🕙 1066 - 2025 AD Timeline

1066 to 2025 Timeline: politics, warfare, culture, economy, technology, society, colonialism, religion

Historical timeline covering events from 1066 to 2025 in categories: politics, warfare, culture, economy, technology, society, colonialism, religion

Timeline Events

Battle of Stamford Bridge
Year: 1066
Category: Warfare & Military
in the Battle of Stamford Bridge, the last Anglo-Saxon King Harold Godwinson defeated his brother Tostig Godwinson and Harold III of Norway.
Related Links:
Tags: Medieval England, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, Norman Conquest, Warfare, Battle, Military History
Norman Conquest of England
Year: 1066
Category: Warfare & Military
Edward the Confessor dies; Harold Godwinson is killed in the Battle of Hastings, while the Norman William the Conqueror is crowned king of England. This is what most experts think of as the end of the Viking age.
Related Links:
Tags: Norman Conquest, Middle Ages, Feudalism, William the Conqueror, Viking Age, Military History
Compilation of the Domesday Book
Year: 1086
Category: Politics
compilation of the Domesday Book by order of William I of England; it was similar to a modern-day government census, as it was used by William to thoroughly document all the landholdings within the kingdom that could be properly taxed.
Related Links:
Tags: Medieval England, William the Conqueror, Taxation, Census, Feudalism, Land Ownership, Governance, Norman Conquest, Administration
William the Conqueror Orders the Domesday Book
Year: 1086
Category: Economy & Trade
– The Domesday Book is initiated by William I of England.
Related Links:
- Domesday Book
- William I of England
Tags: Middle Ages, Norman Conquest, Taxation, Feudalism, William the Conqueror, Census, Land Ownership, Economic History
William II Crowned King of England
Year: 1087
Category: Politics
William II of England, son of William the Conqueror, is crowned king of England.
Related Links:
- William II of England
Tags: Monarchy, Medieval England, Norman Conquest, Succession, King, Feudalism, Governance
Failed Rebellion Against William II
Year: 1088
Category: Warfare & Military
Rebellion of 1088 against William II of England led by Odo of Bayeux.
Related Links:
Tags: Medieval England, Norman Conquest, Rebellion, Civil War, Feudalism, Military Conflict
King Malcolm III of Scotland Killed at the Battle of Alnwick
Year: 1093
Category: Warfare & Military
Battle of Alnwick: Malcolm III of Scotland is killed by the forces of William II of England.
Related Links:
Tags: Battle, Medieval Warfare, Kingdom of England, Military History
First Lectures Held at the University of Oxford
Year: 1096
Category: Society & Culture
University of Oxford in England holds its first lectures
Related Links:
- University of Oxford
- England
Tags: Middle Ages, Universities, Higher Education, Society, Scholasticism, Intellectual History
First Crusade: Siege of Antioch
Year: 1098
Category: Warfare & Military
the Siege of Antioch during the First Crusade
Related Links:
- Siege of Antioch
- First Crusade
Tags: Crusades, Medieval Warfare, Siege Warfare, Holy Land, Byzantine Empire, Muslims, Religious Conflict
Henry I Crowned King of England
Year: 1100
Category: Politics
On August 5, Henry I is crowned King of England.
Tags: Monarchy, Medieval England, Norman Conquest, Succession
Treaty of Alton: Henry I and Robert of Normandy
Year: 1101
Category: Politics
In July, the Treaty of Alton is signed between Henry I of England and his older brother Robert, Duke of Normandy in which Robert agrees to recognize Henry as king of England in exchange for a yearly stipend and other concessions. The agreement temporarily ends a crisis in the succession of the Anglo-Norman kings.
Related Links:
Tags: Medieval England, Succession, Treaty, Royal Authority, Feudalism
Norman Victory at Tinchebray
Year: 1106
Category: Warfare & Military
Battle of Tinchebray.
Related Links:
- Battle of Tinchebray
Tags: Medieval Warfare, Norman Conquest, Angevin Empire, Battle, Military History
David I Crowned King of Scots
Year: 1124
Category: Politics
In April or May, David I is crowned King of the Scots.
Related Links:
- David I
- King of the Scots
Tags: Monarchy, Scottish History, Middle Ages, Political History, Medieval Europe, Succession
Beginning of The Anarchy: Civil War Erupts in England
Year: 1135
Category: Warfare & Military
1154: The Anarchy takes place, during a period of civil war in England.
Related Links:
- The Anarchy
Tags: Civil War, Medieval England, Anarchy, Succession, Feudalism, Conflict
Second Crusade Launched
Year: 1145
Category: Warfare & Military
1148: The Second Crusade is launched in response to the fall of the County of Edessa.
Related Links:
- Second Crusade
- County of Edessa
Tags: Crusades, Middle Ages, Holy Land, Christianity, Military Campaign, Frankish States, Papal States, Religious Warfare, Kingdom of Jerusalem, Islamic World
Treaty of Wallingford Ends English Civil War
Year: 1153
Category: Politics
The Treaty of Wallingford, ends the civil war between Empress Matilda and her cousin King Stephen of England fought over the English crown. Stephen acknowledges Matilda's son Henry of Anjou as heir.
Related Links:
Tags: Middle Ages, Civil War, Treaty, Succession, Monarchy, Anarchy
Henry II Crowned King of England
Year: 1154
Category: Politics
On December 27, Henry II is crowned King of England at Westminster Abbey.
Tags: Monarchy, Middle Ages, Angevin Empire, Henry II
Pope Adrian IV Grants Ireland to Henry II
Year: 1155
Category: Politics
Pope Adrian IV grants overlordship of Ireland to Henry II of England in the bull Laudabiliter.
Related Links:
Tags: Middle Ages, Papal Bull, Henry II, Irish History, English History, Political Intrigue, Church and State
Norman Invasion of Ireland Begins
Year: 1169
Category: Warfare & Military
On May 1, the Norman invasion of Ireland begins. Richard fitzGilbert de Clare ('Strongbow') allies with the exiled Irish chief, Dermot MacMurrough, to help him recover his kingdom of Leinster.
Related Links:
Tags: Norman Conquest, Invasion, Medieval Warfare, Military Alliance, Feudalism, Colonialism
Murder of Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral
Year: 1170
Category: Religion
On December 29, Thomas Becket is murdered in Canterbury Cathedral.
Related Links:
- Thomas Becket
- Canterbury Cathedral
Tags: Medieval England, Christianity, Catholicism, Henry II, Martyrdom, Religious Conflict, Feudalism, Church and State
Henry II Lands in Ireland to Claim Lordship
Year: 1171
Category: Politics
On November 11, Henry II of England lands in Ireland to assert his claim as Lord of Ireland.
Related Links:
- Henry II of England
Tags: Middle Ages, English Monarchy, Irish History, Colonialism, Norman Conquest, Henry II, Political Intrigue, British Isles
William I of Scotland Captured and Submits to English Rule
Year: 1174
Category: Politics
On July 12, William I of Scotland is captured by the English in the Battle of Alnwick. He accepts the feudal overlordship of the English crown and pays ceremonial allegiance at York.
Related Links:
- William I of Scotland
- Battle of Alnwick
Tags: Feudalism, English Monarchy
Treaty of Windsor Establishes English Influence in Ireland
Year: 1175
Category: Politics
The Treaty of Windsor is signed by King Henry II of England and the High King of Ireland, Ruaidrí Ua Conchobair.
Related Links:
Tags: Treaty, Irish History, Middle Ages, Henry II, Political Agreement, Feudalism
First Documented Use of Windmills
Year: 1185
Category: Technology
First record of windmills.
Related Links:
- windmills
Tags: Middle Ages, Energy, Agriculture, Wind Power, Resource Management
Richard I Crowned King of England
Year: 1189
Category: Politics
On September 3, Richard I is crowned King of England at Westminster.
Tags: Monarchy, Medieval England, Coronation
Preparations for the Third Crusade
Year: 1189
Category: Warfare & Military
1192: The Third Crusade is an attempt by European leaders to wrest the Holy Land from Saladin.
Related Links:
Tags: Crusades, Holy Land, Medieval Warfare, Saladin, Philip II of France, Holy Roman Empire, Military Campaign, Religious Conflict
Emperor Frederick Barbarossa's Death and Crusader Army's Disintegration
Year: 1190
Category: Warfare & Military
On June 10, Emperor Frederick Barbarossa drowns in the River Salef, leaving the Crusader army under the command of the rivals Philip II of France and Richard I of England, which ultimately leads to the dissolution of the army.
Related Links:
- Philip II of France
- Richard I of England
Tags: Crusades, Holy Roman Empire, Frederick Barbarossa, Philip II of France, Military Leadership, Medieval Europe
Richard I Defeats Saladin at Arsuf
Year: 1191
Category: Warfare & Military
On September 7, Saladin is defeated by Richard I of England at the Battle of Arsuf.
Related Links:
Tags: Crusades, Battle, Military History, Saladin, Ayyubid Dynasty, Holy Land, Medieval Warfare, Kingdom of Jerusalem
Richard the Lionheart's Victory at the Battle of Jaffa
Year: 1192
Category: Warfare & Military
In the Battle of Jaffa, King Richard the Lionheart defeats Saladin.
Related Links:
Tags: Crusades, Military History, Battle, Saladin, Ayyubid Dynasty, Kingdom of Jerusalem, Medieval Warfare, Holy Land
Treaty of Ramla: Jerusalem Remains Muslim, Latin Kingdom Reduced
Year: 1192
Category: Politics
In June, the Treaty of Ramla is signed by Saladin and Richard Lionheart. Under the terms of the agreement, Jerusalem will remain under Muslim control. However, the city will be open to Christian pilgrims. The Latin Kingdom is reduced to a coastal strip that extends from Tyre to Jaffa.
Related Links:
- Treaty of Ramla
Tags: Crusades, Treaty, Diplomacy, Saladin, Christianity, Political Settlement
Arthur of Brittany Defeated at the Battle of Mirebeau
Year: 1202
Category: Warfare & Military
Battle of Mirebeau occurs on August 1, between Arthur I of Brittany and John of England.
