Historical Events tagged with "ohio"

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.

Accidents & Tragedies

Ashtabula River Railroad Disaster Overview

December 29th, 1876 148 years ago

A railroad bridge over the Ashtabula River collapsed under the weight of a passenger train, resulting in significant loss of life. The incident occurred in Ashtabula, Ohio, during a winter evening. The train was carrying approximately 160 passengers when the bridge failed, sending several cars plunging into the icy waters below. Rescue efforts began immediately, but the frigid conditions hampered recovery. In total, 92 people were confirmed dead, and around 64 were injured, making it one of the deadliest train accidents of its time.

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Economics & Industry

John D. Rockefeller Forms Standard Oil Company

January 10th, 1870 155 years ago

John D. Rockefeller collaborated with other partners to incorporate Standard Oil in Cleveland, Ohio, marking the beginning of a significant enterprise in the oil industry. This strategic move aimed to streamline and control production and distribution of oil, helping to stabilize and drive down prices. Rockefeller’s vision for an integrated oil company would shape the industry's future, allowing for unprecedented growth and consolidation.

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Military & Warfare

John Hunt Morgan's Daring Prison Escape

November 27th, 1863 161 years ago

Confederate cavalry leader John Hunt Morgan, known for his bold raids during the American Civil War, orchestrated a remarkable escape from the Ohio Penitentiary. Morgan and several of his men utilized tunneling techniques to break free from the prison and successfully made their way back to the South. Their escape was a significant endeavor that showcased their resourcefulness and highlighted the vulnerabilities within Union prisons.

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Military & Warfare

Morgan's Raid Concludes with Capture

July 26th, 1863 161 years ago

In Salineville, Ohio, Confederate cavalry leader John Hunt Morgan and 360 of his men were captured by Union forces, marking the end of a significant raid into the North. Morgan's Raid had spanned several states, disrupting Union supply lines and boosting Confederate morale. The capture occurred during Morgan's retreat after a harrowing journey, culminating in running battles with pursuing Union troops.

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Military & Warfare

Morgan's Raid Thwarted at Buffington Island

July 19th, 1863 161 years ago

Confederate General John Hunt Morgan's raid into the North faced a significant setback at Buffington Island in Ohio when a large number of his cavalrymen were captured while attempting to cross the Ohio River. This confrontation marked a critical moment in the raid, significantly diminishing Morgan's forces and altering the course of his campaign.

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Education & Academia

Sigma Chi Fraternity Established in North America

June 28th, 1855 169 years ago

Sigma Chi fraternity was founded at Miami University in Ohio by seven college students. The founders aimed to create a brotherhood based on principles of friendship, justice, and learning. This fraternity grew rapidly and became one of the largest and most influential organizations in the North American Greek system, emphasizing moral integrity and community service.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Sojourner Truth's Powerful Speech in Akron

May 29th, 1851 173 years ago

Sojourner Truth delivered her iconic "Ain't I a Woman?" speech at the Woman's Rights Convention in Akron, Ohio. This speech emphasized the intersection of gender and race, highlighting the struggles faced by black women. With passionate rhetoric, she argued for women's rights and equality, challenging prevailing notions of femininity and vulnerability. Truth's words resonated strongly with the audience, amplifying the voices of women, especially African American women, during a pivotal time for the women's rights movement.

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Politics & Government

Frostbitten Convention Votes for Michigan Statehood

December 14th, 1836 188 years ago

The 'Frostbitten Convention' resulted in a critical vote to accept congressional terms for Michigan's admission as a state. Held during a bitterly cold winter in a makeshift location near Detroit, this gathering was marked by its challenging conditions, yet it ultimately united delegates to bring a resolution to the disputed Toledo War. The decision paved the way for Michigan to achieve statehood, addressing long-standing territorial disputes.

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Religion & Philosophy

Formation of the Original Quorum of Twelve Apostles

February 14th, 1835 190 years ago

In Kirtland, Ohio, the original Quorum of the Twelve Apostles was formally organized, consisting of twelve leaders chosen to guide and support the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This pivotal moment solidified the church's leadership structure, ensuring expansion and missionary work. The apostles were ordained by Joseph Smith, the church founder, and provided spiritual governance and direction to the emerging membership.

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