What Happened This Year 1864

Historical Events from This Year 1864

Military & Warfare

Union Cavalry Victory at Toms Brook

October 9th, 1864 160 years ago

Union cavalrymen defeated Confederate forces at Toms Brook during Sheridan's Shenandoah Valley campaign. This battle showcased the effectiveness of Union Cavalry under General Philip Sheridan, as they outmaneuvered and overcame Confederate troops. The victory was crucial in maintaining Union control over the Shenandoah Valley and disrupting Confederate supply lines.

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Military & Warfare

Union Garrison in Glasgow Surrenders

October 15th, 1864 160 years ago

On October 15, 1864, Confederate forces successfully captured the Union garrison at Glasgow, Missouri. The event unfolded when Confederate General Joseph O. Shelby led his troops in a surprise attack against the Union-held position. The garrison, defended by Union soldiers, was forced to surrender without significant resistance. This marked a strategic victory for Confederate forces in the region, emphasizing the ongoing military tensions between the Union and Confederacy in the western theater of the American Civil War.

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Crime & Law

Confederate Bank Robbery in Vermont

October 19th, 1864 160 years ago

Confederate agents from Canada executed a bold bank heist in Saint Albans, Vermont, robbing three banks in a single day. Led by Captain Bennett H. Young, the group stole over $200,000 in cash and valuables, making their escape as U.S. Marshal Allan Pinkerton coordinated the pursuit. The raid aimed to disrupt Union finances and illustrate Southern resolve as the Civil War approached its final phases, showcasing the lengths to which Confederates would go to gather resources amidst dwindling support.

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Military & Warfare

Cedar Creek Crushes Last Confederate Threat

October 19th, 1864 160 years ago

The Battle of Cedar Creek was a significant confrontation in the American Civil War, taking place in Virginia. On this day, Union forces led by General Philip Sheridan clashed with Confederate troops under General Jubal Early. After an initial surprise attack by Early's forces, Sheridan rallied his men, launching a decisive counterattack that turned the tide of the battle. By the end of the day, the Union secured a decisive victory, effectively ending the Confederate threat to Washington, D.C.

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Military & Warfare

Union Victory at the Battle of Westport

October 23rd, 1864 160 years ago

The Battle of Westport was a major confrontation during the American Civil War, which took place in October 1864 in the vicinity of Kansas City, Missouri. The Union forces, commanded by Major General Samuel R. Curtis, faced off against Confederate General Sterling Price's army. This battle marked the last significant engagement west of the Mississippi River, culminating in a decisive Union victory. The Union's success effectively ended Confederate attempts to gain control in the region, solidifying their dominance in the western theater of the war.

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Military & Warfare

Union Assault on Richmond Fails

October 28th, 1864 160 years ago

A Union force launched an attack on Richmond, Virginia, the capital of the Confederacy, which was met with fierce resistance from Confederate defenders. Despite the Union's plans to capture the city and potentially end the war, the assault was repelled effectively. The battle illustrated the challenges the Union faced in attempting to penetrate the deeply fortified Confederate positions around the city.

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Politics & Government

Denmark Admits Loss in Treaty of Vienna

October 30th, 1864 160 years ago

The Treaty of Vienna was signed, marking a significant shift in power after the Second War of Schleswig. Denmark formally relinquished the provinces of Schleswig and Holstein. This agreement arose from the conflict involving Denmark, Prussia, and Austria, which had aimed to consolidate control over the duchies. The peace negotiations led to the recognition of shifting borders in Northern Europe and greater ambitions for Prussia and Austria.

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Politics & Government

Nevada Joins the United States as 36th State

October 31st, 1864 160 years ago

Nevada was officially admitted as the 36th state of the United States following rapid growth due to the silver mining boom in the region. The state capital, Carson City, became a focal point for governance. The admission was also strategically timed to bolster support for President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, as Nevada's electoral votes were critical for his re-election campaign. The unique circumstances surrounding Nevada's statehood highlighted the significance of resource-rich territories in the expanding United States.

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Military & Warfare

Confederate Bombardment of Union Supply Base

November 4th, 1864 160 years ago

Confederate forces attacked the Union supply base at Johnsonville, Tennessee, causing significant destruction to supplies and materiel. The operation aimed to disrupt Union logistics and was conducted under the command of General Nathan Bedford Forrest. The attack led to the loss of millions of dollars in critical supplies, impacting the Union Army's ability to sustain its operations in the region.

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