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.

Politics & Government

Cetshwayo Becomes King of the Zulu Nation

September 1st, 1873 151 years ago

Cetshwayo kaMpande ascended to the throne of the Zulu nation following the death of his father, Mpande. This significant transition in leadership occurred in Zululand, a region in present-day South Africa. Cetshwayo's ascension was notable as he inherited leadership of one of the most powerful kingdoms in Southern Africa. He aimed to consolidate power and navigate the complex political landscape influenced by colonial interests in the region.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Abolition of Slavery in Puerto Rico

March 22nd, 1873 151 years ago

On March 22, 1873, the Spanish National Assembly voted to abolish slavery in Puerto Rico. This decision followed a growing movement against slavery in both Spain and its colonies. The decree marked a significant change for the enslaved population in Puerto Rico, which had been subjected to forced labor for generations. The laws enacted provided freedom to thousands, impacting social and economic structures throughout the island.

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Military & Warfare

Wolseley Expedition Arrives in Manitoba

August 24th, 1870 154 years ago

The Wolseley Expedition arrived in Manitoba to quell the Red River Rebellion, which had been primarily driven by the Métis people seeking political rights and recognition. Led by Colonel Garnet Wolseley, the contingent aimed to restore Canadian authority in the region after the provisional government was formed by Louis Riel. The arrival symbolized the assertion of Canadian sovereignty over the territory and initiated a series of negotiations with the Métis leadership to end the conflict peacefully. Ultimately, this mission played a vital role in shaping Manitoba's future.

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Military & Warfare

Beginning of the Ten Years' War in Cuba

October 10th, 1868 156 years ago

The Ten Years' War commenced as Cuban rebels declared independence from Spanish rule, led by Carlos Manuel de Céspedes. On October 10, 1868, in the town of La Demajagua, Céspedes issued the Grito de Yara, calling for liberation from centuries of colonial oppression. This insurrection was fueled by long-standing grievances, including social inequality and the desire for autonomy, setting off a protracted conflict that would involve numerous battles and significant loss of life throughout the island, drastically altering Cuba's political landscape.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Grito de Lares: Puerto Rican Revolt Against Spain

September 23rd, 1868 156 years ago

The Grito de Lares was a significant revolt in Puerto Rico aimed at ending Spanish colonial rule. Led by figures like Ramón Emeterio Betances and José de la Cruz, this uprising occurred in the town of Lares. The insurgents proclaimed a short-lived republic and sought to gain independence. Although it was suppressed swiftly by Spanish forces, the Grito de Lares marked a pivotal moment in Puerto Rican nationalism and the struggle for self-determination, inspiring future movements against colonial authority.

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Military & Warfare

British and Indian Forces Defeat Tewodros II's Army

April 10th, 1868 156 years ago

In Abyssinia, British and Indian forces successfully engaged Emperor Tewodros II's army at Arogee. The battle resulted in significant casualties for the Ethiopian forces, with estimates of around 700 Ethiopian soldiers killed and many more injured. In contrast, British and Indian troops suffered only two fatalities. This military engagement marked a decisive moment in the Second Abyssinian War, which was largely motivated by a British desire to rescue captives and secure trade routes.

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Politics & Government

Singapore Declared a British Crown Colony

April 1st, 1867 157 years ago

Singapore was officially declared a crown colony of Great Britain, emphasizing its strategic importance in maritime trade. This transition marked a significant change in governance as it shifted from a privately owned territory under the East India Company to direct control by the British government. The change aimed to enhance administrative efficiency and bolster the defense of the region amidst growing regional tensions, especially with the Dutch in Indonesia. The move reinforced Singapore's role as a vital hub in the British Empire.

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Military & Warfare

Peru and Chile Unite Against Spanish Forces

December 5th, 1865 159 years ago

In December 1865, Peru formed an alliance with Chile to combat Spanish colonial military forces threatening their sovereign interests. Following a series of escalating tensions regarding Spanish interference in Latin American affairs, the two South American nations sought to defend their newly established independence from colonial rule. The Chincha Islands, rich in guano resources, became the focal point of this conflict as Spain attempted to assert control over these valuable territories. The united Peruvian and Chilean forces aimed to repel the Spanish incursions effectively.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

March Leading to the Morant Bay Rebellion

October 11th, 1865 159 years ago

Hundreds of black men and women led a march in Jamaica, initiating the Morant Bay rebellion. This gathering was driven by grievances over economic hardships, racial tensions, and injustice faced by the local population. The protest, prominent in Morant Bay, was aimed at highlighting the struggles of the black majority against colonial authorities, seeking reform and improvement in their living conditions. It marked a significant point of collective action against oppression in Jamaican society.

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