What Happened This Year 1787

Historical Events from This Year 1787

Cultural Traditions

Transfer of the Black Nazarene to Quiapo Church

January 9th, 1787 238 years ago

The Black Nazarene, a revered religious image, was transferred to its current shrine at Quiapo Church, marking a significant event for Catholic devotees in Manila. This solemn transfer is celebrated annually through the Traslación, which attracts millions of participants who escort the image through the streets of Manila in a display of faith and devotion.

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Space Exploration

William Herschel Discovers Uranus Moons

January 11th, 1787 238 years ago

William Herschel made a significant astronomical discovery by observing two new moons of Uranus, named Titania and Oberon. Utilizing his powerful telescope, Herschel identified these celestial bodies, expanding the known limits of the solar system at the time. This discovery added complexity to our understanding of Uranus and advanced the field of observational astronomy. The moons are now known to be the largest of Uranus's 27 known satellites.

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Politics & Government

Confrontation at Springfield Armory

January 25th, 1787 238 years ago

A confrontation erupted outside the Springfield Armory between Massachusetts state militia and armed rebels led by Daniel Shays. The rebels were protesting against economic injustices, including high taxes and foreclosures, which had heavily burdened rural communities. The clash resulted in the death of four rebels and injuries to twenty others. The government aimed to suppress the uprising to maintain order and protect property rights amidst growing discontent.

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Politics & Government

General Benjamin Lincoln Defeats Shays' Rebellion

February 3rd, 1787 238 years ago

In Petersham, Massachusetts, a militia led by General Benjamin Lincoln successfully defeated the rebel forces that were part of Shays' Rebellion. This armed uprising involved farmers protesting against economic inequality and aggressive tax policies. The decisive clash marked a turning point in the struggle against government enforcement, showcasing the government's willingness to maintain order and authority. The rebellion had escalated the previous year but was quickly subdued by Lincoln's disciplined forces, leading to notable arrests.

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Politics & Government

U.S. Constitutional Convention Convenes in Philadelphia

May 25th, 1787 237 years ago

The United States Constitutional Convention formally began in Philadelphia after an 11-day delay as delegates from seven states managed to secure a quorum. This meeting, held at the Pennsylvania State House, aimed to address the weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation. Key figures such as George Washington and James Madison were present, signaling a commitment to reform the governmental structure. The convention set the stage for reshaping the nation’s legal framework and discussions on representation, state power, and federal authority took center stage.

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Politics & Government

Oliver Ellsworth Proposes 'United States' Name

June 20th, 1787 237 years ago

Oliver Ellsworth proposed naming the new government the 'United States' during the Federal Convention held in Philadelphia. This suggestion was pivotal in defining the country's identity as it established a unified front among the previously separate states. The convention took place to address the inadequacies of the Articles of Confederation, and this naming decision reflected a significant shift towards a stronger national government.

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Politics & Government

Northwest Ordinance Establishes Governing Rules

July 13th, 1787 237 years ago

The Northwest Ordinance was enacted by the Congress of the Confederation to establish governance in the Northwest Territory. This important legislation outlined the procedure for creating new states and addressed the contentious issue of slavery by limiting its expansion in the new territories. The ordinance set the groundwork for westward expansion and laid the foundation for future states. Promoting education and civil liberties, it was a crucial step in shaping American democracy and governance.

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Politics & Government

Delivery of the Constitution Proof Sheets

August 6th, 1787 237 years ago

Sixty proof sheets of the Constitution were delivered to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. These proof sheets represented the final draft of the Constitution, reflecting months of deliberation and compromise among the delegates. The delivery marked a critical point in the shaping of the United States' governance framework and showcased the collaborative effort to achieve a functioning government under a new Constitution.

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Politics & Government

The Constitution is Signed in Philadelphia

September 17th, 1787 237 years ago

The United States Constitution was signed at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, marking the conclusion of the Constitutional Convention. Delegates from the thirteen original states gathered to debate and draft a framework for a new government that would replace the Articles of Confederation. The signing brought together key figures such as George Washington, who presided over the convention, and Benjamin Franklin. The event symbolized a significant shift toward a more centralized government to address the weaknesses in the previous governance system, and it set the stage for the future of American democracy.

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