Related Links:
Tags: Medieval Warfare, Angevin Empire, Military Defeat, Feudalism
French Conquest of Normandy
Year: 1204
Category: Warfare & Military
Fall of Normandy from Angevin hands to the French King, Philip Augustus, end of Norman domination of France.
Related Links:
Tags: Angevin Empire, Feudalism, Conquest, Territorial Expansion, Warfare
French Victory at the Battle of Bouvines
Year: 1214
Category: Warfare & Military
France defeats the English and Imperial German forces at the Battle of Bouvines.
Related Links:
- Battle of Bouvines
Tags: Middle Ages, Military History, Holy Roman Empire, Battle, Philip II of France, Angevin Empire, Feudalism, Warfare
King John Signs Magna Carta
Year: 1215
Category: Politics
King John signs Magna Carta at Runnymede.
Related Links:
- Magna Carta
- Runnymede
Tags: Monarchy, Feudalism, Limited Government, Constitutionalism, Legal History
Treaty of Paris Settles Disputes Between England and France
Year: 1259
Category: Politics
Treaty of Paris is signed between Louis IX and Henry III
Related Links:
Tags: Treaty, Angevin Empire, Diplomacy, Territorial Disputes
Edward I and Charles of Anjou Launch Ninth Crusade in Acre
Year: 1271
Category: Warfare & Military
Edward I of England and Charles of Anjou arrive in Acre, starting the Ninth Crusade against Baibars.
Related Links:
Tags: Crusades, Warfare, Military Campaign, Acre, Mamluk Sultanate
Peterhouse College Founded at Cambridge University
Year: 1284
Category: Society & Culture
Peterhouse, Cambridge founded by Hugo de Balsham, the Bishop of Ely.
Related Links:
- Peterhouse, Cambridge
- Bishop of Ely
Tags: Universities, Higher Education, Cambridge University, Medieval England, Education, Society
English Jews Expelled by Royal Decree
Year: 1290
Category: Religion
By the Edict of Expulsion, King Edward I of England orders all Jews to leave the Kingdom of England.
Related Links:
Tags: Religious Violence, Anti-Semitism, Middle Ages, Jewish Diaspora, Discrimination, Exile
Outbreak of the First War of Scottish Independence
Year: 1296
Category: Warfare & Military
First War of Scottish Independence begins.
Related Links:
- First War of Scottish Independence
Tags: Middle Ages, Warfare, Scottish Independence, Military Conflict
Hundred Years' War Begins: Edward III Claims French Throne
Year: 1337
Category: Warfare & Military
The Hundred Years' War begins when Edward III of England lays claim to the French throne.
Related Links:
- Hundred Years' War
- Edward III of England
Tags: Hundred Years' War, Warfare, Monarchy, Medieval Europe, Military Conflict, Political Intrigue
English Victory at the Battle of Crécy
Year: 1346
Category: Warfare & Military
English forces led by Edward III defeat a French army led by Philip VI of France in The Battle of Crécy, a major point in the Hundred Years' War which marks the rise of the longbow as a dominant weapon in Western Europe.
Related Links:
Tags: Hundred Years' War, Medieval Warfare, Battle, Military History
Treaty of Berwick: Scotland Maintains Independence
Year: 1357
Category: Politics
Scotland retains its independence with the signing of the Treaty of Berwick, thus ending the Wars of Scottish Independence.
Related Links:
- Treaty of Berwick
- Wars of Scottish Independence
Tags: Treaty, Scottish Independence, Middle Ages, Sovereignty, Diplomacy, Conflict Resolution
John Wycliffe's Dismissal and the Rise of Lollardy
Year: 1381
Category: Religion
John Wycliffe is dismissed from the University of Oxford for criticism of the Catholic Church, leading to the Lollardy movement in England.
Related Links:
Tags: Christianity, Heresy, Catholicism, Middle Ages, Religious Movement
English Peasants' Uprising
Year: 1381
Category: Society & Culture
Peasants' Revolt in England.
Related Links:
- Peasants' Revolt
Tags: Peasantry, Rebellion, Social Unrest, Middle Ages, Feudalism, Taxation, Class Conflict
Owain Glyndŵr's Uprising: Welsh Resistance to English Rule
Year: 1410
Category: Warfare & Military
1415: The last Welsh war of independence, led by Owain Glyndŵr.
Related Links:
- The last Welsh war of independence
- Owain Glyndŵr
Tags: English History, War of Independence, Rebellion, Middle Ages, Military Conflict
English Victory at the Battle of Agincourt
Year: 1415
Category: Warfare & Military
Battle of Agincourt fought between the Kingdom of England and France.
Related Links:
Tags: Hundred Years' War, Medieval Warfare, English History, French History, Military Tactics, Henry V
James I Returns to Scotland After English Captivity
Year: 1424
Category: Politics
James I returns to Scotland after being held hostage under three Kings of England since 1406.
Related Links:
Tags: Monarchy, Scottish History, English History, Political Intrigue
Joan of Arc's Victory at Orléans
Year: 1429
Category: Warfare & Military
Joan of Arc ends the Siege of Orléans and turns the tide of the Hundred Years' War.
Related Links:
Tags: Hundred Years' War, Military History, Siege, French History, English History, Joan of Arc, Medieval Warfare, Nationalism, Battle
Joan of Arc's Pretrial Investigations Commence
Year: 1431
Category: Religion
9 January – Pretrial investigations for Joan of Arc begin in Rouen, France under English occupation.
Related Links:
Tags: Hundred Years' War, Joan of Arc, Trial, Religious Violence, Catholicism, Military Leadership
Eton College Established by Henry VI
Year: 1440
Category: Society & Culture
Eton College founded by Henry VI.
Related Links:
- Eton College
Tags: Education, Higher Education, Henry VI, Middle Ages, Society
Battle of Castillon: Cannon's Decisive Role
Year: 1453
Category: Warfare & Military
The Battle of Castillon is the last engagement of the Hundred Years' War and the first battle in European history where cannons were a major factor in deciding the battle.
Related Links:
- Battle of Castillon
- Hundred Years' War
Tags: Hundred Years' War, Medieval Warfare, Military Technology, Siege Warfare, Battle
Wars of the Roses Begin
Year: 1455
Category: Warfare & Military
1485: Wars of the Roses – English civil war between the House of York and the House of Lancaster.
Related Links:
- Wars of the Roses
Tags: Civil War, Feudalism, Monarchy, Warfare, Political Instability
Yorkist Victory at the Battle of Mortimer's Cross
Year: 1461
Category: Warfare & Military
2 February – Battle of Mortimer's Cross: Yorkist troops led by Edward, Duke of York defeat Lancastrians under Owen Tudor and his son Jasper Tudor, Earl of Pembroke in Wales.
Related Links:
Tags: War of the Roses, Battle, Medieval England, Military History
Edward IV's Secret Marriage to Elizabeth Woodville
Year: 1464
Category: Politics
Edward IV of England secretly marries Elizabeth Woodville.
Related Links:
- Edward IV of England
- Elizabeth Woodville
Tags: Monarchy, Marriage, War of the Roses, Political Intrigue
Henry VII Victorious at Battle of Bosworth, Ascends to English Throne
Year: 1485
Category: Warfare & Military
Henry VII defeats Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth and becomes King of England.
Related Links:
Tags: War of the Roses, Battle, English Monarchy, Tudor Dynasty, Middle Ages, Succession, Political Instability
English Victory at the Battle of Flodden Field
Year: 1513
Category: Warfare & Military
The Battle of Flodden Field in which invading Scots are defeated by Henry VIII's forces.
Related Links:
Tags: Battle, Henry VIII, Military, Tudor Period, Military History, Warfare
Treaty of London: Non-Aggression Pact
Year: 1518
Category: Politics
The Treaty of London was a non-aggression pact between the major European nations. The signatories were Burgundy, France, England, the Holy Roman Empire, the Netherlands, the Papal States and Spain, all of whom agreed not to attack one another and to come to the aid of any that were under attack.
Related Links:
- Treaty of London
Tags: Treaty, Diplomacy, Renaissance, European Politics, Balance of Power, International Relations, Burgundy
Anne Boleyn Crowned Queen of England
Year: 1533
Category: Politics
Anne Boleyn becomes Queen of England.
Related Links:
- Anne Boleyn
Tags: English Monarchy, Tudor Dynasty, Henry VIII, Christianity, Marriage, English Reformation, Monarchy, Royal Court
Birth of Elizabeth Tudor
Year: 1533
Category: Politics
Elizabeth Tudor is born.
Related Links:
- Elizabeth Tudor
Tags: Tudor Dynasty, Monarchy, Succession, English Monarchy, Religious Reformation, Henry VIII
Death of Catherine of Aragon
Year: 1536
Category: Politics
Catherine of Aragon dies in Kimbolton Castle, in England.Territorial expansion of the Ottoman Empire under Suleiman (in red and orange)
Related Links:
Tags: Tudor England, Ottoman Empire, Death, Suleiman the Magnificent, Tudor Dynasty, English Reformation, Henry VIII, Monarchy, Marriage, Divorce, Catholicism, Succession
Execution of Anne Boleyn
Year: 1536
Category: Politics
In England, Anne Boleyn is beheaded for adultery and treason.
Related Links:
- Anne Boleyn
Tags: Tudor Dynasty, English Reformation, Henry VIII, Adultery, Monarchy, Treason, Political Intrigue
William Tyndale's English Bible Translation Published
Year: 1537
Category: Religion
William Tyndale's partial translation of the Bible into English is published, which would eventually be incorporated into the King James Bible.
Related Links:
Tags: Bible, Translation, Christianity, English Language, Religious Texts, Printing Press
Italian War Resumes: France, Scotland, and the Ottoman Empire vs. the Holy Roman Empire and England
Year: 1542
Category: Warfare & Military
The Italian War of 1542–1546 War resumes between Francis I of France and Emperor Charles V. This time Henry VIII is allied with the Emperor, while James V of Scotland and Sultan Suleiman I are allied with the French.
