Historical Events tagged with "military"

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

The Great Locomotive Chase Unfolds

April 12th, 1862 163 years ago

In a daring raid during the American Civil War, Union officer James J. Andrews led a group of volunteers to steal a Confederate train in Big Shanty, Georgia. Their goal was to disrupt supply lines by sabotaging railroad tracks as they traveled north. They managed to hijack the train and embarked on a chase, but faced challenges as Confederate forces pursued them. The pursuit involved a dramatic race and conclusion at several locations, capturing the imagination of many who followed their endeavors.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Union and Confederate Forces Clash at Shiloh

April 6th, 1862 163 years ago

In Tennessee, Union General Ulysses S. Grant's forces faced off against Confederate troops commanded by General Albert Sidney Johnston. This confrontation marked the beginning of a fierce battle at Shiloh, a strategic location for both sides during the American Civil War. The fighting commenced early in the morning, with Johnston's troops launching a surprise attack on Grant's encamped soldiers, leading to intense conflict that would last over two days. The outcome of this battle would provide significant insights into both armies' capabilities and strategies.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Battle of Yorktown Commences During Civil War

April 5th, 1862 163 years ago

The Battle of Yorktown began in Virginia, marking a significant engagement in the American Civil War. General George B. McClellan led Union forces in the Peninsula Campaign against Confederate General John B. Magruder. The conflict commenced with McClellan's attempt to seize control of the vital Confederate stronghold at Yorktown, which was a strategic location near the Chesapeake Bay, thereby taking control of the route to Richmond, the Confederate capital. The battle saw extensive use of siege tactics as Union forces bombarded the Confederate positions, highlighting the evolving nature of warfare at the time.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Union Victory at Glorieta Pass Against Confederates

March 28th, 1862 163 years ago

In March 1862, Union forces engaged Confederate troops at Glorieta Pass, New Mexico, aiming to halt the Confederate advance into the territory. The battle began on March 26 and culminated with the Union troops successfully defending their position. Key figures in the conflict included Union Colonel John P. Slough and Confederate Colonel William Steele. The Union victory was critical, as it prevented the Confederacy from securing valuable territory and resources in the West.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

First Battle of Ironclad Warships

March 9th, 1862 163 years ago

A historic clash occurred between the USS Monitor and the CSS Virginia in Hampton Roads. This engagement marked the first confrontation between ironclad warships, fundamentally changing naval warfare. The battle resulted in no sinking of either ship, yet demonstrated the effectiveness and durability of ironclad designs over traditional wooden vessels. Resulting in a strategic draw, both ships were unable to claim decisive victory.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Battle of Valverde Near Fort Craig

February 21st, 1862 163 years ago

Fought near Fort Craig, the Battle of Valverde was a key engagement during the American Civil War in New Mexico Territory. On February 21, 1862, Confederate forces led by Colonel Henry H. Sibley clashed with Union troops commanded by Colonel Edward R. S. Canby. The battle was significant as it represented Confederate aspirations to seize control of the West and their attempt to secure supply lines and territory in New Mexico. Despite fierce fighting, the day culminated in a Confederate tactical victory, affecting subsequent Union strategy in the region.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Ulysses S. Grant Captures Fort Donelson

February 16th, 1862 163 years ago

Fort Donelson fell to Union forces led by General Ulysses S. Grant after a strategic siege, marking a significant early victory in the American Civil War. Located in Tennessee, the fort's capture facilitated Union control over key waterways. This success not only bolstered Northern morale but also secured Grant's reputation as a capable military leader. The surrender of Confederate General John B. Floyd marked a turning point in the war's dynamics, showcasing the effectiveness of Union tactics.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Confederate Attack on Fort Donelson Begins

February 15th, 1862 163 years ago

Brigadier General John B. Floyd led Confederate forces against Union troops commanded by General Ulysses S. Grant at Fort Donelson in Tennessee. The Confederate forces attempted to break the Union encirclement but were ultimately unsuccessful. The siege intensified, leading to the surrender of the Confederate garrison the following day, marking a significant loss for the Confederacy in the western theater of the American Civil War.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Union Forces Capture Fort Henry

February 6th, 1862 163 years ago

Forces under the command of Ulysses S. Grant and Andrew H. Foote captured Fort Henry in Tennessee, marking the Union's first significant victory in the American Civil War. This strategic fortification controlled access to the Tennessee River, and its capture allowed Union forces to launch further operations in the region. The victory was achieved through coordinated naval and land assaults, demonstrating effective military tactics and communication. The successful operation bolstered Union morale and set the stage for further campaigns in the western theater of the war.

Continue Reading