Historical Events tagged with "politics"

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.

Politics & Government

Zola's J'accuse…! Challenges Dreyfus Case

January 13th, 1898 127 years ago

Émile Zola published an open letter titled 'J'accuse…!' in the newspaper L'Aurore, defending Alfred Dreyfus, a Jewish officer wrongfully convicted of treason. Through passionate rhetoric, Zola denounced the French military's cover-up and anti-Semitism surrounding the case. This letter, addressed to the President, stirred public debate and highlighted societal divisions, drawing supporters from various factions advocating for justice.

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Politics & Government

Michele Angiolillo Kills Antonio Cánovas

August 8th, 1897 127 years ago

Michele Angiolillo, an Italian anarchist, assassinated Spanish Prime Minister Antonio Cánovas del Castillo in a violent act that reflected the growing tensions between anarchist movements and governmental authorities in late 19th-century Europe. The assassination took place in Guipúzkoa, Spain, where Angiolillo approached Cánovas and shot him multiple times, reportedly to protest against the harsh repression of anarchists in Spain. This act sparked widespread debates about political violence and the role of anarchism in societal change.

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Politics & Government

Treaty for Hawaii's Annexation Signed

June 16th, 1897 128 years ago

A treaty was signed to annex the Republic of Hawaii to the United States, initiated by the expansionist desires of U.S. leaders and supported by many economic interests. The signing marked a critical point in Hawaii's transition from an independent republic to U.S. territory. Despite the signing, the Republic of Hawaii remained in existence for an additional year before officially dissolving in 1898.

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Politics & Government

Bryan's Impassioned Cross of Gold Speech

July 9th, 1896 128 years ago

William Jennings Bryan delivered his famous Cross of Gold speech during the 1896 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, advocating for bimetallism as a solution to the economic struggles facing the nation. With a passionate plea for the rights of the 'common man,' Bryan argued that the free coinage of silver would benefit farmers and laborers. His address captivated the audience, leading to a dramatic shift in the convention's momentum. The speech became emblematic of the populist movement and highlighted the economic disparities of the era.

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Politics & Government

Formation of the Republic of Formosa

May 25th, 1895 130 years ago

The Republic of Formosa was established with Tang Jingsong as its president following the upheaval from the First Sino-Japanese War. The movement emerged as a response to Japanese control of Taiwan after China’s defeat and sought to establish a local governance authority. Tang Jingsong, a key figure in this political upheaval, played a crucial role in rallying supporters and structuring the new government, which was short-lived due to the swift military response from Japan. The capital was established in Tainan, symbolizing a local resistance against colonial rule.

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Crime & Law

Dreyfus convicted of treason and imprisoned

January 5th, 1895 130 years ago

Alfred Dreyfus, a Jewish French army officer, was wrongfully convicted of treason and sentenced to life imprisonment on Devil's Island. This unjust verdict stemmed from antisemitic sentiments and flawed military evidence. Dreyfus's case sparked national protests and debates over civil rights in France, highlighting issues of injustice and discrimination in the army.

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Politics & Government

Nicholas II Ascends as Tsar of Russia

November 1st, 1894 130 years ago

Upon the death of his father, Alexander III, Nicholas II became the new Tsar of Russia. The transition marked the beginning of a new era for the imperial family and the Russian Empire, as Nicholas inherited not just the throne but also the weight of expectations in a rapidly changing world. His ascension occurred at a time when Russia faced internal strife, economic challenges, and the pressing need for modernization, which would shape his reign and legacy profoundly.

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Politics & Government

Proclamation of the Republic of Hawaii

July 4th, 1894 130 years ago

Sanford B. Dole proclaimed the Republic of Hawaii.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of Marie François Sadi Carnot

June 24th, 1894 131 years ago

Marie François Sadi Carnot, the President of France, was assassinated in Lyon by an Italian anarchist named Sante Geronimo Caserio. During a public event, Carnot was attacked with a dagger by Caserio, which ultimately led to his death. The assassination occurred shortly after a prestigious exposition was held in the city, where Carnot was in attendance. Caserio justified his actions as a political statement against the French government, which he viewed as oppressive. This moment shocked the nation and sparked discussions on political violence and anarchism.

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