Historical Events tagged with "navy"

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

Formation of the People's Liberation Army Navy

April 23rd, 1949 75 years ago

The People's Liberation Army Navy was officially established as a branch of the Chinese military, solidifying the People's Republic of China's naval capabilities. This formation was a strategic move during the concluding phases of the Chinese Civil War, reflecting the Communist Party's intention to build a modern navy that could secure maritime interests. The event highlighted the military ambitions of the new government under Chairman Mao Zedong as they aimed to assert control over China's waters and establish a presence in East Asia.

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Military & Warfare

Royal New Zealand Navy's Only Recorded Mutiny

April 1st, 1947 77 years ago

A mutiny took place aboard HMNZS Tasman, led by sailors protesting against conditions and treatment. The event, which emerged from tensions fostered by strict regulations and dissatisfaction among crew members, highlighted issues within the Royal New Zealand Navy. It culminated in a refusal to follow orders, prompting an inquiry and significant media attention. The mutiny reflects underlying discontent and served to change naval policies in New Zealand.

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Crime & Law

Marines Quell Alcatraz Riot, Five Killed

May 4th, 1946 78 years ago

A two-day riot at Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary was stopped by U.S. Marines from the nearby Treasure Island Naval Base. The unrest broke out on May 2, 1946, in response to growing tensions among inmates following accusations of mistreatment and poor conditions. The riot escalated, leading to hostage situations and violence, ultimately resulting in five deaths among both inmates and guards. Marines were deployed to restore order, marking a rare federal military intervention in a prison uprising. The incident captured national attention and highlighted issues within the prison system.

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Military & Warfare

Operation Deadlight concludes with U-boat scuttling

February 12th, 1946 79 years ago

Operation Deadlight concluded with the scuttling of 121 out of 154 captured German U-boats. This operation took place in the waters off the coast of Scotland and was executed by the Royal Navy. The decision to scuttle the U-boats was made to prevent them from being used again and to eliminate the threat they posed. The U-boats had been captured following Germany's surrender, marking the end of a significant chapter in naval warfare.

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Military & Warfare

USS Indianapolis Delivers Atomic Bomb Parts

July 16th, 1945 79 years ago

The heavy cruiser USS Indianapolis departed from San Francisco carrying crucial components for the atomic bomb code-named 'Little Boy.' This ship's mission was vital to the Manhattan Project, as it delivered these parts to Tinian Island in the Pacific. The components were assembled into the bomb that would later be unleashed on Hiroshima, demonstrating a significant milestone in warfare and technological advancement during World War II.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Halifax Riot Involves Civilians and Servicemen

May 8th, 1945 79 years ago

Thousands of civilians and servicemen in Halifax went on a rampage, causing significant unrest in the city during a post-war celebration. Tensions flared due to a mix of emotions surrounding the end of World War II, local grievances, and the behavior of some sailors on shore leave. The riot escalated into widespread chaos, with property damage and confrontations reported.

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Military & Warfare

Yamato Sunk by U.S. Navy Aircraft

April 7th, 1945 79 years ago

The battleship Yamato, the largest ever constructed, was sunk by U.S. Navy aircraft during Operation Ten-Go. This operation was part of Japan's final efforts to strike against allied naval forces in the closing stages of World War II. Despite its size and formidable armament, Yamato was targeted effectively by American aircraft, leading to its sinking in the waters near Okinawa.

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Military & Warfare

USS Franklin Hit by Dive Bomber Off Japan

March 19th, 1945 79 years ago

The aircraft carrier USS Franklin was heavily damaged by a Japanese dive bomber during World War II. This incident resulted in the loss of 724 crew members. The ship, despite its severe damage, managed to return to the United States under its own power. The attack highlighted the vulnerabilities of aircraft carriers even while on the offense.

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Military & Warfare

Kamikaze Attack on U.S. Fleet at Ulithi Atoll

March 11th, 1945 80 years ago

The Imperial Japanese Navy initiated a significant kamikaze operation, known as Operation Tan No. 2, targeting the U.S. Pacific Fleet stationed at Ulithi Atoll. This large-scale assault aimed to inflict maximum damage on American naval forces as they prepared for the invasion of Japan. With Japan's situation deteriorating in the Pacific, the use of suicide pilots reflected their desperate strategy to turn the tide of the war. The attack involved several aircraft and took place over a critical period in the Pacific theater.

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