What Happened This Year 1886

Historical Events from This Year 1886

Military & Warfare

Geronimo Surrenders to General Miles

September 4th, 1886 138 years ago

Geronimo, a leader of the Apache, surrenders to U.S. General Nelson Miles in Arizona after a three-decade conflict against American expansion. His surrender marks a critical point in the struggles of Native Americans in the Southwest. This decision signifies the end of the testing resistance by the Apache against the encroaching settlers and the U.S. military. The events leading to his surrender highlight the tensions between Native Americans and the federal government over land, resources, and autonomy.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Normanton Incident Sparks Outrage in Japan

October 24th, 1886 138 years ago

The British merchant vessel Normanton sank off Japan, and in its final moments, the European officers commandeered the lifeboats, leaving Asian crew and passengers behind. This incident generated significant political outrage in Japan, highlighting issues of colonial attitudes and racial tensions amidst maritime disasters.

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Cultural Traditions

Grover Cleveland Dedicates the Statue of Liberty

October 28th, 1886 138 years ago

On a festive day, President Grover Cleveland dedicated the Statue of Liberty, a gift from France symbolizing freedom and democracy. The grand ceremony took place on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, attended by thousands of people. Cleveland emphasized the statue's significance as a beacon of hope and a welcome to immigrants arriving in America. The statue was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and backed by Édouard René de Laboulaye, celebrating the enduring friendship between France and the United States.

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