Related Links:
Tags: Warfare, Holy Roman Empire, Italian Wars, European History, Military Conflict, Renaissance, Charles V, Francis I, Henry VIII, Suleiman the Magnificent, Alliances
Clan Fraser vs. Clan Macdonald of Clan Ranald: Battle of the Shirts
Year: 1544
Category: Warfare & Military
Battle of the Shirts in Scotland. The Frasers and Macdonalds of Clan Ranald fight over a disputed chiefship; reportedly, 5 Frasers and 8 Macdonalds survive.
Related Links:
Tags: Clan Warfare, Feudalism, Military History, Battle
Death of King Henry VIII
Year: 1547
Category: Politics
Henry VIII dies in the Palace of Whitehall on 28 January at the age of 55.
Related Links:
- Henry VIII
- Palace of Whitehall
Tags: English Monarchy, Tudor Dynasty, Succession, Monarchy, Renaissance, Christianity, Henry VIII, English History
Edward VI Ascends to the Throne and is Crowned
Year: 1547
Category: Politics
Edward VI becomes King of England and Ireland on 28 January and is crowned on 20 February at the age of 9.
Related Links:
- Edward VI
Tags: English Monarchy, Tudor Dynasty, Succession, Monarchy, Christianity
Mary I Ascends to Throne and Restores Catholicism
Year: 1553
Category: Religion
Mary Tudor becomes the first queen regnant of England and restores the Church of England under Papal authority.
Related Links:
- Mary Tudor
Tags: Christianity, Catholicism, Papal Authority, Religious Violence
Princess Elizabeth Imprisoned in the Tower of London
Year: 1554
Category: Politics
Princess Elizabeth is imprisoned in the Tower of London upon the orders of Mary I for suspicion of being involved in the Wyatt rebellion.
Related Links:
Tags: Tudor England, Elizabeth I, Tudor Dynasty, English Reformation, Monarchy, Imprisonment, Succession, Political Intrigue
Founding of the Muscovy Company
Year: 1555
Category: Economy & Trade
The Muscovy Company is the first major English joint stock trading company.
Related Links:
- Muscovy Company
- joint stock
Tags: Trade, Economics, Exploration, English Empire, International Trade
Elizabeth I Ascends to the English Throne
Year: 1558
Category: Politics
Elizabeth Tudor becomes Queen Elizabeth I at age 25.
Related Links:
- Elizabeth Tudor
Tags: Monarchy, Queen, Succession, Tudor Dynasty, English Monarchy, Christianity, Renaissance
England Loses Calais to France
Year: 1558
Category: Warfare & Military
After 200 years, the Kingdom of England loses Calais to France.
Related Links:
- Kingdom of England
- Calais
Tags: Military, Warfare, Military History, Territorial Disputes, Sixteenth Century, French Monarchy, English Monarchy, Siege
Italian Wars End with Peace Treaty
Year: 1559
Category: Warfare & Military
With the Peace of Cateau Cambrésis, the Italian Wars conclude.
Related Links:
- Peace of Cateau Cambrésis
- Italian Wars
Tags: Treaty, Italian Wars, Peace Treaty, Military Conflict, Habsburgs, Diplomacy
Royal Exchange Founded by Thomas Gresham
Year: 1565
Category: Economy & Trade
Royal Exchange is founded by Thomas Gresham.
Related Links:
- Royal Exchange
- Thomas Gresham
Tags: Economics, Trade, History, Finance, Mercantilism
Mary, Queen of Scots, Imprisoned by Elizabeth I
Year: 1567
Category: Politics
Mary, Queen of Scots, is imprisoned by Elizabeth I.
Related Links:
- Mary, Queen of Scots
- Elizabeth I
Tags: Elizabeth I, Tudor Period, Scottish History, English History, Monarchy, Political Intrigue, Imprisonment, Religious Conflict
Catholic Rebellion in Northern England
Year: 1569
Category: Warfare & Military
Rising of the North in England.
Related Links:
- Rising of the North
Tags: Rebellion, Elizabeth I, Catholicism, Religious Conflict, Counter-Reformation, Political Instability
Pope Pius V Excommunicates Elizabeth I
Year: 1570
Category: Religion
Pope Pius V issues Regnans in Excelsis, a papal bull excommunicating all who obeyed Elizabeth I and calling on all Catholics to rebel against her.
Related Links:
Tags: Christianity, Religious Conflict, Papal Bull, Elizabeth I, Counter-Reformation, Excommunication, English Reformation, Catholicism
Drake's Raids Prompt Spanish Armada Buildup and Impoundment of English Ships
Year: 1580
Category: Warfare & Military
Drake's royal reception after his attacks on Spanish possessions influences Philip II of Spain to build up the Spanish Armada. English ships in Spanish harbours are impounded.
Related Links:
Tags: Exploration, Naval Warfare, Spanish Armada, Anglo-Spanish War, Philip II, Colonialism, Age of Exploration
Execution of Mary, Queen of Scots
Year: 1587
Category: Politics
Mary, Queen of Scots is executed by Elizabeth I.
Related Links:
- Mary, Queen of Scots
- Elizabeth I
Tags: Tudor England, Monarchy, Religious Conflict, Scottish History, Elizabeth I, Execution, Succession, English Reformation
England Defeats the Spanish Armada
Year: 1588
Category: Warfare & Military
England repulses the Spanish Armada.
Related Links:
- Spanish Armada
Tags: Warfare, Elizabeth I, Naval Warfare, Military History, Christianity, Philip II
Spanish Victory Over the English Armada
Year: 1589
Category: Warfare & Military
Spain repulses the English Armada.
Related Links:
- English Armada
Tags: Spanish Armada, Naval Warfare, Elizabeth I, Warfare, Military History, Anglo-Spanish War, Philip II, European History, Maritime Power
William Lee's Invention of the Stocking Frame
Year: 1589
Category: Technology
William Lee invents the stocking frame.
Related Links:
- William Lee
- stocking frame
Tags: Textile Industry, Industrial Revolution, Mechanization, Manufacturing
First Flush Toilet Designed and Published
Year: 1591
Category: Technology
First flush toilet is introduced by Sir John Harrington of England, the design published under the title 'The Metamorphosis of Ajax'.
Related Links:
Tags: Hygiene, Public Health
Backstaff Invention by John Davis
Year: 1594
Category: Technology
Backstaff: Invented by Captain John Davis.
Related Links:
- Backstaff
- John Davis
Tags: Navigation, Exploration, Maritime History, Age of Discovery
British East India Company Chartered by Elizabeth I
Year: 1600
Category: Economy & Trade
Elizabeth I grants a charter to the British East India Company beginning the English advance in Asia.
Related Links:
- Elizabeth I
- British East India Company
Tags: Exploration, Colonialism, Trade, Monarchy, Mercantilism, British Empire, East India Company, Elizabeth I, Globalization, Corporations
Battle of Kinsale: English Victory Ends Gaelic Aristocracy
Year: 1601
Category: Warfare & Military
4th Spanish Armada; in the Battle of Kinsale, England defeats Irish and Spanish forces, driving the Gaelic aristocracy out of Ireland and destroying the Gaelic clan system.
Related Links:
- 4th Spanish Armada
- Battle of Kinsale
Tags: English Colonization, Irish History, Spanish Armada, Military Conflict, Elizabethan Era, Rebellion, Empire Building
James VI of Scotland Ascends to the English Throne
Year: 1603
Category: Politics
Elizabeth I of England dies and is succeeded by her cousin King James VI of Scotland, uniting the crowns of Scotland and England.
Related Links:
- Elizabeth I of England
- James VI of Scotland
Tags: Monarchy, Succession, Tudor Dynasty, Elizabeth I, Political Union
Gunpowder Plot Conspiracy Foiled
Year: 1605
Category: Politics
Gunpowder Plot failed in England.
Related Links:
- Gunpowder Plot
Tags: Political Intrigue, Religious Conflict, Catholicism, Christianity, Conspiracy, Treason
Gaelic Aristocracy Flees Ireland
Year: 1607
Category: Politics
Flight of the Earls (the fleeing of most of the native Gaelic aristocracy) occurs from County Donegal in the west of Ulster in Ireland.
Related Links:
Tags: Irish History, Aristocracy
Publication of the King James Bible
Year: 1611
Category: Religion
The first publication of the King James Bible.
Related Links:
- King James Bible
Tags: Bible, Christianity, Translation, English Literature, Religious Texts, Printing Press
Cotswold Olympic Games Inaugurated
Year: 1612
Category: Society & Culture
The first Cotswold Olympic Games, an annual public celebration of games and sports begins in the Cotswolds, England.
Related Links:
- Cotswold Olympic Games
- Cotswolds
Tags: Sports, Games, Festivals, Recreation
Robert Dover Organizes Cotswold Olimpick Games
Year: 1612
Category: Society & Culture
Cotswold Olimpick Games first organized by Robert Dover.
Related Links:
- Cotswold Olimpick Games
- Robert Dover
Tags: Sports, Festivals, Recreation, Games
Mayflower Voyage to Plymouth Colony
Year: 1620
Category: Society & Culture
The Mayflower sets sail from Plymouth, England to what became the Plymouth Colony in New England.The 1622 massacre was instrumental in causing English colonists to view all natives as enemies
Related Links:
Tags: Colonialism, Puritans, New England, Atlantic World, Migration, Early American History, Massachusetts
Cornelis Drebbel Constructs First Submersible
Year: 1620
Category: Technology
Cornelis Drebbel, funded by James I of England, builds the first 'submarine' made of wood and greased leather.
Related Links:
Tags: Naval Technology, Submarine
Brownist Pilgrims Land at Cape Cod
Year: 1620
Category: Religion
The Brownist Pilgrims arrive in the Mayflower at Cape Cod.
Related Links:
Tags: Colonial America, Early American History, English Reformation, Massachusetts
Anglo-Dutch Cooperation in Spice Trade
Year: 1620
Category: Economy & Trade
Diplomatic agreements in Europe commence a three-year period of cooperation between the Dutch and the English over the spice trade.
Tags: Spice Trade, Dutch East India Company, British East India Company, Colonialism, Diplomacy, Trade Agreements, Mercantilism
Henry Cockeram Publishes English Dictionarie
Year: 1623
Category: Society & Culture
The third English dictionary, English Dictionarie, is published by Henry Cockeram, listing difficult words with definitions.
