What Happened This Year 1870

Historical Events from This Year 1870

Military & Warfare

Siege of Metz Begins in Franco-Prussian War

September 3rd, 1870 154 years ago

The Franco-Prussian War saw the Siege of Metz commence, where Prussian forces surrounded the French city of Metz. Under the command of General Helmuth von Moltke, the Prussians aimed to cut off supplies and capture the French garrison. Metz, a critical stronghold, became the focal point for military strategy following the rapid advances of Prussian troops in the conflict. As the siege progressed, the isolation and pressure on the besieged French forces intensified, leading to a shift in the war's dynamics.

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Politics & Government

Fall of Emperor Napoleon III in France

September 4th, 1870 154 years ago

Emperor Napoleon III was deposed following military defeats during the Franco-Prussian War, leading to the establishment of the Third Republic. Following his surrender to Prussian forces, a provisional government was formed in Paris, highlighting the decline of imperial authority amid the rising tide of republican sentiment in France. This shift marked a pivotal change in the French political landscape.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Louisa Ann Swain Casts First Legal Vote

September 6th, 1870 154 years ago

Louisa Ann Swain became the first woman in the United States to legally cast a vote in Laramie, Wyoming. This groundbreaking act took place during a local election where women were allowed to participate in voting, a right granted by the Wyoming Territory in 1869. Swain's vote marked a pivotal moment in the suffrage movement, demonstrating the potential for women's participation in democracy. As she cast her ballot, Swain not only exercised her rights but also set a precedent for women's voting rights across the nation.

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Military & Warfare

Siege of Paris Begins During Franco-Prussian War

September 19th, 1870 154 years ago

The siege of Paris commenced as Prussian forces encircled the city, marking a significant phase in the Franco-Prussian War. As tensions escalated, Germany aimed to assert dominance over France, capturing key locations around Paris. The city, home to around two million residents, became isolated, facing shortages of food and supplies. Despite the dire situation, the Parisian defenders held out for over four months, demonstrating remarkable resilience against the well-equipped Prussian army. The siege would ultimately culminate in Paris's surrender in January, marking a pivotal moment in the war.

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Military & Warfare

Bersaglieri Corps Captures Rome at Porta Pia

September 20th, 1870 154 years ago

The Bersaglieri corps, part of the Kingdom of Italy's army, successfully entered Rome through the Porta Pia after a brief conflict with the Papal forces. This military action marked a significant moment in the process of Italian unification, culminating in the annexation of the Papal States into Italy. The city's capture was pivotal for the new Italian state, completing the political project initiated by figures like Giuseppe Garibaldi and Camillo Benso di Cavour.

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Politics & Government

Papal States Vote for Kingdom of Italy Annexation

October 2nd, 1870 154 years ago

Citizens of the Papal States expressed their approval for annexation by the Kingdom of Italy through a plebiscite. This referendum revealed strong support for unification with Italy, demonstrating the desire among the local populace for a unified national identity. The plebiscite figures indicated a significant majority in favor, catalyzing the political transformation of the region.

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Politics & Government

Léon Gambetta Escapes Paris by Balloon

October 7th, 1870 154 years ago

Léon Gambetta made a daring escape from the besieged Paris in a hot-air balloon. Amid the Franco-Prussian War, Paris was surrounded by German forces, severely limiting communication and supply lines. Gambetta's flight on October 7th aimed to reach Tours, where he could organize resistance against the Germans. The escape was a bold move, showcasing the lengths to which French leaders would go to maintain hope during the siege.

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Military & Warfare

Bazaine's Surrender at Metz

October 27th, 1870 154 years ago

Marshal Nicolas Bazaine surrendered to Prussian forces, marking a significant defeat for France during the Siege of Metz. With him, over 140,000 French soldiers laid down their arms, yielding after a prolonged siege that lasted from August. This event shifted the power dynamic in the ongoing Franco-Prussian War and set the stage for further military engagements.

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Science & Technology

First Official Meteorological Forecast Issued

November 1st, 1870 154 years ago

The Weather Bureau, later known as the National Weather Service, released its first official meteorological forecast. This announcement marked a significant milestone in the field of weather prediction, aiming to provide timely and accurate weather information to the public and various sectors, including agriculture and shipping. It laid the groundwork for modern meteorology and emergency preparedness.

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