Historical Events tagged with "portsmouth"

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

Dominica's Most Destructive Earthquake

November 21st, 2004 20 years ago

A powerful earthquake struck Dominica, causing significant devastation and loss of life, particularly affecting the town of Portsmouth. The northern half of the island sustained the majority of the damage, with reports indicating that the quake also impacted neighboring Guadeloupe, where one individual lost their life. The earthquake's effects were felt widely, leading to an urgent response for aid and recovery efforts across the region.

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Military & Warfare

USS Sailfish Recommissioned from USS Squalus

May 15th, 1940 84 years ago

The USS Sailfish was recommissioned after being salvaged from a tragic sinking incident as the USS Squalus. The submarine was officially recommissioned on May 15, 1940, at the Portsmouth Navy Yard in New Hampshire. The Squalus had sunk during a test dive in 1939, resulting in a significant rescue operation. Following extensive repairs and modifications, the USS Sailfish embarked on a new chapter, transitioning from tragedy to service in the Atlantic Fleet.

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Military & Warfare

Launch of HMS Dreadnought, a naval innovation

February 10th, 1906 119 years ago

HMS Dreadnought was launched at Portsmouth, revolutionizing naval warfare with its all-big-gun armament and steam turbine propulsion. The battleship was intended to enhance Britain's naval superiority amid rising global tensions. The launch saw a large crowd witness a vessel that would become the benchmark for future warships, setting new standards in battleship design.

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Politics & Government

Treaty of Portsmouth Ends Russo-Japanese War

September 5th, 1905 119 years ago

The Treaty of Portsmouth formally concluded the Russo-Japanese War, a conflict primarily over imperial ambitions in Korea and Manchuria. Negotiated in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, this treaty was significantly mediated by U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt, who sought to establish the United States as a major diplomatic power. The negotiations took place over several months and were marked by intense discussion. The treaty resulted in significant territorial gains for Japan and further shifts the balance of power in East Asia. Roosevelt's success in brokering the peace earned him a Nobel Prize for Peace in 1906.

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Politics & Government

Peace Negotiations in Portsmouth Begin

August 10th, 1905 119 years ago

Negotiations for peace between Russia and Japan commenced in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, aimed at resolving the conflict following the Russo-Japanese War. U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt mediated discussions to help both nations reach an agreement, highlighting his role in global diplomacy. The watchful eyes of the world focused on this pivotal moment, as both sides grappled with the costs of the war and the possibility of a negotiated peace.

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Sports & Recreation

Fratton Park Opens as a Football Ground

August 15th, 1899 125 years ago

Fratton Park, the home ground of Portsmouth FC, was officially opened in 1899, marking a significant development in football infrastructure in England. The inaugural match was played against a local team, showcasing the stadium's capacity and facilities. This event set the stage for Portsmouth FC's future in the football league, solidifying the stadium's importance to the local community and its enduring legacy in the sport.

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Exploration & Discovery

HMS Challenger Sets Sail for Ocean Exploration

December 21st, 1872 152 years ago

HMS Challenger departed Portsmouth under Captain George Nares, embarking on a groundbreaking scientific voyage. The expedition aimed to explore the depths of the ocean and gather data on marine life, geology, and oceanic currents. With a crew of scientists onboard, the mission was significant for understanding the world's oceans.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of George Villiers by John Felton

August 23rd, 1628 396 years ago

George Villiers, the first Duke of Buckingham, was assassinated in Portsmouth by John Felton, a disgruntled soldier. Felton held Villiers responsible for the failures in military campaigns and government corruption, leading to his attack. The assassination took place inside a boarding house where Villiers was staying, shocking the court and the nations both in England and abroad.

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Military & Warfare

The Sinking of the Mary Rose Warship

July 19th, 1545 479 years ago

The Tudor warship Mary Rose sank during battle against the French fleet near Portsmouth. As part of the English fleet, Mary Rose was engaged in the struggle for naval supremacy. The vessel capsized quickly, leading to the loss of many crew members. It remained on the seabed for centuries before being discovered and salvaged in 1982, marking a significant moment in maritime archaeology.

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