Related Links:
- Henry Cockeram
Tags: Language, Dictionaries, English Language, Literacy, Education, Books
William Oughtred Invents the Slide Rule
Year: 1630
Category: Technology
Slide rule: invented by William Oughtred
Related Links:
- Slide rule
- William Oughtred
Tags: Mathematics, Scientific Revolution, Tools, Measurement
Dutch Victory Over Spanish Fleet at the Downs
Year: 1639
Category: Warfare & Military
Naval Battle of the Downs – Republic of the United Provinces fleet decisively defeats a Spanish fleet in English waters.
Related Links:
- Battle of the Downs
- Republic of the United Provinces
Tags: Naval Warfare, Thirty Years' War, Dutch Republic, Spanish Empire, Military History, Maritime History, Naval Battle
Outbreak of the Bishops' Wars
Year: 1639
Category: Warfare & Military
1651: Wars of the Three Kingdoms, civil wars throughout Scotland, Ireland, and England.
Related Links:
- Wars of the Three Kingdoms
- England
Tags: English Civil War, Religious Conflict, Charles I, Military Campaign, Royalists
King Charles I Summons Parliament Due to Scottish Revolt
Year: 1640
Category: Politics
King Charles was compelled to summon Parliament due to the revolt of the Scots.
Related Links:
- King Charles
- Parliament
Tags: English Civil War, Parliament, Royal Authority, Political Crisis, Monarchy
Torture Abolished in England
Year: 1640
Category: Society & Culture
Torture is outlawed in England.
Related Links:
- Torture
Tags: Human Rights, Legal History, English Civil War, Justice, Abolition, Social Reform
Irish Catholic Rebellion Against English Rule
Year: 1641
Category: Warfare & Military
The Irish Rebellion, by Irish Catholics who wanted an end to discrimination, greater self-governance, and reverse ownership of the plantations of Ireland.
Related Links:
- Irish Rebellion
- plantations of Ireland
Tags: Rebellion, Religious Conflict, Catholicism, Christianity, Colonialism, Irish History
Irish Rebellion Begins
Year: 1641
Category: Warfare & Military
The Irish Rebellion.
Related Links:
- Irish Rebellion
Tags: Rebellion, Religious Conflict, English Civil War, Colonization, Catholicism
Outbreak of the English Civil War
Year: 1642
Category: Warfare & Military
Beginning of English Civil War, conflict will end in 1649 with the execution of King Charles I, the abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of the supremacy of Parliament over the king.
Related Links:
- English Civil War
- King Charles I
Tags: Civil War, Parliament, Monarchy, Warfare, Political Conflict, Republic, British History
Parliamentarian Victory at Marston Moor Achieved with Scottish Alliance
Year: 1644
Category: Warfare & Military
An alliance with Scotland enables Parliamentarian forces to win the Battle of Marston Moor.
Related Links:
- Battle of Marston Moor
Tags: English Civil War, Battle, Royalists, Military Alliance, Oliver Cromwell, British History, Civil War
East Anglian Witch Hunt Initiated by Matthew Hopkins
Year: 1645
Category: Society & Culture
1647: East Anglian Witch Hunt; catalysed by Matthew Hopkins.
Related Links:
- Matthew Hopkins
Tags: Religious Violence, Superstition
Charles I Surrenders to the Scots, Ending First English Civil War
Year: 1646
Category: Warfare & Military
Defeated, King Charles I flees and surrenders to the Scottish. The First Civil War has ended in a victory for Parliament.
Tags: English Civil War, Monarchy, Parliament, Charles I, Military Defeat, Civil War
King Charles I Executed for High Treason
Year: 1649
Category: Politics
King Charles I is executed for high treason, the first and only English king to be subjected to legal proceedings in a High Court of Justice and put to death.
Related Links:
- King Charles I
- High Court of Justice
Tags: English Civil War, Monarchy, Republic, Treason, Execution, Charles I, Parliament, Commonwealth of England, Political Revolution
Cromwell's Irish Campaign Begins
Year: 1649
Category: Warfare & Military
1653: The Cromwellian conquest of Ireland.
Related Links:
- Cromwellian conquest of Ireland
Tags: English Civil War, Irish History, Siege Warfare, Religious Conflict, Puritans, Colonialism, Military Campaign, British Isles
Parliamentarian Victory at the Battle of Worcester
Year: 1651
Category: Warfare & Military
English Civil War ends with the Parliamentarian victory at the Battle of Worcester.
Related Links:
- English Civil War
- Battle of Worcester
Tags: English Civil War, Battle, Royalists, Oliver Cromwell, Commonwealth of England, Civil War, Military History
Cromwell Dissolves Rump Parliament, Establishes Nominated Assembly and Protectorate
Year: 1653
Category: Politics
Oliver Cromwell dissolves the Rump Parliament and replaces it with the Nominated Assembly (also called the Assembly of Saints or Barebones Parliament). After three months, the Nominated Assembly passes a motion to dissolve itself and Cromwell establishes the Protectorate.
Tags: English Civil War, Oliver Cromwell, Protectorate, Republic, Parliament, Puritans, Political Transition
Oliver Cromwell's Death and Richard Cromwell's Succession
Year: 1658
Category: Politics
Cromwell dies and his son Richard becomes Lord Protector.
Tags: English Civil War, Commonwealth of England, Monarchy, Republic, Political Transition
Richard Cromwell Dissolves the Protectorate, Rump Parliament Restored
Year: 1659
Category: Politics
Richard Cromwell is pressured into dissolving the Protectorate; the Rump Parliament is restored.
Tags: English Civil War, Protectorate, Commonwealth of England, Monarchy, Republic, Political Instability, Restoration
English Restoration: Monarchy Returns
Year: 1660
Category: Politics
The Commonwealth of England ends and the monarchy is brought back during the English Restoration.
Related Links:
- Commonwealth of England
- English Restoration
Tags: Restoration, Monarchy, Commonwealth of England, Political Transition, Parliament, British History
Establishment of the Royal General Post Office
Year: 1660
Category: Economy & Trade
Royale General Post Office established.
Related Links:
- Royale General Post Office
Tags: Communication, Trade, Government, Infrastructure
James Gregory Publishes Design for Reflecting Telescope
Year: 1663
Category: Technology
James Gregory publishes designs for a reflecting telescope.
Related Links:
- James Gregory
Tags: Astronomy, Optics, Telescopes, Scientific Revolution, Instrumentation
British Takeover of New Amsterdam
Year: 1664
Category: Warfare & Military
British troops capture New Amsterdam and rename it New York.
Related Links:
- New Amsterdam
Tags: Colonialism, British Empire, Anglo-Dutch Wars, Territorial Disputes, North American History, Conquest, New York City, Atlantic World
Second Anglo-Dutch War Begins
Year: 1665
Category: Warfare & Military
1667: The Second Anglo-Dutch War fought between England and the United Provinces.
Related Links:
Tags: Naval Warfare, Anglo-Dutch Wars, Maritime Power, Colonialism, Warfare
Dutch Raid on the Medway
Year: 1667
Category: Warfare & Military
The Raid on the Medway during the Second Anglo-Dutch War.
Related Links:
- Raid on the Medway
- Second Anglo-Dutch War
Tags: Naval Warfare, Dutch Republic, Royal Navy, Blockade, Military Strategy, Anglo-Dutch Wars
Dutch Secure Nutmeg Monopoly with Treaty of Breda
Year: 1667
Category: Economy & Trade
As a result of the Treaty of Breda between Dutch and England, the Dutch secured a worldwide monopoly on nutmeg by forcing England to give up their claim on Run, the most remote of the Banda Islands.
Related Links:
Tags: Colonialism, Spice Trade, Dutch East India Company, Mercantilism, Banda Islands, Monopoly
Newton Constructs First Reflecting Telescope
Year: 1668
Category: Technology
First functional reflecting telescope constructed by Isaac Newton.
Related Links:
- reflecting telescope
- Isaac Newton
Tags: Optics, Isaac Newton, Scientific Revolution, Astronomy, Telescope, Instrumentation
Isaac Newton Constructs First Reflecting Telescope
Year: 1669
Category: Technology
The first known operational reflecting telescope is built by Isaac Newton.
Related Links:
- Isaac Newton
Tags: Optics, Telescopes, Isaac Newton, Scientific Revolution, Astronomy, Physics
Hudson's Bay Company Established
Year: 1670
Category: Economy & Trade
The Hudson's Bay Company was founded in New France (Modern-day Canada).
Related Links:
- Hudson's Bay Company
- New France
Tags: Colonialism, British Empire, Exploration, Mercantilism, Indigenous Peoples
The Third Anglo-Dutch War Begins
Year: 1672
Category: Warfare & Military
1674: The Third Anglo-Dutch War fought between England and the United Provinces
Related Links:
Tags: Anglo-Dutch Wars, Naval Warfare, European History, Colonialism, Trade, Warfare
Outbreak of the Franco-Dutch War
Year: 1672
Category: Warfare & Military
1678: Franco-Dutch War.
Related Links:
- Franco-Dutch War
Tags: Warfare, Military Conflict, Dutch Republic, Louis XIV, European History, Dutch Golden Age, Geopolitics
Treaty of Westminster Ends Anglo-Dutch War
Year: 1674
Category: Warfare & Military
The Treaty of Westminster ends the war between England and the Republic of the United Provinces.
Related Links:
- Treaty of Westminster
- Republic of the United Provinces
Tags: Anglo-Dutch Wars, Treaties, Warfare, Diplomacy, European History, International Relations
Johnathan's Coffee-House Opens in London
Year: 1680
Category: Society & Culture
Johnathan's Coffee-House opened by John Miles.
Related Links:
- Johnathan's Coffee-House
Siege of Derry Begins Williamite War
Year: 1688
Category: Warfare & Military
The Siege of Derry, the first major event in the Williamite War in Ireland.
Related Links:
- Siege of Derry
- Williamite War in Ireland
Tags: Siege, Warfare, Religious Conflict, Christianity, Catholicism
Dutch Invasion of England and the Rise of a Constitutional Monarchy
Year: 1688
Category: Politics
1689: The Glorious Revolution starts with the Dutch Republic invading England, England becomes a constitutional monarchy.
