Historical Events tagged with "sikh"

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.

Crime & Law

Sikh Temple Shooting in Oak Creek

August 5th, 2012 12 years ago

On August 5, 2012, a mass shooting occurred at the Sikh temple in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, resulting in the deaths of six individuals. The gunman, Wade Michael Page, entered the temple and opened fire during a morning service. Page was an ex-soldier and a known white supremacist. After being confronted by police, he shot himself, adding to the tragedy. The event shocked the local community and raised awareness about violence against religious minorities.

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Crime & Law

Bombings During Hindu Celebration in Rudrapur

October 17th, 1991 33 years ago

During a Ramlila celebration in Rudrapur, Uttarakhand, two bombs exploded, resulting in the tragic death of 41 people. The attack was attributed to Sikh separatists. The incident highlighted the sectarian tensions that were prevalent in India at the time, particularly during the violent period associated with the demand for an independent Sikh state, Khalistan. It served as a reminder of the challenges faced by communities during religious festivities.

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Politics & Government

Anti-Sikh Riots Following Indira Gandhi's Assassination

November 1st, 1984 40 years ago

Following the assassination of Indira Gandhi by two Sikh bodyguards, widespread anti-Sikh riots broke out across India. The unrest was fueled by anger and resentment towards the Sikh community, leading to violent clashes and significant loss of life. Thousands of Sikhs were targeted, their homes and businesses attacked, resulting in a humanitarian crisis that raised questions about law enforcement and governmental responsibilities.

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Politics & Government

Indira Gandhi Assassinated, Riots Erupt Nationwide

October 31st, 1984 40 years ago

Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards, Satwant Singh and Beant Singh, in New Delhi. Following her death, widespread riots occurred across the nation, particularly targeting the Sikh community, leading to the deaths of around 3,000 Sikhs. The violence was fueled by long-standing tensions between the Sikh community and the Indian government, exacerbated by the earlier Operation Blue Star, which aimed to eliminate Sikh militancy in the Golden Temple. The tragic events unfolded quickly, resulting in significant loss of life and property.

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Military & Warfare

Indian Military Offensive at Golden Temple

June 3rd, 1984 40 years ago

Operation Blue Star was a military operation initiated by the Indian government to remove Sikh militants from the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar. This operation took place in June, led by Major General Kuldip Singh Brar. The Indian Army aimed to eliminate the armed resistance led by insurgent leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. As the operation unfolded, it resulted in significant casualties, with estimates suggesting over 5,000 individuals, predominantly civilians, were affected.

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Military & Warfare

Brave Last Stand of Sikh Soldiers at Saragarhi

September 12th, 1897 127 years ago

The Battle of Saragarhi saw 21 Sikh soldiers hold their fort against a massive force of approximately 10,000 Pashtun tribesmen. Stationed at the Saragarhi post in the North-West Frontier Province, these soldiers faced overwhelming odds. Despite being heavily outnumbered, they fought valiantly and communicated their defiance through messages until the end. Ultimately, the Sikh soldiers exemplified courage, resulting in significant casualties for the attacking tribesmen, highlighting the fierce resistance they demonstrated in the face of certain death.

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Politics & Government

Annexation of Punjab by the United Kingdom

March 29th, 1849 175 years ago

The United Kingdom officially annexed Punjab after defeating the Sikh Empire following the Second Anglo-Sikh War. The annexation was formalized in the Treaty of Lahore, which ended hostilities and imposed significant territorial and financial demands on the Sikhs. The annexation marked a crucial expansion of British control in India, altering the region's political landscape.

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Military & Warfare

Sikh Defenders Surrender After Nine-Month Siege

January 22nd, 1849 176 years ago

The Siege of Multan, which lasted nine months, concluded with the surrender of the last Sikh defenders to British forces. This event marked a significant point in the Second Anglo-Sikh War, highlighting the fierce resistance by the Sikh army led by General Diyal Singh and the strategic military dominance exhibited by the British under Lieutenant-General Sir Charles Napier. The capture of Multan was crucial for the British as it solidified their control over Punjab.

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Military & Warfare

British Victory at Sobraon Ends Anglo-Sikh War

February 10th, 1846 179 years ago

The Battle of Sobraon marked the final confrontation of the First Anglo-Sikh War. It occurred at the banks of the Sutlej River, where British forces led by Sir Henry Hardinge engaged the Sikh army. Faced with overwhelming British artillery and tactics, the Sikhs, commanded by Lal Singh and Tej Singh, were decisively defeated, leading to significant territorial losses for the Sikhs and the eventual annexation of Punjab by the British East India Company. The battle resulted in heavy casualties on both sides, establishing British dominance in the region.

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