Historical Events tagged with "crime"
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.
Execution of Lincoln's Assassination Conspirators
Four individuals convicted for their roles in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln were executed by hanging. This event took place at the Old Arsenal Penitentiary in Washington, D.C., marking a significant moment in the aftermath of Lincoln's death. The conspirators were Mary Surratt, Lewis Powell, David Herold, and George Atzerodt, all found guilty of participating in the plot to murder the president. The swift execution highlighted the Union's desire for justice and the consequences of treason during a tumultuous period in American history.
Continue ReadingDakota 303 Convicted in Minnesota
Following the U.S.-Dakota War, a military tribunal in Minnesota found 303 Dakota warriors guilty of various crimes, including murder and rape against white settlers. This decision was made after a series of violent encounters during the war, which erupted from escalating tensions over land and resources. The trials resulted in death sentences for many, with 38 men ultimately executed by hanging, while others received reprieves.
Continue ReadingDaniel Sickles Kills Philip Barton Key II
Daniel Sickles, a U.S. Representative, shot and killed Attorney General Philip Barton Key II after discovering an affair between Key and his wife, Teresa. The murder occurred in Washington, D.C., and garnered significant media attention due to the prominent positions of those involved. Sickles claimed temporary insanity as a defense, a notion that would influence the legal landscape in future cases involving similar claims.
Continue ReadingFirst Documented Bank Heist in U.S. History
In 1831, the City Bank on Wall Street was robbed, with thieves making off with $245,000 in cash, equivalent to millions today. The heist was meticulously planned, and most of the stolen funds were later recovered due to prompt law enforcement action. This audacious crime marked the first of its kind in American banking history and raised concerns about security in financial institutions at the time.
Continue ReadingEllen Turner Abducted by Edward Gibbon Wakefield
Ellen Turner, a 15-year-old girl, was abducted by Edward Gibbon Wakefield in July 1826. Wakefield, who had a future role in establishing colonies in South Australia and New Zealand, aimed to secure the girl for his own interests. The incident occurred in Shrigley, England, and involved manipulation and deceit on Wakefield's part to accomplish his intentions.
Continue ReadingDanmark Vesey and Slaves Executed in South Carolina
Thirty-five enslaved individuals, including Denmark Vesey, were hanged in South Carolina after being accused of planning a rebellion. The plot aimed to revolt against the oppressive system of slavery in the region, which fueled widespread fear among slave owners. The event highlighted the tensions surrounding slavery and the organized resistance within the enslaved community.
Continue ReadingExecution of Cato Street Conspirators
The Cato Street Conspirators were executed following a plot to assassinate key members of the British government, including Prime Minister Lord Liverpool. This group, motivated by political grievances and economic distress, sought to ignite a revolution similar to that of France. Their foiled conspiracy led to a public trial and the eventual hanging of five conspirators at the end of their legal proceedings, with the remaining participants receiving varying sentences.
Continue ReadingJohn Bellingham Found Guilty of Assassination
John Bellingham was convicted of murdering Spencer Perceval, the British Prime Minister, in the House of Commons. The assassination shocked the nation, as it was the first time a sitting Prime Minister had been killed. Bellingham, motivated by personal grievances and a desire for political attention, shot Perceval on May 11, 1812. He was quickly apprehended, and his trial drew significant public interest. On May 18, 1812, he was found guilty and sentenced to death by hanging, setting a precedent for political violence in Britain.
Continue ReadingAssassination of Prime Minister Spencer Perceval
Spencer Perceval, the British Prime Minister, was assassinated by John Bellingham in the lobby of the House of Commons. Bellingham, a merchant, believed that the government had wronged him and sought revenge through this act. The shooting occurred shortly after Perceval entered the building, shocking both immediate witnesses and the nation. Bellingham was apprehended immediately after the act, leading to a rapidly unfolding legal process.
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