Related Links:
Tags: Glorious Revolution, Constitutional Monarchy, Dutch Republic, William of Orange, James II, Monarchy, Parliament, Political Reform
Grand Alliance Formation to Counter French Expansion
Year: 1688
Category: Warfare & Military
1697: The Grand Alliance sought to stop French expansion during the Nine Years' War.
Related Links:
- Grand Alliance
- Nine Years' War
Tags: French Expansionism, Military Alliances, European Politics, Balance of Power, Louis XIV, Warfare
Siege of Derry
Year: 1688
Category: Warfare & Military
The Siege of Derry.
Related Links:
- Siege of Derry
Tags: Warfare, Siege, Religious Conflict, Christianity, Catholicism, James II, Glorious Revolution
Jacobite Victory at the Battle of Killiecrankie
Year: 1689
Category: Warfare & Military
The Battle of Killiecrankie is fought between Jacobite and Williamite forces in Highland Perthshire.
Related Links:
Tags: Jacobites, Scottish History, British Isles, Battle, Military Conflict, William of Orange
Bill of Rights Enacted in England
Year: 1689
Category: Politics
Bill of Rights gains royal consent.
Related Links:
- Bill of Rights
Tags: Bill of Rights, Monarchy, Parliament, Constitutionalism, Glorious Revolution, Limited Government, Political Reform
William and Mary Crowned as Monarchs
Year: 1689
Category: Politics
William and Mary ascend to the throne over England, Scotland, and Ireland.
Related Links:
- William
- Mary
Tags: Glorious Revolution, Monarchy, William of Orange, Parliament, Constitutional Monarchy, Succession
Williamite Victory at the Battle of the Boyne
Year: 1690
Category: Warfare & Military
The Battle of the Boyne in Ireland.
Related Links:
- Battle of the Boyne
Tags: Warfare, Military History, William of Orange, James II, Christianity, Catholicism, Religious Conflict
Founding of the Bank of England
Year: 1694
Category: Economy & Trade
The Bank of England is established.
Related Links:
- Bank of England
Tags: Banking, Finance, Credit, Monetary Policy, Mercantilism, Economic Development, William III
Death of Queen Mary II of England
Year: 1694
Category: Politics
Mary II of England dies.
Related Links:
- Mary II of England
Tags: Queen, Succession, William III, Glorious Revolution, Monarchy
Peter the Great's European Grand Embassy Begins
Year: 1697
Category: Politics
1699: Grand Embassy of Peter the Great to Western Europe.
Related Links:
- Grand Embassy of Peter the Great
Tags: Peter the Great, Diplomacy, Westernization, Modernization, Foreign Policy, Travel, European History
First Known First-Class Cricket Match
Year: 1697
Category: Society & Culture
The earliest known first-class cricket match takes place in Sussex.
Related Links:
- cricket
- Sussex
Tags: Sports, Leisure, Social History
Thomas Savery Invents Steam-Powered Water Pump
Year: 1698
Category: Technology
Thomas Savery develops a steam-powered water pump: for draining mines
Related Links:
- Thomas Savery
- steam-powered water pump
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Steam Engine, Mining, Mechanical Engineering, Energy
Thomas Savery Demonstrates Steam Engine to Royal Society
Year: 1699
Category: Technology
Thomas Savery demonstrates his first steam engine to the Royal Society.
Related Links:
Tags: Steam Engine, Industrial Revolution, Scientific Revolution, Royal Society, Energy
Outbreak of the War of the Spanish Succession
Year: 1701
Category: Warfare & Military
1714: The War of the Spanish Succession is fought, involving most of continental Europe.
Related Links:
- War of the Spanish Succession
- Europe
Tags: Warfare, European History, Succession, Military Conflict, Great Powers, Louis XIV
First Daily Newspapers Launched in England
Year: 1701
Category: Society & Culture
1702: The Daily Courant and The Norwich Post become the first daily newspapers in England.
Related Links:
- The Daily Courant
Tags: Media, Information, Communication, Literacy, Society
Act of Union Establishes the Kingdom of Great Britain
Year: 1707
Category: Politics
The Act of Union is passed, merging the Scottish and English Parliaments, thus establishing the Kingdom of Great Britain.
Related Links:
- Act of Union
- Kingdom of Great Britain
Tags: Union, Political History, British Isles, Parliament, Monarchy, Governance
East India Companies Merge into the United East India Company
Year: 1708
Category: Economy & Trade
The Company of Merchants of London Trading into the East Indies and English Company Trading to the East Indies merge to form the United Company of Merchants of England Trading to the East Indies.
Related Links:
- Company of Merchants of London Trading into the East Indies
Tags: East India Company, British Empire, Colonialism, Trade, Mercantilism, Globalization
Statute of Anne Implements Copyright Law
Year: 1710
Category: Society & Culture
The world's first copyright legislation, Britain's Statute of Anne, takes effect.
Related Links:
- copyright legislation
- Statute of Anne
Tags: Copyright, Intellectual Property, Literature, Publishing, Legal History, Enlightenment
Tuning Fork Invention
Year: 1711
Category: Technology
Tuning fork was invented by John Shore
Related Links:
- Tuning fork
- John Shore
Tags: Inventions, Music, Sound, Instrumentation
Newcomen's Steam Engine Development
Year: 1712
Category: Technology
Steam engine invented by Thomas Newcomen
Related Links:
- Steam engine
- Thomas Newcomen
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Steam Power, Mining, Energy
Thomas Newcomen Builds the First Commercial Steam Engine
Year: 1712
Category: Technology
Thomas Newcomen builds the first commercial steam engine to pump water out of mines. Newcomen's engine, unlike Thomas Savery's, uses a piston.
Related Links:
- Thomas Newcomen
- Thomas Savery
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Steam Engine, Mining, Energy
End of the War of the Spanish Succession and Treaty of Utrecht
Year: 1713
Category: Politics
The Treaty of Utrecht until War of the Spanish Succession ended after treaties of Rastatt and Baden were established in 1913 after a new British Government led to a withdrawal of troops by their subsidiaries.
Related Links:
- Treaty of Utrecht
- War of the Spanish Succession
Tags: Treaty, Warfare, Succession, Diplomacy, European History, Balance of Power, Spanish Empire
George I Ascends to the British Throne
Year: 1714
Category: Politics
Accession of George I, Elector of Hanover, to the throne of Great Britain.
Related Links:
- George I
Tags: Monarchy, Succession, British History, Constitutional Monarchy, Political Transition
Jacobite Rising and Battles of Sheriffmuir and Preston
Year: 1715
Category: Warfare & Military
The first Jacobite rising breaks out; the British halt the Jacobite advance at the Battle of Sheriffmuir; Battle of Preston.
Related Links:
Tags: Jacobites, British History, Scottish History, Military Conflict, Rebellion, Battle
Edmond Halley Tests Diving Bell
Year: 1717
Category: Technology
Diving bell was successfully tested by Edmond Halley, sustainable to a depth of 55 ft
Related Links:
- Diving bell
- Edmond Halley
Tags: Scientific Revolution, Oceanography
Triple Alliance Formed by Netherlands, Britain, and France
Year: 1717
Category: Politics
The Netherlands, Britain and France sign the Triple Alliance.
Related Links:
- Triple Alliance
Tags: Alliance, Diplomacy, International Relations, European History, Political Alliances, War of the Quadruple Alliance
Outbreak of the War of the Quadruple Alliance
Year: 1718
Category: Warfare & Military
1720: War of the Quadruple Alliance with Spain versus France, Britain, Austria, and the Netherlands.
Related Links:
- War of the Quadruple Alliance
Tags: War of the Quadruple Alliance, European History, International Relations, Spanish Empire, Military Conflict, Balance of Power
Spanish-Jacobite Invasion Attempt Fails
Year: 1719
Category: Warfare & Military
The Spanish attempt to restart the Jacobite rebellion fails.
Related Links:
- Jacobite rebellion
Tags: Spanish Empire, Military History, War of the Quadruple Alliance, Invasion, Rebellion
The South Sea Bubble Burst
Year: 1720
Category: Economy & Trade
The South Sea Bubble.
Related Links:
- South Sea Bubble
Tags: Financial Crisis, Stock Market, Speculation, Investment, Economic History, Fraud
Robert Walpole's Premiership Begins in Great Britain
Year: 1721
Category: Politics
Robert Walpole becomes the first Prime Minister of Great Britain (de facto).
Related Links:
Tags: Prime Minister, British Politics, Constitutional Monarchy, Political Development
William Wood's Halfpence Controversy and the Drapier's Letters
Year: 1722
Category: Economy & Trade
1725: Controversy over William Wood's halfpence leads to the Drapier's Letters and begins the Irish economic independence from England movement.
Related Links:
- William Wood
- Drapier's Letters
Tags: Economic History, Colonialism, Irish History, Currency, Protests, Political Protest, Jonathan Swift
Anglo-Spanish War Ends in Stalemate
Year: 1727
Category: Warfare & Military
1729: Anglo-Spanish War ends inconclusively.
Related Links:
- Anglo-Spanish War
Tags: Warfare, Colonialism, Maritime Conflict, Trade, Imperialism
Wesley Brothers Initiate Methodism
Year: 1729
Category: Religion
1735: Charles Wesley and John Wesley begin Methodism in England.
Related Links:
Tags: Christianity, Religious Revival, Great Awakening
The First Great Awakening
Year: 1730
Category: Religion
1760: The First Great Awakening takes place in Great Britain and North America.
Related Links:
- First Great Awakening
Tags: Religious Revival, Christianity, Evangelicalism, Religious Reform, George Whitefield, Colonial America, Social Impact
War of the Polish Succession Begins
Year: 1733
Category: Warfare & Military
1738: War of the Polish Succession.
