What Happened This Year 1835

Historical Events from This Year 1835

Transportation & Infrastructure

First Continental European Railway Opens

May 5th, 1835 189 years ago

The first railway in continental Europe began operations, connecting Brussels and Mechelen in Belgium. This inaugural line was approximately 20 kilometers long, allowing for faster transport of goods and passengers. It marked a significant development in the advancement of rail transportation, showcasing the beginning of a rapidly evolving industrial age. The success of this railway spurred further developments in the Belgian railway network, paving the way for extensive connectivity across Europe.

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Arts & Culture

Launch of the New York Herald by James Gordon Bennett, Sr.

May 6th, 1835 189 years ago

James Gordon Bennett, Sr. published the inaugural issue of the New York Herald, a newspaper that revolutionized journalism in America. Originally known for its sensational reporting and dedication to breaking news, the Herald quickly gained popularity among readers in New York City. Bennett's editorial vision emphasized the importance of immediacy and public interest stories, establishing a new template for newspaper publishing. This move not only changed the landscape of American journalism but also set higher standards for news reporting and engagement with the public.

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Science & Technology

James Bowman Lindsay's Electric Light Demonstration

July 25th, 1835 189 years ago

In Dundee, Scotland, James Bowman Lindsay showcased his remarkable constant electric light at a public meeting. This demonstration, attended by notable members of the community, was aimed at revealing the potential of electric lighting to transform everyday life. Lindsay’s invention utilized a simple apparatus that captivated the audience, presenting a clear and steady light source, contrasting with the flickering candles and gas lamps common at the time. The event sparked interest in electric lighting, paving the way for future advancements in the field.

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Entertainment

P. T. Barnum Launches Showman Career with Joice Heth

August 10th, 1835 189 years ago

P. T. Barnum began his illustrious career as a showman by showcasing Joice Heth, an elderly African slave whom he claimed was once the nursemaid to George Washington. Barnum presented her act in New York City, claiming she was 161 years old, drawing massive crowds curious about her story. This marked the beginning of Barnum's reputation for sensationalism and the art of showmanship in entertainment.

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Space Exploration

The Great Moon Hoax: Life on the Moon!

August 25th, 1835 189 years ago

A series of articles published in The New York Sun claimed the discovery of life and civilizations on the Moon, written by journalist Richard Adams Locke. The reports described fantastical creatures and landscapes, captivating the imagination of the public. The articles were presented as credible scientific findings, drawing widespread attention and fueling interest in astronomy and space exploration. This unprecedented sensationalism marked a significant moment in the relationship between media and public perception of science.

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Exploration & Discovery

Foundation of Melbourne, Victoria

August 30th, 1835 189 years ago

In August 1835, a group of British settlers led by John Batman established a settlement at Port Phillip Bay, which would later become Melbourne. They were attracted by the region's fertile land and abundant resources. Batman negotiated a land purchase with the local Indigenous people, claiming the area for the British Crown and declaring it a new colony. The settlement grew rapidly due to its strategic location and favorable conditions for agriculture and trade.

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Exploration & Discovery

HMS Beagle Lands at Galápagos Islands

September 15th, 1835 189 years ago

HMS Beagle, carrying Charles Darwin, arrived at the Galápagos Islands, specifically San Cristobal, during its extensive voyage. This crucial stop allowed Darwin to observe unique wildlife, setting the stage for his later theories on evolution. The ship's presence in this remote archipelago opened a new avenue for scientific exploration, highlighting the diverse ecosystems and species that were unlike anything previously documented by scientists.

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Military & Warfare

Rebels Capture Porto Alegre in Ragamuffin War

September 20th, 1835 189 years ago

Ragamuffin War begins as rebels seize Porto Alegre, Brazil. Led by revolutionaries seeking independence from the provincial government, the capture marks a significant escalation in conflict. The city, vital for its strategic and economic importance, becomes a stronghold for rebel forces. The ensuing decade-long struggle includes battles for political autonomy, resulting in a series of confrontations throughout the region. This initial victory galvanized further support for the revolutionary cause among the populace.

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Military & Warfare

Militia Resists Mexican Troops in Gonzales

October 2nd, 1835 189 years ago

Mexican troops attempted to disarm residents in Gonzales, Texas, leading to a confrontation with a local militia. The government aimed to retrieve a cannon lent to the settlers for defense against Native American attacks. However, the residents, led by John H. Moore, were determined to keep their weaponry and mounted fierce resistance, reflecting the growing tensions between Texians and the Mexican authority.

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