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.

Crime & Law

Nicolas J. Pelletier Executed by Guillotine

April 25th, 1792 232 years ago

Nicolas J. Pelletier was the first criminal executed by guillotine in France, marking a significant shift in the methods of capital punishment. He was convicted of highway robbery and murder, which were grave offenses at the time. His execution by guillotine took place in Paris, serving as a demonstration of the new method of execution, designed for efficiency and to be more humane than previous methods. This event marked the beginning of a new era in France's legal and penal systems.

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Politics & Government

Murder of Former Emperor Peter III of Russia

July 17th, 1762 262 years ago

Peter III of Russia was murdered while in custody after a coup led by his wife, Catherine II. Following his abdication, Peter was held at Ropsha Palace, where he was under the supervision of the new empress’s supporters. He was reportedly killed by officers who considered him a threat to Catherine's rule. His death marked a significant turning point in the history of the Russian Empire as it solidified Catherine's hold on power and her subsequent reign as one of Russia's most prominent rulers.

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Crime & Law

Executions Following Raid on Mother Clap's House

May 9th, 1726 298 years ago

Five men were arrested at Mother Clap's molly house in London and subsequently executed at Tyburn. The molly house, known for hosting gatherings of homosexual men, was targeted under the harsh anti-sodomy laws of the time. The raid and executions highlighted the severe legal repercussions for same-sex relationships in early 18th-century England.

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Crime & Law

Execution of Joseph Blake, the Highwayman

November 11th, 1724 300 years ago

Joseph Blake, known as Blueskin, was executed for his notorious highway robberies. His most infamous act was attacking Jonathan Wild, who was both a thief and the Thief-Taker General. Blake’s career as a highwayman made headlines and culminated in his trial at the Old Bailey. His execution drew attention to the rampant crime and societal issues of the time.

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Crime & Law

Thomas Blood's Bold Heist of Crown Jewels

May 9th, 1671 353 years ago

Thomas Blood, disguised as a clergyman, attempted to steal the Crown Jewels stored in the Tower of London. On this occasion, he entered the Tower under the guise of a trustworthy figure and managed to gain access to the jewels' location. The audacious heist involved intricate planning and deception, ultimately culminating in a scuffle that led to Blood's arrest. His daring escape plan was as notable as the theft itself, showcasing the lengths one would go to for fame and fortune.

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Crime & Law

Pendle Witches Trial Begins at Lancaster Assizes

August 18th, 1612 412 years ago

The trial of the Pendle witches commenced at Lancaster Assizes, involving twelve individuals accused of witchcraft. This infamous case is noted for its intensity and the societal fearful climate surrounding witch hunts at the time. The defendants, mostly from two Lancashire families, were charged with the murder of a pedlar using witchcraft. The trial was fueled by local tensions and the Protestant Reformation's impact on England's beliefs about witches, marking a pivotal moment in English legal history. The proceedings drew significant attention and ultimately resulted in several convictions and executions.

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