Related Links:
- War of the Polish Succession
Tags: Warfare, European History, Succession, Diplomacy, International Relations, Military Conflict
John Kay Invents the Flying Shuttle
Year: 1733
Category: Technology
Flying shuttle invented by John Kay
Related Links:
- Flying shuttle
- John Kay
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Textile Industry, Manufacturing
Lewis Paul and John Wyatt Invent Mechanized Cotton Spinning Machine
Year: 1738
Category: Technology
Lewis Paul and John Wyatt invent the first mechanized cotton spinning machine.
Related Links:
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Textile Industry, Manufacturing
War of Jenkins' Ear Begins
Year: 1739
Category: Warfare & Military
Great Britain and Spain fight the War of Jenkins' Ear in the Caribbean.
Related Links:
- War of Jenkins' Ear
Tags: Colonialism, Imperialism, Warfare, Trade, Military Conflict, Maritime History
End of the War of the Austrian Succession
Year: 1740
Category: Warfare & Military
1748: War of the Austrian Succession.
Related Links:
- War of the Austrian Succession
Tags: Warfare, European History, Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, Dynastic Conflict, Imperialism, Diplomacy, Frederick the Great
First Water-Powered Cotton Mill Opens
Year: 1742
Category: Technology
Marvel's Mill, the first water-powered cotton mill, begins operation in England.
Related Links:
- Marvel's Mill
- cotton mill
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Textile Industry, Manufacturing, Economy
Anglo-Spanish Naval Battle off Toulon
Year: 1744
Category: Warfare & Military
Battle of Toulon is fought off the coast of France.
Related Links:
- Battle of Toulon
Tags: Naval Warfare, War of the Austrian Succession, Anglo-Spanish War, Mediterranean Sea, Royal Navy, Battle
Publication of *A Little Pretty Pocket-Book*
Year: 1744
Category: Society & Culture
A Little Pretty Pocket-Book becomes one of the first books marketed for children
Related Links:
- A Little Pretty Pocket-Book
- books marketed for children
Tags: Children's Literature, Education, Literacy, Printing Press, Social History
French-Backed Jacobite Invasion Attempt Fails
Year: 1744
Category: Warfare & Military
The French attempt to restart the Jacobite rebellion fails.
Related Links:
- Jacobite rebellion
Tags: Military History, War of the Austrian Succession, Monarchy, Political Intrigue
Second Jacobite Rising Begins in Scotland
Year: 1745
Category: Warfare & Military
Second Jacobite rising is begun by Charles Edward Stuart in Scotland.
Related Links:
- Second Jacobite rising
- Charles Edward Stuart
Tags: Warfare, British History, Monarchy, Rebellion, Military
John Roebuck Develops the Lead Chamber Process for Sulfuric Acid Production
Year: 1746
Category: Technology
John Roebuck invents the lead chamber process.
Related Links:
- John Roebuck
- lead chamber process
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Chemistry, Manufacturing, Early Technology
Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle Ends War of Austrian Succession and First Carnatic War
Year: 1748
Category: Warfare & Military
The Treaty of Aix-La-Chapelle ends the War of the Austrian Succession and First Carnatic War.
Related Links:
- Treaty of Aix-La-Chapelle
Tags: Treaty, War of the Austrian Succession, Diplomacy, Colonialism, Imperialism
Great Britain Adopts Gregorian Calendar, Skips Days
Year: 1752
Category: Society & Culture
The British Empire adopts the Gregorian Calendar, skipping 11 days from 3 September to 13 September. On the calendar, 2 September is followed directly by 14 September.
Related Links:
- British Empire
- Gregorian Calendar
Tags: Calendar Reform, Gregorian Calendar, British Empire, Timekeeping, Cultural Change, Scientific Revolution, Society, Standardization
William Cullen Develops First Artificial Refrigeration Machine
Year: 1755
Category: Technology
William Cullen invents the first artificial refrigeration machine.
Related Links:
- William Cullen
- refrigeration
Tags: Mechanical Engineering
Seven Years' War Begins
Year: 1756
Category: Warfare & Military
1763: The Seven Years' War is fought among European powers in various theaters around the world.
Related Links:
- Seven Years' War
Tags: Warfare, Colonialism, Global Conflict, Great Powers, Imperialism, Diplomacy, Military Strategy, Frederick the Great
George III Ascends the British Throne
Year: 1760
Category: Politics
George III becomes King of Britain.
Related Links:
- George III
Tags: Monarchy, British Empire, Succession, American Revolution
John Joseph Merlin Invents Roller Skates
Year: 1760
Category: Technology
John Joseph Merlin invents the first Roller skates.
Related Links:
- John Joseph Merlin
- Roller skates
Tags: Transportation, Recreation, Sport
Harrison's Chronometer Solves Longitude Problem
Year: 1761
Category: Technology
The problem of longitude was finally resolved by the fourth chronometer of John Harrison
Related Links:
Tags: Navigation, Maritime History, Scientific Innovation, Exploration, Age of Exploration, Measurement
Treaty of Paris Concludes Seven Years' War and Third Carnatic War
Year: 1763
Category: Warfare & Military
The Treaty of Paris ends the Seven Years' War and Third Carnatic War.
Related Links:
- Treaty of Paris
Tags: Treaty, Seven Years' War, British Empire, French Empire, Colonialism, Imperialism, Diplomacy, Global Conflict
James Hargreaves Invents the Spinning Jenny
Year: 1764
Category: Technology
James Hargreaves invents the spinning jenny.
Related Links:
- James Hargreaves
- spinning jenny
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Textile Industry, Manufacturing, Mechanization
British Parliament Passes the Stamp Act
Year: 1765
Category: Politics
The Stamp Act is introduced into the American colonies by the British Parliament.
Related Links:
- Stamp Act
- American colonies
Tags: Colonialism, Taxation, British Empire, American Revolution, Parliament, Protest, Representation
Watt's Steam Engine Enhancement and Steel Technology Advancement
Year: 1765
Category: Technology
James Watt enhances Newcomen's steam engine, allowing new steel technologies
Related Links:
- James Watt
- steel
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Steam Engine, James Watt, Steel Production, Manufacturing
James Watt Develops Improved Steam Engine
Year: 1765
Category: Technology
James Watt invents the improved steam engine utilizing a separate condenser.
Related Links:
- James Watt
- steam engine
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Steam Engine, James Watt, Manufacturing, Energy
Imperial Leather Commissioned by Count Orlov
Year: 1768
Category: Society & Culture
Imperial Leather commissioned by Count Orlov.
Related Links:
- Imperial Leather
- Count Orlov
Tags: Luxury Goods, Consumerism, Trade, Manufacturing, Social History
Richard Salter Designs the First Weighing Scale
Year: 1770
Category: Technology
Richard Salter invents the earliest known design for a weighing scale.
Related Links:
- Richard Salter
- weighing scale
Tags: Measurement, Industrial Revolution, Trade
Arkwright's Water-Powered Mill at Cromford Established
Year: 1771
Category: Technology
Richard Arkwright and his partners build the world's first water-powered mill at Cromford.
Related Links:
- Richard Arkwright
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Textile Industry, Manufacturing
John Wilkinson's Boring Machine Invention
Year: 1774
Category: Technology
John Wilkinson invents his boring machine, considered by some to be the first machine tool.
Related Links:
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Machine Tools, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering
Outbreak of the American Revolutionary War
Year: 1775
Category: Warfare & Military
1783: American Revolutionary War.
Related Links:
- American Revolutionary War
Tags: American Revolution, Warfare, Colonialism, Independence, Military Conflict, Political Upheaval
Jesse Ramsden Invents the Modern Screw-Cutting Lathe
Year: 1775
Category: Technology
Jesse Ramsden invents the modern screw-cutting lathe.
Related Links:
- Jesse Ramsden
- screw-cutting lathe
Tags: Manufacturing, Industrial Revolution, Precision, Machine Tools, Mechanization
Declaration of Independence Adopted
Year: 1776
Category: Politics
The United States Declaration of Independence is adopted by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia.
Related Links:
Tags: American Revolution, Independence, Declaration, Enlightenment, Thomas Jefferson
Adam Smith Publishes The Wealth of Nations
Year: 1776
Category: Economy & Trade
Adam Smith publishes The Wealth of Nations.
Related Links:
- Adam Smith
- The Wealth of Nations
Tags: Economics, Capitalism, Industrial Revolution, Enlightenment, Trade, Global Economy
James Watt Installs Improved Steam Engines
Year: 1776
Category: Technology
First improved steam engines installed by James Watt
Related Links:
- James Watt
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Steam Engine, James Watt, Manufacturing, Energy
John Wilkinson Invents Mechanical Air Compressor
Year: 1776
Category: Technology
John Wilkinson invents a mechanical air compressor that would become the prototype for all later mechanical compressors.
Related Links:
- John Wilkinson
- air compressor
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Mechanical Engineering, Inventions, Mining, Manufacturing
Robert Barron Invents the Lever Tumbler Lock
Year: 1778
Category: Technology
Robert Barron invents the first lever tumbler lock.
Related Links:
- Robert Barron
- lever tumbler lock
Tags: Security, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Revolution
John Newton Publishes 'Amazing Grace'
Year: 1779
Category: Religion
Amazing Grace published by John Newton
Related Links:
- Amazing Grace
- John Newton
Tags: Christianity, Religious Music, Evangelicalism, Slavery, Global Impact
Treaty of Paris Officially Ends American Revolutionary War
Year: 1783
Category: Politics
The Treaty of Paris formally ends the American Revolutionary War.
Related Links:
- Treaty of Paris
- American Revolutionary War
Tags: American Revolution, Treaties, Diplomacy, Independence, Warfare, Nationalism
Edmund Cartwright Invents the Power Loom
Year: 1785
Category: Technology
Power loom invented by Edmund Cartwright
Related Links:
- Power loom
- Edmund Cartwright
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Textile Industry, Mechanization, Manufacturing, Economic History
Andrew Meikle Invents the Threshing Machine
Year: 1786
Category: Technology
Threshing machine invented by Andrew Meikle
Related Links:
- Threshing machine
- Andrew Meikle
Tags: Agriculture, Industrial Revolution
British Settlement of Sydney
Year: 1788
Category: Politics
First permanent European settlement established in Australia by Britain at Sydney.
