Historical Events tagged with "potomac"

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

Mid-Air Collision Over Potomac River

January 29th, 2025 0 years ago

American Eagle Flight 5342 collided with a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk, resulting in a crash into the Potomac River. All 67 individuals on both aircraft perished in the incident. The accident raised significant concerns regarding mid-air safety protocols and oversight of airspace integration between civilian and military aviation.

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Cultural Traditions

First Lady Taft Planting Cherry Trees

March 27th, 1912 112 years ago

First Lady Helen Taft and Viscountess Chinda planted two Yoshino cherry trees along the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. This ceremonial act marked the beginning of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The event showcased the friendship between the United States and Japan, symbolized through the gift of cherry trees sent to Washington by the people of Tokyo.

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Military & Warfare

Army of Northern Virginia Crosses Potomac River

September 5th, 1862 162 years ago

Under the command of General Robert E. Lee, the Army of Northern Virginia crossed the Potomac River at White's Ford during the Maryland Campaign. This strategic maneuver marked a vital moment in the Confederate invasion of the North, aiming to gain a foothold in Maryland and potentially influence the upcoming midterm elections. The crossing was completed successfully, allowing Lee's forces to advance into Union territory.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Gun Explosion on USS Princeton Pleasure Cruise

February 28th, 1844 181 years ago

A tragic explosion occurred aboard the steam warship USS Princeton during a governmental pleasure cruise on the Potomac River, resulting in the deaths of six individuals, including Secretary of State Abel Upshur. President John Tyler was on board at the time of the explosion but escaped injury. The innovative ship had previously been celebrated for its technical advancements.

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