What Happened This Year 1796

Historical Events from This Year 1796

Military & Warfare

Napoleon's Victory at Lodi Bridge

May 10th, 1796 228 years ago

The Austrian forces suffered significant losses when Napoleon Bonaparte led his troops to victory at the Lodi Bridge over the Adda River in Italy. The battle showcased Napoleon's innovative tactics and decisive leadership, resulting in around 2,000 Austrian casualties and strengthening French control in Northern Italy. This engagement was pivotal in the context of the War of the First Coalition, where French forces sought to establish dominance in the region.

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Health & Medicine

First Smallpox Inoculation by Edward Jenner

May 14th, 1796 228 years ago

Edward Jenner administered the first smallpox inoculation to James Phipps, an eight-year-old boy, using material taken from a cowpox lesion. This groundbreaking procedure, conducted in Berkeley, England, laid the foundation for the development of vaccines, showcasing an innovative approach to combating infectious diseases.

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Military & Warfare

Napoleon Crosses Mincio River at Borghetto

May 30th, 1796 228 years ago

Napoleon Bonaparte executed a remarkable maneuver at the Battle of Borghetto, successfully crossing the Mincio River against the Austrian army. This decisive move compelled the Austrians to abandon Lombardy and retreat toward the Tyrol, ultimately leaving Mantua as their only remaining stronghold in Northern Italy. The battle showcased Napoleon's tactical brilliance and shifted the momentum in favor of the French forces during the War of the First Coalition.

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Politics & Government

Tennessee Joins the United States as the 16th State

June 1st, 1796 228 years ago

Tennessee was officially admitted as the 16th state of the United States, marking a significant expansion of the nation. The act occurred after years of growth and settlement in the region by European Americans, spurred by economic opportunities and land availability. Nashville was established as the capital, symbolizing the transition from frontier territory to a state within the federal structure. This admission reflected both a population increase and the desire for more local governance among the settlers.

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Politics & Government

The U.S. Gains Control of Detroit

July 11th, 1796 228 years ago

The U.S. took control of Detroit from Great Britain following the terms outlined in the Jay Treaty. This transfer marked a significant moment in early American history, reflecting the ongoing efforts to solidify U.S. sovereignty and territorial rights following the Revolutionary War. Governor Isaac P. Shelby represented the U.S. during the transfer, which occurred at Fort Detroit, and underscored the complicated relationship between the U.S. and Britain, highlighting the challenges of post-war diplomacy and the management of territories.

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Exploration & Discovery

Naming of Cleveland after Gen. Moses Cleaveland

July 22nd, 1796 228 years ago

Surveyors from the Connecticut Land Company, led by Gen. Moses Cleaveland, named a newly plotted area in Ohio 'Cleveland'. The site was selected for its strategic location at the mouth of the Cuyahoga River, which made it advantageous for trade and transportation. Cleaveland's surveying party laid out the city's grid, marking a significant step in the development of the American Northwest Territory. This decision would influence the town's future growth and importance.

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Military & Warfare

Napoleon's Victory at the Battle of Lonato

August 4th, 1796 228 years ago

In a significant military engagement during the French Revolutionary Wars, General Napoleon Bonaparte led the French Army of Italy to a decisive victory against Austrian forces at Lonato. This battle was part of the overall Italian campaign and illustrated Napoleon's strategic prowess. The French forces outmaneuvered their opponents, achieving an important tactical advantage. The victory at Lonato not only solidified Napoleon's reputation as a formidable military leader but also contributed to the ongoing successes of the French in Italy.

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Military & Warfare

French Victory at the Battle of Castiglione

August 5th, 1796 228 years ago

The Battle of Castiglione was a significant engagement in the French Revolutionary Wars, where French forces commanded by General Napoléon Bonaparte faced the Austrian army. The battle took place near the town of Castiglione delle Stiviere in Italy. Utilizing superior tactics and rapid maneuvering, the French forces achieved a decisive victory, which helped bolster their control in northern Italy. The battle was marked by the innovative use of artillery and infantry strategies by the French, showcasing Bonaparte's military prowess and ambition.

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Military & Warfare

French Victory at Bassano Del Grappa

September 8th, 1796 228 years ago

French forces achieved a significant victory against Austrian troops at Bassano del Grappa during the French Revolutionary Wars. Under the command of General Jean-Antoine Sérurier, the French military demonstrated effective tactics and coordination against a numerically superior Austrian army led by Johann Beaulieu. The battle marked a turning point in the campaign in Northern Italy, showcasing the growing effectiveness of the French Revolutionary forces.

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