Historical Events tagged with "milwaukee"

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.

Crime & Law

Jeffrey Dahmer Sentenced to Life in Prison

February 15th, 1992 33 years ago

Jeffrey Dahmer was sentenced to 15 consecutive life terms in prison for the murder and dismemberment of 17 young men and boys in Milwaukee. The trial revealed horrifying details of his gruesome crimes, including necrophilia and cannibalism. Dahmer's actions shocked the nation, leading to widespread media coverage and public outrage. His admission of guilt and subsequent sentencing marked a pivotal moment in understanding violent crime in America.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Midwest Express Airlines Flight 105 Crash

September 6th, 1985 39 years ago

Midwest Express Airlines Flight 105, a McDonnell Douglas MD-80, crashed shortly after takeoff from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, resulting in the deaths of all 31 people on board. The flight was scheduled to fly to New Orleans, Louisiana, but tragically lost altitude shortly after takeoff due to a control system failure. The aircraft impacted a field near the airport, marking one of the deadliest aviation incidents in Wisconsin's history.

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Sports & Recreation

Rollie Fingers Achieves 300 Saves Milestone

April 21st, 1982 42 years ago

Rollie Fingers, the renowned closer for the Milwaukee Brewers, made baseball history by becoming the first pitcher to achieve 300 career saves. This milestone was reached during a game against the Texas Rangers, showcasing Fingers' exceptional skill and durability as a relief pitcher. Celebrated for his unique handlebar mustache and distinctive windup, Fingers' achievement not only highlighted his personal prowess but also the evolving role of relief pitchers in the game of baseball. Fingers' accomplishment was a pivotal moment in showcasing the importance of closers in securing wins for their teams.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

End of the Chicago North Shore Line Service

January 21st, 1963 62 years ago

The Chicago North Shore and Milwaukee Railroad ceased operations, marking the end of an era for interurban rail travel in the Midwest. This railroad, which connected Chicago to Milwaukee, had been in service for over 40 years and was known for its speed and efficiency. It provided an essential transport link for commuters and travelers in the region. The decision to terminate service was influenced by declining ridership and rising operational costs in an increasingly automobile-oriented society.

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Economics & Industry

Milwaukee Brewery Workers Walkout Begins

May 14th, 1953 71 years ago

Approximately 7,100 brewery workers in Milwaukee staged a walkout, initiating the 1953 Milwaukee brewery strike. The workers sought better wages, improved working conditions, and respect from management. This sudden action disrupted beer production in the region, highlighting the brewing industry's labor tensions. The strike involved multiple brewing companies and garnered significant media coverage.

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Natural Disasters

Peak Heat Wave of the Dust Bowl

July 24th, 1935 89 years ago

In July 1935, a severe heat wave struck Chicago and Milwaukee, with temperatures soaring to 109°F in Chicago and 104°F in Milwaukee. This extreme weather phenomenon was part of the broader Dust Bowl Era, impacting agriculture and daily life across the Midwest. The intense heat compounded the struggles of farmers affected by drought and soil erosion, leading to significant economic and social repercussions in the region.

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Crime & Law

Bombing Claims Lives of Milwaukee Police Officers

November 24th, 1917 107 years ago

In Milwaukee, a bomb explosion resulted in the deaths of nine police officers, marking one of the deadliest days in U.S. policing history. The incident occurred during a time when labor unrest was prevalent, particularly due to the ongoing war and related social tensions. The police were responding to a report of a suspicious package when the bomb detonated, leading to tragic consequences. The event shocked both the local community and the nation, highlighting the dangers faced by law enforcement at the time.

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Politics & Government

Theodore Roosevelt Survives Assassination Attempt

October 14th, 1912 112 years ago

Former president Theodore Roosevelt was shot by John Flammang Schrank while campaigning for the presidency in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Despite suffering a gunshot wound to the chest, Roosevelt remarkably proceeded to deliver a 90-minute speech to supporters. The bullet lodged in his chest, he insisted on addressing the crowd before receiving medical attention.

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Sports & Recreation

Milwaukee Mile Hosts Its Inaugural Race

September 11th, 1903 121 years ago

The first race at Milwaukee Mile, the oldest major speedway in the world, took place in West Allis, Wisconsin. This event marked the beginning of a significant racing tradition, showcasing the capabilities of early automobiles and the burgeoning interest in motorsports. The race attracted both competitors and spectators, highlighting the excitement of speed on the newly constructed track. With its rich history of motorsports, Milwaukee Mile has since become a cornerstone for racing enthusiasts.

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