Historical Events tagged with "militia"

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.

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Pittsburgh Workers Stage Sympathy Strike

July 21st, 1877 147 years ago

Following unrest among Baltimore and Ohio Railroad workers, who rioted after the deaths of nine rail workers due to militia action, workers in Pittsburgh initiated a sympathy strike. The situation escalated as the state militia responded to the strike with aggressive force, resulting in violence and chaos in the streets. This act of solidarity among workers demonstrated the growing tensions between labor and authority during a time of economic struggle and unrest.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Fenian Raiders Repelled in Canada East

June 7th, 1866 158 years ago

Around eighteen hundred Fenian raiders invaded the Saint-Armand and Frelighsburg areas of Canada East, looting and plundering the region. The incursion was part of a broader movement by the Fenian Brotherhood, aiming to provoke a war between the United States and Great Britain. Local militia and Canadian forces swiftly responded to protect the communities, resulting in the raiders being repelled back across the border into the United States.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Richmond Bread Riot Sparks Civil Unrest

April 2nd, 1863 161 years ago

In 1863, women in Richmond, Virginia, led a large-scale bread riot due to rising food prices and scarcity. This protest saw hundreds of women march through the streets, demanding access to food as the Civil War intensified. The situation escalated, leading to the looting of bakeries and stores. The local militia intervened, but the unrest highlighted the severe hardships facing families amidst ongoing wartime struggles.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

John Albion Andrew Approved to Raise Black Militia

January 26th, 1863 162 years ago

Governor John Albion Andrew of Massachusetts received authorization from Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton to form a militia organization comprised of men of African descent. This permission marked a significant shift in military policy during the American Civil War, as it opened up opportunities for African Americans to contribute to the Union's war effort. Andrew had long advocated for the enlistment of Black soldiers, recognizing their vital role in achieving victory against the Confederacy. The formation of this regiment would ultimately lead to the establishment of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Militia Act Creates New Zealand Army

March 25th, 1845 179 years ago

The New Zealand Legislative Council approved the first Militia Act, establishing the foundation for what would become the New Zealand Army. This Act was a response to increasing concerns about local security, particularly in light of tensions between Māori tribes and European settlers. Following this legislation, military training and organization became more formalized in New Zealand, allowing for a structured defense system that could respond to potential conflicts. Key figures in the Council were instrumental in pushing for this legislation, reflecting the growing importance of a defended colony.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Militia Resists Mexican Troops in Gonzales

October 2nd, 1835 189 years ago

Mexican troops attempted to disarm residents in Gonzales, Texas, leading to a confrontation with a local militia. The government aimed to retrieve a cannon lent to the settlers for defense against Native American attacks. However, the residents, led by John H. Moore, were determined to keep their weaponry and mounted fierce resistance, reflecting the growing tensions between Texians and the Mexican authority.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Nat Turner's Rebellion of Enslaved Virginians

August 23rd, 1831 193 years ago

Nat Turner led a violent uprising of enslaved individuals in Virginia, aiming to revolt against the oppressive system of slavery. The rebellion began on a Southampton County plantation, spreading to several neighboring farms. Turner, driven by religious visions, believed he was chosen to lead his people to freedom. The rebellion resulted in the deaths of numerous white individuals and sparked widespread fear among slaveholders. In retaliation, state and local militias suppressed the uprising violently, leading to the execution of many participants, including Turner himself.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

British and Allies Win Battle of Chateauguay

October 26th, 1813 211 years ago

In this significant conflict, British regulars, Canadian militia, and Mohawk warriors together launched a successful defense against the United States Army at the Chateauguay River in Canada. On this day, Major General de Salaberry commanded the combined forces to strategically outmaneuver and outnumber the American forces led by Brigadier General Wade Hampton. Their victory thwarted American invasion plans and fortified British defenses in Upper Canada.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Fort Mims Massacre by Creek Red Sticks

August 30th, 1813 211 years ago

In a violent confrontation, over 500 settlers, including more than 250 armed militia members, were killed by the Creek 'Red Sticks' at Fort Mims, situated north of Mobile, Alabama. The attack marked a pivotal moment in the Creek War, showcasing the growing tensions between the Creek Nation and American settlers. Fort Mims served as a critical defensive outpost for settlers in the region.

Continue Reading