Historical Events tagged with "slavery"

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

Settlers' Rights to Enslave Natives Affirmed

May 29th, 1733 291 years ago

In Quebec City, settlers received judicial confirmation of their rights to enslave Indigenous peoples in New France. This decision followed ongoing tension and escalated skirmishes between settlers and Native communities. The ruling underscored the legal framework supporting colonial power dynamics over Indigenous populations, providing a precedent that prioritized settler interests. The implications of this ruling contributed to the marginalization of Native societies.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Execution of Zumbi dos Palmares

November 20th, 1695 329 years ago

Zumbi dos Palmares, the last leader of Quilombo dos Palmares, was executed by the forces of bandeirante Domingos Jorge Velho. His death marked a significant moment in the struggle against slavery in Brazil, as he was a symbol of resistance for enslaved Africans. The execution occurred following a fierce conflict between the Brazilian settlers and the maroon community that Zumbi led, which was located in the northeastern region of Brazil, particularly in present-day Alagoas.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Dandara's Capture and Final Defiance

February 6th, 1694 331 years ago

Dandara, the courageous leader of the runaway slaves at Quilombo dos Palmares, was captured by colonial forces. Faced with the prospect of being returned to a life of bondage, she chose to take her own life rather than live in slavery again. Her act marked a significant moment in the resistance against oppression, symbolizing the fight for freedom among enslaved people in Brazil.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Abolition of Slavery in Rhode Island

May 18th, 1652 372 years ago

Rhode Island enacted a law to abolish slavery, but enforcement was lax. The law permitted the gradual emancipation of enslaved individuals, allowing their owners to keep slaves until they reached 21 years of age. This legal framework was significant in shaping future discussions regarding slavery in the region.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Colonization of Guadeloupe by France

June 28th, 1635 389 years ago

Guadeloupe was claimed as a French colony after its exploration by a fleet sent by the French West India Company. Led by the French admiral Charles de la Roche, this expedition aimed to establish a foothold in the Caribbean amidst growing European competition for territory. The island’s lush resources and strategic position made it an attractive location for colonization, which was sanctioned by the French crown seeking to expand its colonial influence in the New World. The settlement marked the beginning of French presence in the Caribbean.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Barbary Raid on Irish Village of Baltimore

June 20th, 1631 393 years ago

In June 1631, the village of Baltimore in Ireland was raided by Barbary pirates, capturing around 100 inhabitants to sell into slavery. The attackers swiftly overpowered the small community, leading to a significant loss of life and liberty. The raid exemplifies the threats faced by coastal settlements during this era, as European nations dealt with the rising power of pirate and privateering activities along the Mediterranean and beyond. The swift and brutal nature of this assault left a lasting impact on the local populace.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

English Attack on Portuguese Carrack Cinco Chagas

June 23rd, 1594 430 years ago

The Portuguese carrack Cinco Chagas was attacked by English ships while transporting slaves and treasures from Africa to Europe. This conflict took place near the Azores, leading to significant loss of life. Of the over 700 individuals aboard the ship, only 13 survived the assault, marking a devastating event for those involved.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Egica Accuses Jews of Aiding Muslims

November 9th, 694 1330 years ago

King Egica of the Visigoths accused the Jewish community of collaborating with Muslim invaders, leading to their sentencing to slavery during the Seventeenth Council of Toledo. This council aimed to address the increasing threat from Islam and unify Christian resistance, showcasing rising suspicion toward minority communities amidst political strife.

Continue Reading