Historical Events tagged with "memphis"

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

American Airlines Flight 009 crashes in Virginia

February 23rd, 1945 80 years ago

American Airlines Flight 009 experienced a tragic accident while approaching Rural Retreat, Virginia, resulting in the loss of 17 lives. The aircraft, a Douglas DC-3, was en route from LaGuardia Airport in New York to Memphis, Tennessee, when it crashed amidst adverse weather conditions. Witnesses reported heavy fog and snow that severely limited visibility. The investigation revealed that the crew faced significant challenges due to the prevailing weather, ultimately leading to the aircraft's descent and crash near the rural area.

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Crime & Law

Machine Gun Kelly's Surrender to FBI

September 26th, 1933 91 years ago

Gangster George 'Machine Gun Kelly' Barnes surrenders to the FBI in Memphis, Tennessee, during a tense standoff. As he emerged from hiding, he famously shouted, "Don't shoot, G-Men!" This phrase quickly became a nickname for FBI agents across the nation, symbolizing the burgeoning conflict between organized crime and law enforcement during the Prohibition era. His surrender marked a significant moment in the fight against gangsters who thrived during this time.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Ida B. Wells Releases Southern Horrors

October 26th, 1892 132 years ago

Ida B. Wells published 'Southern Horrors: Lynch Law in All Its Phases' to expose the barbaric practice of lynching in the American South. This publication arose from her investigations into the lynching of Black individuals, particularly the case of three Black men in Memphis accused of raping a white woman. Wells used her platform as a journalist to highlight the racial injustices and societal implications of lynching, pursuing the truth about these brutal acts and rallying for anti-lynching legislation.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Memphis Race Riots Result in Widespread Violence

May 1st, 1866 158 years ago

The Memphis Race Riots were a significant outbreak of violence that erupted between white residents and the African American community in Memphis, Tennessee. Lasting from May 1 to May 3, the riots resulted in the deaths of 46 blacks and 2 whites, as well as numerous injuries and property destruction. The racial tensions were fueled by the post-Civil War atmosphere, economic competition, and the empowerment of freedmen, with many witnesses reporting horrific acts of violence committed during the riots. The uprisings highlighted the severe racial strife of the era and drew national attention to the plight of African Americans in the South.

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Military & Warfare

Union Naval Victory at Memphis

June 6th, 1862 162 years ago

The First Battle of Memphis was a naval engagement that resulted in the Union forces capturing Memphis, Tennessee from the Confederates. This confrontation marked a significant moment in the Western Theater of the Civil War, showcasing the effectiveness of Union naval power. The battle involved a fleet commanded by Captain Charles H. Davis engaging Confederate forces led by Commodore George N. Hollins. The Union victory not only secured Memphis as a strategic point on the Mississippi River but also boosted morale for Northern forces as they continued their campaign in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Confederate Evacuation of Fort Pillow

June 4th, 1862 162 years ago

Confederate troops evacuated Fort Pillow, allowing Union forces to advance towards Memphis. This strategic move was part of the broader campaign for control over the Mississippi River. The fall of Fort Pillow would significantly impact the Union's naval operations. The evacuation was prompted by growing Union pressure in the area.

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