Historical Events tagged with "colonialism"

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

Siege of Khartoum Commences Under General Gordon

March 13th, 1884 141 years ago

The Siege of Khartoum began as Mahdist forces, commanded by Muhammad Ahmad (the Mahdi), surrounded the city to challenge British control. General Charles Gordon, sent to evacuate the besieged British citizens and soldiers, found his position increasingly precarious. The siege would last for nearly a year, concluding with a violent breach of the city's defenses. This confrontation showcased the complexities of British imperialism in Sudan and the strength of local resistance movements.

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Military & Warfare

French Forces Capture Sơn Tây Citadel

December 16th, 1883 141 years ago

The French captured the Sơn Tây citadel, a significant fortress in Vietnam, during the Tonkin Campaign. This strategic victory occurred after intense military operations aimed at solidifying French control over northern Vietnam. The citadel's capture allowed the French to establish a stronger foothold in the region, significantly obstructing Vietnamese resistance efforts led by national hero Phan Đình Phùng and his compatriots who sought to repel French colonization.

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Politics & Government

Treaty of Huế Established French Protectorate

August 25th, 1883 141 years ago

The Treaty of Huế was signed between France and the Nguyễn dynasty of Vietnam, formalizing the French protectorate over the central regions of Annam and Tonkin. This agreement followed a series of military actions and political maneuvers by France in Vietnam, notably the capture of Hà Nội. Through this treaty, Vietnam conceded substantial control to French authorities while retaining nominal sovereignty over internal matters.

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Military & Warfare

Significant Clash at Tel el-Kebir

September 13th, 1882 142 years ago

The Battle of Tel el-Kebir marked a pivotal encounter during the Anglo-Egyptian War, where British forces, led by General Sir Archibald Alison, engaged the Egyptian army near the Nile Delta. The battle commenced in the early hours, utilizing surprise tactics to scale fortified positions. This confrontation was crucial in establishing British control over Egypt and occurred as a response to increasing nationalist sentiments and demands for British intervention in Egypt to protect European interests, particularly the Suez Canal.

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Politics & Government

Foundation of the Republic of Stellaland

July 26th, 1882 142 years ago

In 1882, the Republic of Stellaland was founded by British settlers in Southern Africa. This short-lived republic was established in response to conflicts over land and resources in the region, and it aimed to create a more organized governance for settlers. Governed by a provisional government, the republic represented an assertion of British influence amidst local African territories, resulting in significant tensions.

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Politics & Government

Boundary Demarcation between Guinea and Sierra Leone

June 28th, 1882 142 years ago

The Anglo-French Convention established the borders between Guinea and Sierra Leone, defining territorial claims in West Africa. This agreement was crucial for colonial powers in regulating territorial disputes and preventing conflicts over land. The negotiations involved representatives from both British and French governments, emphasizing the importance of mutual recognition of each nation's territorial aspirations in the region. The convention marked a notable attempt to delineate and formalize colonial territories in West Africa.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Eviction of Māori from Parihaka Settlement

November 5th, 1881 143 years ago

In a significant act of state power, Minister of Native Affairs John Bryce led a force of 1600 armed volunteers and constabulary field forces to evict around 2000 residents from the Māori settlement at Parihaka. This action resulted in the destruction of the settlement, illustrating the tensions between the New Zealand government and Māori communities over land confiscations and sovereignty.

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Religion & Philosophy

Muhammad Ahmad Claims Mahdi Status in Sudan

June 29th, 1881 143 years ago

Muhammad Ahmad, a Sudanese religious leader, proclaimed himself the Mahdi, or messianic redeemer of Islam, in a pivotal moment for the region. His announcement in 1881 came amidst growing dissatisfaction with the ruling Turco-Egyptian administration, which had imposed heavy taxes and faced resistance from various Sudanese tribes. Ahmad's charisma and claim to divine guidance quickly galvanized support, allowing him to build a significant following among those seeking an end to foreign oppression. This declaration marked the beginning of a movement that would challenge existing authorities and shape Sudan's future.

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Politics & Government

Tunisia Becomes a French Protectorate

May 12th, 1881 143 years ago

In May 1881, Tunisia was established as a French protectorate following the signing of the Bardo Treaty between France and the Bey of Tunis. This treaty marked the beginning of French colonial rule over the region, which faced resistance from local leaders and reformists. The agreement granted France considerable control over Tunisia's foreign affairs and military, including the authority to intervene in local matters, effectively diminishing the Bey's power. The protectorate aimed to stabilize the region and exploit its resources, drawing widespread interest in its economic potential.

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