Historical Events tagged with "submarine"

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.

Military & Warfare

Greek Submarine Captures Agios Stefanos Vessel

January 17th, 1943 82 years ago

The Greek submarine Papanikolis successfully captured the 200-ton sailing vessel Agios Stefanos during World War II. This operation was part of the Mediterranean naval campaign to disrupt Axis shipping routes. The crew of Papanikolis took over the Agios Stefanos, utilizing part of her crew to assist in the maneuver. The capture showcased the tactical effectiveness of Greek naval forces during this period.

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Military & Warfare

Fasson and Grazier's Brave Attempt in U-559

October 30th, 1942 82 years ago

Lt. Tony Fasson and Able Seaman Colin Grazier drowned while attempting to retrieve code books from the sinking German submarine U-559. The submarine was located in the Mediterranean Sea and was targeted by British forces during World War II. As U-559 sank, the two men jumped into the water to salvage vital intelligence that could turn the tide of the war. Unfortunately, their brave efforts led to their drowning, marking a significant moment in naval warfare.

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Military & Warfare

U-69 Sinks SS Caribou Off Newfoundland

October 14th, 1942 82 years ago

The German submarine U-69 torpedoed the Canadian passenger ferry SS Caribou near Port aux Basques, Newfoundland, in 1942. The attack resulted in the sinking of the ferry, leading to the loss of 137 lives that included both crew and passengers. The incident highlighted the vulnerabilities of North Atlantic shipping routes during World War II and the significant threat posed by German U-boats.

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Military & Warfare

End of the Second Happy Time for U-boats

July 19th, 1942 82 years ago

American naval tactics began to significantly disrupt German U-boat operations in the Atlantic, marking a turning point in the Battle of the Atlantic. The convoy system, which organized merchant ships for mutual protection, showcased its effectiveness against submarine attacks. As U-boats retreated to the central Atlantic, the balance of naval power began to shift, impacting shipping routes and wartime logistics.

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Military & Warfare

Japanese Submarine Attack on Fort Stevens

June 21st, 1942 82 years ago

A Japanese submarine surfaced near the Columbia River, targeting Fort Stevens with 17 artillery shells. The attack, one of the few on the U.S. mainland during World War II, occurred along the Oregon coast. Fortunately, no significant damage was done, though the attack raised concerns about the vulnerability of the U.S. mainland to enemy action.

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Military & Warfare

Japanese Submarines Shell Australian Cities

June 8th, 1942 82 years ago

On this date, the Imperial Japanese Navy submarines I-21 and I-24 shelled the coastal cities of Sydney and Newcastle in Australia. The attacks, which were part of Japan's broader strategy during World War II, marked the first time since 1788 that the Australian mainland faced direct enemy fire. Additionally, some civilians witnessed the gunfire from the waterfront, heightening fear and uncertainty in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Midget Submarine Attacks in Sydney Harbour

May 31st, 1942 82 years ago

Imperial Japanese Navy midget submarines launched a series of attacks on Sydney, Australia, targeting naval vessels and the local infrastructure. The operation aimed to disrupt the Australian war effort and demonstrate Japan's naval capabilities. On this night, three midget submarines penetrated Sydney Harbour, with one being scuttled after a confrontation with Australian naval forces. The audacity of the attack shocked the Australian public and raised concerns about the security of the Australian coastline.

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Military & Warfare

HMS Barham Sunk by German Torpedo

November 25th, 1941 83 years ago

The British battleship HMS Barham was sunk during World War II after being hit by a torpedo from the German U-boat U-331 in the Mediterranean Sea. The attack occurred while Barham was part of a convoy supporting operations in North Africa. The explosion resulted in the loss of over 800 crewmen, marking a significant loss for the Royal Navy and demonstrating the dangers posed by submarine warfare in the region.

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Military & Warfare

German U-Boat Attacks USS Greer

September 4th, 1941 83 years ago

A German U-boat attacked the USS Greer, marking a pivotal moment in naval engagements during World War II. The USS Greer, a destroyer escort, was patrolling the Atlantic when it encountered the U-652. After being attacked, the Greer returned fire, damaging the submarine. This incident underscored the increasing tensions between the United States and Germany prior to the U.S. entering the war.

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