What Happened This Year 1877

Historical Events from This Year 1877

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Pittsburgh Workers Stage Sympathy Strike

July 21st, 1877 147 years ago

Following unrest among Baltimore and Ohio Railroad workers, who rioted after the deaths of nine rail workers due to militia action, workers in Pittsburgh initiated a sympathy strike. The situation escalated as the state militia responded to the strike with aggressive force, resulting in violence and chaos in the streets. This act of solidarity among workers demonstrated the growing tensions between labor and authority during a time of economic struggle and unrest.

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Military & Warfare

Clash at the Battle of the Big Hole

August 9th, 1877 147 years ago

A small band of Nez Percé Indians engaged U.S. Army forces in a bloody confrontation at the Big Hole River in Montana. The Nez Percé, led by Chief Joseph, were attempting to escape to Canada while the U.S. Army sought to return them to their ancestral lands in Idaho. The encounter evolved into a fierce battle, with the Nez Percé taking advantage of the terrain to launch surprise attacks. Despite their courageous defense, the Nez Percé faced significant casualties, ultimately resulting in a strategic setback in their quest for freedom.

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Space Exploration

Asaph Hall Discovers Mars's Moon Phobos

August 18th, 1877 147 years ago

American astronomer Asaph Hall discovered Phobos, one of the two moons of Mars, while conducting detailed observations of the planet at the US Naval Observatory in Washington, D.C. Hall undertook this groundbreaking work to deepen understanding of celestial bodies, using a telescopic method that allowed him to meticulously track the movements of Mars and its surroundings. The discovery was significant as Phobos is one of the largest and nearest moons to Earth and provided essential insights into the characteristics of Martian satellites.

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Military & Warfare

Crazy Horse's Resistance and Fatal Confinement

September 5th, 1877 147 years ago

Oglala Sioux chief Crazy Horse was bayoneted by a United States soldier after attempting to resist confinement in a guardhouse at Fort Robinson in Nebraska. This incident occurred during tensions between Native American tribes and U.S. forces. Crazy Horse’s death marked a significant moment in the ongoing struggle between the Sioux Nation and the U.S. government, highlighting the violent clashes over territory and sovereignty.

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Military & Warfare

Decisive Victory at the Battle of Shiroyama

September 24th, 1877 147 years ago

The Battle of Shiroyama marked a critical confrontation between the Imperial Japanese Army and the forces of the Satsuma Rebellion. Taking place in Kumamoto Prefecture, it was the last stand of Saigo Takamori and his rebel troops, who sought to resist the rapid modernization under the Meiji government. The conflict resulted in a decisive victory for the Imperial forces, showcasing their advanced military strategies and weaponry.

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Military & Warfare

Nez Perce War Concludes with Surrender

October 5th, 1877 147 years ago

The Nez Perce War concluded with Chief Joseph's surrender to General Oliver O. Howard. This event marked the end of the conflict between the Nez Perce tribe and the U.S. government. After a strategic but ultimately unsuccessful retreat, Chief Joseph, leading his people toward Canada for freedom, agreed to capitulate near the Bear Paw Mountains in Montana. His famous speech of regret garnered significant attention, symbolizing the struggle of Native American tribes against U.S. expansion.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Blantyre Mining Disaster Claims Lives of Miners

October 22nd, 1877 147 years ago

In the Blantyre coal mine in Scotland, a significant disaster occurred when an explosion led to the deaths of 207 miners. The tragedy unfolded in the depths of the mine, where men were working in perilous conditions. The explosion was caused by a methane gas ignition, which resulted in a chain reaction that devastated the area. Rescue efforts were initiated immediately, but the harsh conditions delayed assistance. Many families were affected, and the loss reverberated throughout the mining community.

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Science & Technology

Thomas Edison announces the phonograph invention

November 21st, 1877 147 years ago

Thomas Edison revealed his groundbreaking invention, the phonograph, which could record and reproduce sound. This innovation occurred in a demonstration that captivated the audience, showcasing the machine's ability to capture audio, a feat previously unattainable. Edison's creation was a significant leap forward in sound technology, paving the way for future developments in recording and playback.

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Arts & Culture

Publication of Anna Sewell's Black Beauty

November 24th, 1877 147 years ago

In 1877, Anna Sewell's novel 'Black Beauty' was published to wide acclaim. The book, narrated from the perspective of a horse, illustrates the cruel treatment of animals and advocates for their welfare. It gained popularity swiftly, promoting empathy towards animals and significant discussions about animal rights. The narrative not only explores the horse's experiences but also invokes a sense of compassion among readers for the plight of mistreated animals.

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