Historical Events tagged with "free state"

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.

Accidents & Tragedies

Passenger Train and Truck Collision at Geneva Station

January 4th, 2018 7 years ago

A collision occurred between a passenger train and a truck at a level crossing at Geneva Station, located between Hennenman and Kroonstad in the Free State of South Africa. The accident resulted in the tragic deaths of twenty people, with an additional 260 individuals suffering injuries. The train, operated by Shosholoza Meyl, was traveling when it struck the truck, leading to significant chaos at the scene. Emergency services once again were put to the test in responding to such a large-scale incident, highlighting ongoing safety concerns over railway crossings in the region.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Irish Republican Prisoners Launch Hunger Strikes

October 14th, 1923 101 years ago

Thousands of Irish republican prisoners initiated hunger strikes to protest their internment without trial in 1923. This large-scale protest emerged after the Irish Civil War, highlighting the unresolved grievances among republicans against the new Free State government. The prisoners demanded recognition of their rights and an end to their detention without due process, drawing significant attention both nationally and internationally.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Shelling of the Four Courts Begins Irish Civil War

June 28th, 1922 102 years ago

Free State forces commenced an assault on the Four Courts in Dublin, marking the start of the Irish Civil War. This military action aimed to eliminate anti-Treaty forces that had occupied the building. The shelling resulted in significant destruction and a violent conflict that lasted for several months.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

General Piet Cronjé Surrenders at Paardeberg

February 27th, 1900 125 years ago

British military leaders received an unconditional notice of surrender from Boer General Piet Cronjé during a pivotal engagement at the Battle of Paardeberg. The battle, which took place in the Free State region of South Africa, was marked by intense fighting and strategic maneuvering. It was a significant victory for British forces amidst the Second Boer War, showcasing the challenges faced by the Boer fighters as their positions became increasingly untenable against the British siege tactics.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Kansas Becomes the 34th U.S. State

January 29th, 1861 164 years ago

Kansas was officially admitted as the 34th state of the United States, following years of conflict over its status as a free or slave state. The admission occurred after a protracted struggle known as 'Bleeding Kansas', which was marked by violent confrontations between pro-slavery and anti-slavery factions. The state's admission was a significant event reflecting the growing tensions leading up to the Civil War, highlighting the divisions over slavery in American society.

Continue Reading