Tags: Colonialism, British Empire, Exploration, Settlement, New South Wales, Indigenous Australians
Great Britain and Spain Dispute Over Nootka Sound
Year: 1789
Category: Politics
Great Britain and Spain dispute the Nootka Sound during the Nootka Crisis.
Related Links:
- Nootka Sound
- Nootka Crisis
Tags: Imperialism, Colonialism, Territorial Disputes, Diplomacy, Pacific Northwest, Trade, British Empire, Spanish Empire, Exploration
Thomas Saint Patents the Sewing Machine
Year: 1790
Category: Technology
Thomas Saint invents the sewing machine.
Related Links:
- Thomas Saint
- sewing machine
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Inventions, Textiles, Manufacturing, Patents
Birth of Margaret Ann Neve, the First Recorded Female Supercentenarian
Year: 1792
Category: Society & Culture
Margaret Ann Neve (1792–1903) would become the first recorded female supercentenarian to reach the age of 110.
Related Links:
- Margaret Ann Neve
- supercentenarian
Tags: Longevity, Demographics, Births
Jay's Treaty Signed: US and Britain Regulate Commerce and Resolve Territorial Disputes
Year: 1794
Category: Politics
Jay's Treaty is concluded between Great Britain and the United States, by which the Western outposts in the Great Lakes are returned to the U.S. and commerce between the two countries is regulated.
Related Links:
- Jay's Treaty
- Great Lakes
Tags: Treaty, Diplomacy, International Relations, Commerce, Territorial Disputes, Early Republic, George Washington
Joseph Bramah Invents the Hydraulic Press
Year: 1795
Category: Technology
Joseph Bramah invents the hydraulic press.
Related Links:
- Joseph Bramah
- hydraulic press
Tags: Manufacturing, Industrial Revolution, Mechanical Engineering
British Takeover of Dutch Colonies in Ceylon and South Africa
Year: 1796
Category: Warfare & Military
The British eject the Dutch from Ceylon and South Africa.
Related Links:
- Ceylon
- South Africa
Tags: British Empire, Dutch Empire, Colonialism, Military History, Napoleonic Wars, Imperialism, Ceylon, Cape Colony, East India Company, Warfare
Samuel Bentham Invents Plywood
Year: 1797
Category: Technology
Samuel Bentham invents plywood.
Related Links:
- Samuel Bentham
- plywood
Tags: Woodworking, Manufacturing, Industrial Revolution
Irish Rebellion Defeated
Year: 1798
Category: Warfare & Military
The Irish Rebellion fails to overthrow British rule in Ireland.
Related Links:
- Irish Rebellion
- British rule in Ireland
Tags: Rebellion, Irish History, British Empire, Insurgency, Warfare, Nationalism, Revolution, Conflict
George Medhurst Invents the First Motorized Air Compressor
Year: 1799
Category: Technology
George Medhurst invents the first motorized air compressor.
Related Links:
- George Medhurst
- air compressor
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing
Union of Great Britain and Ireland
Year: 1801
Category: Politics
The Kingdom of Great Britain and the Kingdom of Ireland merge to form the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
Tags: British Empire, Nationalism, Political Consolidation, Irish History, Legislation
British Victory at the Second Battle of Abukir
Year: 1801
Category: Warfare & Military
British defeat French at the Second Battle of Abukir.
Related Links:
- Battle of Abukir
Tags: Napoleonic Wars, Military History, British Empire, French Empire, Battle, Colonialism, Naval Warfare
Treaty of Amiens Ends War of the Second Coalition
Year: 1802
Category: Warfare & Military
Treaty of Amiens between France and the United Kingdom ends the War of the Second Coalition.
Related Links:
- Treaty of Amiens
- War of the Second Coalition
Tags: Treaty, Napoleonic Wars, Peace Treaty, Diplomacy, Military History
William Cobbett Launches the Political Register
Year: 1802
Category: Politics
William Cobbett begins weekly Political Register
Related Links:
- William Cobbett
- Political Register
Tags: Journalism, Radicalism, Freedom of the Press
Humphry Davy Develops the Arc Lamp
Year: 1802
Category: Technology
Humphry Davy invents the arc lamp (exact date unclear; not practical as a light source until the invention of efficient electric generators).
Related Links:
- Humphry Davy
- arc lamp
Tags: Electricity, Lighting, Experimentation, Industrial Revolution
Napoleonic Wars Renewed
Year: 1803
Category: Warfare & Military
War resumes between Britain and France; this is a renewal of the Napoleonic Wars after a short peace.
Related Links:
- Napoleonic Wars
Tags: Napoleonic Wars, Military History, Warfare, Continental System, Napoleon Bonaparte, European History, Imperialism
William Symington's Charlotte Dundas: First Practical Steamboat Demonstration
Year: 1803
Category: Technology
William Symington demonstrates his Charlotte Dundas, the "first practical steamboat".
Related Links:
- William Symington
- Charlotte Dundas
Tags: Transportation, Industrial Revolution
First Operational Steam Locomotive
Year: 1804
Category: Technology
First steam locomotive begins operation.
Related Links:
- steam locomotive
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Transportation, Steam Power
British and Foreign Bible Society Established
Year: 1804
Category: Religion
British and Foreign Bible Society founded by William Wilberforce and Thomas Charles
Related Links:
Tags: Christianity, Bible, Evangelicalism, Literacy, Missionary Work, Social Reform
Richard Trevithick Develops the First Steam Locomotive
Year: 1804
Category: Technology
Richard Trevithick invents the steam locomotive.
Related Links:
- Richard Trevithick
- steam locomotive
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Steam Power, Transportation
Third Coalition Declares War on Napoleonic France
Year: 1805
Category: Warfare & Military
Third Coalition mobilizes against France.
Related Links:
- Third Coalition
Tags: Napoleonic Wars, Coalition Wars, Military History, Warfare
British Naval Victory at Trafalgar
Year: 1805
Category: Warfare & Military
The Battle of Trafalgar, British victory by Admiral Nelson eliminates the French and Spanish fleets. Begins Royal Navy dominance of the seas, a major factor for the success of the British Empire.
Related Links:
Tags: Naval Warfare, Napoleonic Wars, British Empire, Royal Navy, Maritime History, Geopolitics, Imperialism
Britain and the United States Criminalize the Slave Trade
Year: 1807
Category: Politics
Britain and the United States separately make the Slave Trade a criminal act.
Related Links:
- Britain
- United States
Tags: Slavery, Abolition, Transatlantic Slave Trade, Legislation, Human Rights
Russia and France Sign Treaty of Tilsit
Year: 1807
Category: Politics
First treaty of Tilsit: Russia allies with France against Britain in the War of the Fourth Coalition
Related Links:
- First treaty of Tilsit
- War of the Fourth Coalition
Tags: Napoleonic Wars, Treaty, Alliance, Diplomacy, Napoleon Bonaparte
Napoleon's Milan Decree Intensifies Continental System
Year: 1807
Category: Economy & Trade
Napoleon's Milan Decree reinforces Continental System and escalates the trade war.
Related Links:
- Milan Decree
- Continental System
Tags: Napoleonic Wars, Continental System, Blockade, Napoleon Bonaparte
British Bombardment of Copenhagen and Seizure of the Danish Fleet
Year: 1807
Category: Warfare & Military
Royal Navy bombards Copenhagen and seizes Danish fleet.
Related Links:
- bombards Copenhagen and seizes Danish fleet
Tags: Napoleonic Wars, Royal Navy, Naval Warfare, British Empire, Siege, Military Strategy, Blockade
Spanish Guerrilla Warfare Begins in the Peninsular War
Year: 1808
Category: Warfare & Military
1808–1814: Spanish guerrillas fight in the Peninsular War.
Related Links:
Tags: Guerrilla Warfare, Napoleonic Wars, Military History, Resistance Movements
War of 1812 Begins
Year: 1812
Category: Warfare & Military
1812–1815: War of 1812 between the United States and Britain; ends in a draw, except that Native Americans lose power.
Related Links:
- War of 1812
Tags: Warfare, Nationalism, Territorial Disputes
Assassination of British Prime Minister Spencer Perceval
Year: 1812
Category: Politics
British Prime Minister Spencer Perceval is assassinated.
Related Links:
- Spencer Perceval is assassinated
Tags: Assassination, British Politics, Prime Minister, Political Violence, Napoleonic Wars
British Economic Depression and Luddite Riots
Year: 1812
Category: Economy & Trade
Great Britain experiences widespread economic distress; worst year of Luddite rioting.
Related Links:
- Luddite
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Social Unrest, Textile Industry, Working Class
William Reid Clanny Develops Safety Lamp
Year: 1812
Category: Technology
William Reid Clanny pioneered the invention of the safety lamp which he improved in later years. Safety lamps based on Clanny's improved design were used until the adoption of electric lamps.
Related Links:
- William Reid Clanny
- safety lamp
Tags: Mining, Safety, Industrial Revolution
Puffing Billy Demonstrates Power of Steam Locomotives
Year: 1813
Category: Technology
William Hedley's Puffing Billy demonstrates power of steam locomotives.
Related Links:
- William Hedley
- Puffing Billy
Tags: Steam Engine, Transportation, Industrial Revolution, Mining
Elisha Collier Develops the Flintlock Revolver
Year: 1814
Category: Warfare & Military
Elisha Collier invents the flintlock revolver.
Related Links:
Tags: Weapons, Firearms, Military Technology
Invention of the Modern Planing Machine
Year: 1814
Category: Technology
James Fox invents the modern planing machine, though Matthew Murray of Leeds and Richard Roberts of Manchester have also been credited at times with its invention.
Related Links:
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Manufacturing
Congress of Vienna Redraws European Map
Year: 1815
Category: Politics
The Congress of Vienna redraws the European map. Reaction and conservatism dominate all of Europe. The Concert of Europe attempts to preserve this settlement, but the forces of liberalism and nationalism make for dramatic changes. It marks the beginning of a Pax Britannica which lasts until 1914.
Related Links:
Tags: Restoration, Conservatism, Nationalism, Liberalism, Geopolitics, European History
Napoleon's Return, Hundred Days, and Waterloo Defeat
Year: 1815
Category: Warfare & Military
Napoleon escapes exile and begins the Hundred Days before finally being defeated at the Battle of Waterloo and exiled to St Helena. His defeat brings a conclusion to the Napoleonic Wars.
