Historical Events tagged with "capture"

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.

Military & Warfare

Cochrane's Bold Capture of El Gamo

May 6th, 1801 223 years ago

Captain Thomas Cochrane led the HMS Speedy, a 14-gun vessel, to a remarkable victory by capturing the 32-gun Spanish frigate El Gamo off the coast of Egypt. This encounter showcased Cochrane's tactical genius as he utilized the Speedy's speed and maneuverability to outsmart the larger ship. The engagement began with an initial skirmish before escalating into a close-quarters battle, ultimately leading to the surrender of El Gamo. This victory significantly boosted the morale of British naval forces during this period.

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Military & Warfare

Napoleon's Capture of Jaffa and Aftermath

March 7th, 1799 226 years ago

Napoleon Bonaparte captured the city of Jaffa in Palestine during his campaign in Egypt. Following the capture, he ordered the execution of over 2,000 Albanian captives identified as prisoners of war. This brutal act was part of a severe punitive response to potential threats and desertions. The event highlighted the ongoing conflict in the region and the harsh realities of warfare during this era.

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Military & Warfare

Capture of Fort Ticonderoga by Militia Leaders

May 10th, 1775 249 years ago

A small Colonial militia, led by Ethan Allen and Colonel Benedict Arnold, successfully captured Fort Ticonderoga from British forces. The fort, located on Lake Champlain in New York, was significant due to its strategic position. The surprise attack occurred early in the morning when the militia made their way into the fort and caught the defenders off guard. This victory provided much-needed artillery for the Continental Army and bolstered the morale of the colonial resistance.

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Military & Warfare

Joan of Arc Captured by Burgundians

July 14th, 1430 594 years ago

Joan of Arc, a key figure in the Hundred Years' War, was captured while leading a military campaign in May. Following her capture in Compiègne, she was handed over to Pierre Cauchon, the Bishop of Beauvais, by the Burgundians. This transfer initiated her trial and eventual condemnation, significantly impacting the conflict between the French and English forces. Joan's dedication to her cause made her a symbol of hope for the French, and her capture by the opposing side marked a pivotal moment in the war.

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Military & Warfare

Republic of Venice Captures Udine

June 7th, 1420 604 years ago

Troops of the Republic of Venice successfully captured Udine, marking the end of the independent rule of the Patria del Friuli. The siege was part of the larger territorial ambitions of Venice in the region, reflecting its desire to expand its influence in northeastern Italy. This transition brought important strategic and economic changes to the area as control shifted away from local governance to the Venetian state. The capture of Udine was a key victory that altered the political landscape of the time.

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Politics & Government

François Grimaldi Captures the Rock of Monaco

January 8th, 1297 728 years ago

Disguised as a monk, François Grimaldi leads his men to seize the fortress overlooking the Rock of Monaco. This cunning strategy allows Grimaldi's forces to infiltrate and overpower the fortification, marking the beginning of the Grimaldi family’s dominance over Monaco. The successful conquest not only establishes their control but also sets the stage for their family's ongoing lineage in the region.

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Military & Warfare

James I Captures Medina Mayurqa

December 31st, 1229 795 years ago

James I of Aragon successfully entered Medina Mayurqa, now known as Palma, leading a military campaign against the Muslim forces that occupied Majorca. His forces besieged the city, marking a significant victory during the broader Christian Reconquista. The capture of the city symbolized not only a strategic gain but also a cultural shift as the island shifted back under Christian control. James I’s entry is celebrated as a pivotal moment in the history of Majorca.

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Military & Warfare

Jurchen Siege of Kaifeng Captures Emperor Qinzong

January 9th, 1127 898 years ago

Jurchen soldiers from the Jin dynasty launched a military campaign against the Song dynasty, resulting in the siege and sacking of Bianjing, the capital city known as Kaifeng. The attack culminated in the capture of Emperor Qinzong of Song, alongside other members of the court. This incursion played a crucial role in the transition of power in Northern China during the Jin–Song Wars.

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Military & Warfare

Yusuf ibn Abi'l-Saj Captured by Qarmatians

December 7th, 927 1097 years ago

Yusuf ibn Abi'l-Saj, the emir of Adharbayjan, faced defeat and capture by the Qarmatians near Kufa. This significant confrontation highlighted the growing power of the Qarmatians during a time of political fragmentation in the region. The battle showcased the Qarmatians' military prowess and their ability to challenge established authorities near Baghdad.

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