Historical Events tagged with "execution"

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

Execution of United Irishmen in Kildare

May 29th, 1798 226 years ago

Between 300 and 500 United Irishmen were executed as rebels by the British Army in County Kildare following the failed Irish Rebellion. These executions were part of a larger crackdown on the United Irishmen, who sought to end British rule in Ireland and promote Irish independence. The brutal repression was notable for its scale and aimed to deter further insurrection during a period of unrest.

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Politics & Government

Suppression of the Revolutionary Tribunal

May 31st, 1795 229 years ago

The Revolutionary Tribunal, established during the French Revolution, was suppressed due to its controversial role in executing perceived enemies of the revolution. The decree to abolish the tribunal stemmed from a growing sentiment against the harsh realities of the Reign of Terror and was part of the broader political changes occurring during the Thermidorian Reaction, which aimed to alleviate the oppressive atmosphere of the revolution. The tribunal's suppression marked a significant moment in the transformation of revolutionary governance and the establishment of a more moderate and less violent legal framework.

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Politics & Government

Robespierre and Saint-Just Executed by Guillotine

July 28th, 1794 230 years ago

Maximilien Robespierre and Louis Antoine de Saint-Just, key figures in the French Revolution and leaders of the Committee of Public Safety, were executed by guillotine in Paris. Their deaths marked a significant turning point as they had been central to the Reign of Terror, where they sought to purge France of enemies of the Revolution. Growing opposition against their extreme measures and the mounting dissatisfaction among the public led to their downfall. The execution was part of a broader plan to restore stability in post-revolutionary France.

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Politics & Government

Robespierre's Arrest Marks a Turning Point

July 27th, 1794 230 years ago

Maximilien Robespierre was arrested in Paris, having led the charge for the execution of over 17,000 individuals branded as 'enemies of the Revolution'. His arrest came as a result of growing discontent among members of the National Convention and widespread fear of his dictatorial power. Following his arrest, an unprecedented political upheaval ensued, resulting in Robespierre's execution the very next day. This swift turn of events heralded the end of the Reign of Terror and the beginning of a new political phase in France.

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Politics & Government

Execution of Queen Marie Antoinette

October 16th, 1793 231 years ago

Queen Marie Antoinette was executed by guillotine in Paris, marking a pivotal moment in the French Revolution. After being imprisoned for over a year, she was tried and convicted of treason against the revolutionary government. Her execution symbolized the end of monarchy in France and the rise of republican ideals.

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Politics & Government

Execution of Louis XVI by Guillotine

January 21st, 1793 232 years ago

Louis XVI of France was executed by guillotine after being found guilty of treason by the French National Convention. The trial and subsequent execution marked a significant moment in the French Revolution, symbolizing the shift from monarchy to republic. The execution took place in the Place de la Révolution in Paris, drawing a large crowd of onlookers, both supportive and opposed to the revolution. This act of capital punishment highlighted the turmoil and radical change occurring in France during this period.

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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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Military & Warfare

John André Executed as a Spy

October 2nd, 1780 244 years ago

British Army officer John André was hanged by the Continental Army for espionage. Captured while on a secret mission to negotiate with Benedict Arnold, André’s execution exemplified the harsh penalties for spying during the American Revolutionary War. His death was significant in demonstrating the seriousness with which both sides viewed acts of betrayal and espionage, and it heightened tensions during a critical period in the conflict.

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Military & Warfare

Thomas Hickey Hanged for Mutiny and Sedition

June 28th, 1776 248 years ago

Thomas Hickey, a private in the Continental Army and bodyguard to General George Washington, was hanged in New York City for mutiny and sedition. His execution occurred amidst rising tensions within the Continental Army as soldiers faced hardships and discontent over conditions and pay. Hickey's actions were deemed a severe threat to the unity and morale of the revolutionary cause, leading to a swift trial and execution.

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