to the states for ratification, marking a critical moment in American history during the Civil War.

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Politics & Government

Nevada Joins the United States as 36th State

October 31st, 1864 160 years ago

Nevada was officially admitted as the 36th state of the United States following rapid growth due to the silver mining boom in the region. The state capital, Carson City, became a focal point for governance. The admission was also strategically timed to bolster support for President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, as Nevada's electoral votes were critical for his re-election campaign. The unique circumstances surrounding Nevada's statehood highlighted the significance of resource-rich territories in the expanding United States.

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Military & Warfare

Confederate Attack on Fort Stevens

July 11th, 1864 160 years ago

Confederate forces launched an assault on Fort Stevens, aiming to breach the defensive perimeter of Washington, D.C. Under the command of General Jubal A. Early, the Confederates sought to capitalize on Union vulnerabilities. The battle was notable for the involvement of President Abraham Lincoln, who visited the front lines to assess the situation. The confrontation highlighted the imperiled state of the Union's capital amidst the ongoing Civil War.

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Politics & Government

Lincoln Grants Yosemite Valley to California

June 30th, 1864 160 years ago

Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant, transferring Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias to the state of California for preservation and public enjoyment. This significant act aimed to protect the area from development while promoting its use for recreation. It marked the first time the U.S. federal government set aside a natural area specifically for public use, laying the foundation for the future National Park system.

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