Historical Events tagged with "missouri"

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.

Natural Disasters

Major Earthquake Strikes Charleston, Missouri

October 31st, 1895 129 years ago

A powerful earthquake struck near Charleston, Missouri, causing substantial damage to buildings and infrastructure. The quake registered as the strongest seismic event in the Midwestern United States since 1812. Reports indicate that at least two fatalities occurred as a result of the tremors, which were felt across a wide area. Residents experienced panic and chaos as they sought safety amidst the aftershocks, which were persistent following the initial quake.

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Science & Technology

Nikola Tesla's First Public Radio Demonstration

March 1st, 1893 132 years ago

Nikola Tesla amazed onlookers in St. Louis, Missouri, during a public demonstration of his radio technology. Presenting at the World’s Fair, he showcased wireless transmission, captivating the audience with the potential of radio waves. With demonstration equipment, Tesla transmitted signals over a distance, revealing the groundbreaking possibilities of communication technology.

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Technology & Innovation

Almon Strowger Patents the Strowger Switch

March 10th, 1891 134 years ago

Almon Strowger patented the Strowger switch, a groundbreaking device that automated telephone circuit switching. This innovation addressed the inefficiencies of manual switchboards, transforming how telephone calls were connected. Strowger, an undertaker, developed the idea after experiencing frustration with misdirected calls leading to missed business opportunities. The patent marked a significant shift in telecommunications, paving the way for automated systems that enhanced communication.

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Science & Technology

William Seward Burroughs patents adding machine

August 21st, 1888 136 years ago

William Seward Burroughs received a patent for the first successful adding machine in the United States, marking a significant advancement in the field of calculation technology. The machine was designed to streamline the process of addition, making it easier for businesses and individuals to perform arithmetic operations with increased speed and accuracy. Burroughs, an inventor and businessman, aimed to improve the efficiency of financial calculations, providing a useful tool for accounting and commerce.

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Crime & Law

Robert Ford Assassinated Jesse James

April 3rd, 1882 143 years ago

In St. Joseph, Missouri, Robert Ford shot Jesse James, a notorious outlaw. Ford purportedly aimed to collect the bounty on James and sought notoriety. At the time, James was in the process of adjusting a picture on the wall of his home when Ford shot him in the back.

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Crime & Law

Wild Bill Hickok and Davis Tutt's Famous Duel

July 21st, 1865 159 years ago

Wild Bill Hickok confronts Davis Tutt in a duel in Springfield, Missouri. The showdown occurs over a dispute about a gambling debt and personal honor. Both men draw their revolvers in the town square, and Hickok successfully shoots Tutt, solidifying his reputation as a gunslinger.

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Military & Warfare

Union Garrison in Glasgow Surrenders

October 15th, 1864 160 years ago

On October 15, 1864, Confederate forces successfully captured the Union garrison at Glasgow, Missouri. The event unfolded when Confederate General Joseph O. Shelby led his troops in a surprise attack against the Union-held position. The garrison, defended by Union soldiers, was forced to surrender without significant resistance. This marked a strategic victory for Confederate forces in the region, emphasizing the ongoing military tensions between the Union and Confederacy in the western theater of the American Civil War.

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Military & Warfare

Decisive Encounter at Second Battle of Springfield

January 8th, 1863 162 years ago

The Second Battle of Springfield was a significant confrontation during the American Civil War, taking place in January at Springfield, Missouri. It involved the Union forces under the command of Brigadier General John McNeil and Confederate troops led by General William L. Cabell. The Union army sought to maintain control over southwestern Missouri, which had strategic importance. The battle saw fierce fighting as McNeil aimed to thwart Cabell's offensive maneuvers, ultimately leading to a decisive Union victory, which reinforced their hold on the region.

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Military & Warfare

Union Victory Against Confederate Forces

September 19th, 1862 162 years ago

Union troops under the command of William Rosecrans defeated Confederate forces led by Sterling Price in a notable confrontation during the American Civil War. The battle took place in Missouri and was significant for the Union's aim to secure control over the state. Rosecrans's tactical maneuvering and ability to coordinate his forces effectively led to a decisive victory against Price's army, bolstering Union morale and strategy in the region.

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