Related Links:
Tags: Napoleonic Wars, French Empire, Napoleon Bonaparte, Exile, Military History, European History, Coalition Wars
Invention of the Dandy Horse
Year: 1816
Category: Technology
Dandy horse/velocipede bicycle invented.
Related Links:
- Dandy horse
Tags: Transportation, Mechanical Engineering
Francis Ronalds Constructs the First Working Electric Telegraph
Year: 1816
Category: Technology
Francis Ronalds builds the first working electric telegraph using electrostatic means.
Related Links:
Tags: Telegraphy, Communication, Electricity, Scientific Revolution, Information Technology
Robert Stirling Patents the Stirling Engine
Year: 1816
Category: Technology
Robert Stirling invents the Stirling engine.
Related Links:
- Robert Stirling
- Stirling engine
Tags: Engine, Thermodynamics, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Revolution
Princess Charlotte of Wales Dies in Childbirth
Year: 1817
Category: Society & Culture
Princess Charlotte of Wales dies following childbirth.
Related Links:
- Princess Charlotte of Wales
Tags: Monarchy, Succession
Marc Isambard Brunel Invents the Tunnelling Shield
Year: 1818
Category: Technology
Marc Isambard Brunel invents the tunnelling shield.
Related Links:
- Marc Isambard Brunel
- tunnelling shield
Tags: Construction, Infrastructure, Transportation, Industrial Revolution
British Cavalry Attacks Peaceful Protest at St Peter's Field
Year: 1819
Category: Politics
Peterloo Massacre in England.
Related Links:
- Peterloo Massacre
Tags: Political Protest, Social Reform, Cavalry, Violence, Human Rights, British History, Radicalism
Child Labor Exploitation Intensifies in Industrial Revolution
Year: 1820
Category: Society & Culture
1820–1842: In the Industrial Revolution child labor was exploited more than ever, especially in cotton factories and mines.
Related Links:
- Industrial Revolution
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Exploitation, Mining, Social Inequality, Working Class, Economic History
Faraday and Stoddart Discover Stainless Steel
Year: 1820
Category: Technology
Michael Faraday and James Stoddart discover alloying iron with chromium produces a stainless steel resistant to oxidising elements (rust).
Related Links:
Tags: Metallurgy, Chemistry, Materials Science, Industrial Revolution, Michael Faraday, Steel
Napoleon Bonaparte's Death in Exile
Year: 1821
Category: Politics
Napoleon Bonaparte dies in exile on the island of Saint Helena.
Related Links:
- Napoleon Bonaparte
- Saint Helena
Tags: Napoleon Bonaparte, Exile, French Empire, European History, Leadership, Legacy
Charles Babbage Begins Construction of the Difference Engine
Year: 1822
Category: Technology
Charles Babbage, considered the "father of the computer", begins building the first programmable mechanical computer.
Related Links:
Tags: Computer Science, Mechanical Computer, Industrial Revolution, Algorithms
Monroe Doctrine Declared
Year: 1823
Category: Politics
Monroe Doctrine declared by US President James Monroe in cooperation with Britain.
Related Links:
- Monroe Doctrine
- James Monroe
Tags: US Foreign Policy, Diplomacy, Imperialism, American Expansionism
Cadbury Opens Chocolate Shop
Year: 1824
Category: Economy & Trade
Cadbury opens a chocolate shop in Birmingham, England.
Related Links:
- Cadbury
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Food Industry, Business, Consumerism
William Sturgeon Invents the Electromagnet
Year: 1824
Category: Technology
William Sturgeon invents the electromagnet.
Related Links:
- William Sturgeon
- electromagnet
Tags: Electricity, Magnetism, Physics, Industrial Revolution
Joseph Aspdin Develops Portland Cement
Year: 1824
Category: Technology
Joseph Aspdin develops Portland cement (concrete), by heating ground limestone, clay and gypsum, in a kiln.
Related Links:
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Construction, Materials Science, Concrete
Stockton and Darlington Railway Opens
Year: 1825
Category: Technology
The Stockton and Darlington Railway, the first public railway in the world, opens in England.
Related Links:
- Stockton and Darlington Railway
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Transportation, Railways, Economic Development
Founding of University College London
Year: 1826
Category: Society & Culture
1826–1829: Founding of University College London in 1826 and King's College London in 1829.
Related Links:
- University College London
- King's College London
Tags: Education, Universities, Higher Education, Intellectual History, Social Reform
Robert Peel's Criminal Law and Property Reforms
Year: 1826
Category: Society & Culture
Prime Minister Robert Peel reforms English criminal law and redefines law of property;
Related Links:
- Robert Peel
- criminal law
Tags: Criminal Justice, Legal Reform, Robert Peel, Social Reform, British Empire
John Walker Invents the Friction Match
Year: 1826
Category: Technology
John Walker invents the friction match.
Related Links:
- John Walker
- match
Tags: Inventions, Industrial Revolution, Chemistry, Lighting, Consumer Goods
James Sharp Invents the First Practical Gas Stove
Year: 1826
Category: Technology
James Sharp invents and goes on to manufacture the first practical gas stove.
Related Links:
- gas stove
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Domestic Life
Allied Naval Victory at Navarino and Greek Independence Guarantee
Year: 1827
Category: Warfare & Military
Allies destroy Turkish fleet at the Battle of Navarino. With the Treaty of London, Britain, France and Russia guarantee the independence of Greece.
Related Links:
- Battle of Navarino
- Treaty of London
Tags: Naval Warfare, Ottoman Empire, Great Powers, Independence Movements, Geopolitics
Repeal of Test & Corporation Acts in Britain
Year: 1828
Category: Politics
Prime Minister Robert Peel secures repeal of Test & Corporation Acts, This gives religious liberty to Nonconformists in Britain but deeply splits Tory party.
Related Links:
- Test & Corporation Acts
Tags: Religious Freedom, Robert Peel, British Politics, Political Reform, Civil Liberties
James Beaumont Neilson Invents the Hot Blast Process
Year: 1828
Category: Technology
James Beaumont Neilson develops the hot blast process.
Related Links:
- James Beaumont Neilson
- hot blast
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Metallurgy
Patrick Bell Invents the Reaping Machine
Year: 1828
Category: Technology
Patrick Bell invents the reaping machine.
Related Links:
- Patrick Bell
- reaping machine
Tags: Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Revolution, Agriculture
Construction of the First Practical Electric Motor
Year: 1829
Category: Technology
First electric motor built.
Related Links:
- electric motor
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Electricity, Michael Faraday
Metropolitan Police Service Established
Year: 1829
Category: Society & Culture
Robert Peel founds the Metropolitan Police Service, the first modern police force.
Related Links:
- Robert Peel
- Metropolitan Police Service
Tags: Law Enforcement, Robert Peel, Crime, Social Reform, Governance, Modernization
Patent Awarded for Corrugated Galvanized Iron
Year: 1829
Category: Technology
Henry Robinson Palmer is awarded a patent for corrugated galvanised iron.
Related Links:
- Henry Robinson Palmer
- corrugated galvanised iron
Tags: Patent, Industrial Revolution, Metalworking
Inauguration of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway
Year: 1830
Category: Technology
Opening of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway.
Related Links:
- Opening of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Transportation, Railways, Economic Development
Anglo-Russian Rivalry in Afghanistan Begins
Year: 1830
Category: Politics
Anglo-Russian rivalry over Afghanistan, the Great Game, commences and concludes in 1895.
Related Links:
- the Great Game
Tags: Great Game, Imperialism, Geopolitics, Colonialism, British Empire, Russian Empire, Diplomacy
Edwin Budding Invents the Lawn Mower
Year: 1830
Category: Technology
Edwin Budding invents the lawn mower.
Related Links:
- Edwin Budding
- lawn mower
Tags: Inventions, Industrial Revolution, Mechanical Engineering, Agriculture
British Parliament Passes the Great Reform Act
Year: 1832
Category: Politics
The British Parliament passes the Great Reform Act.
Related Links:
- Great Reform Act
Tags: Political Reform, Parliament, Suffrage, Voting Rights, Democracy
British Poor Law Amendment Mandates Workhouse Confinement
Year: 1834
Category: Society & Culture
Britain amends the Poor Law demanding that any paupers requesting assistance must go to a workhouse.
Related Links:
- workhouse
Tags: Social Reform, Poverty, Social Welfare, Industrial Revolution
Victoria Ascends the British Throne, Beginning the Victorian Era
Year: 1837
Category: Politics
1837–1901: Queen Victoria reigns during the apex of the British Empire; this is the Victorian era.
Related Links:
Tags: British Empire, Monarchy, Queen Victoria, Imperialism, Colonialism, Global Power
Buckingham Palace Designated as Royal Residence
Year: 1837
Category: Society & Culture
Buckingham Palace becomes the official residence of the British monarch.
Related Links:
- Buckingham Palace
Tags: Monarchy, Architecture, Society
Electric Telegraph Patented
Year: 1837
Category: Technology
Telegraphy patented.
Related Links:
- Telegraphy
Tags: Communication, Samuel Morse, Telegraph, Industrial Revolution
Charles Babbage Proposes the Analytical Engine
Year: 1837
Category: Technology
Charles Babbage proposes a design for the construction of a Turing complete, general purpose Computer, to be called the Analytical Engine.
Related Links:
Tags: Computer Science, Algorithm, Mechanical Computer
Chartist Movement Emerges in Britain
Year: 1838
Category: Politics
1838–1857: Chartism a working-class reform movement in Britain.
Related Links:
- Chartism
Tags: Working Class, Political Reform, Suffrage, Social Reform, Political Activism
Belgium Officially Declared an Independent Kingdom
Year: 1839
Category: Politics
Kingdom of Belgium declared.
Related Links:
- Kingdom of Belgium
Tags: Kingdom, Independence, Nationalism, European History, Monarchy
James Nasmyth Invents the Steam Hammer
Year: 1839
Category: Technology
James Nasmyth invents the steam hammer.
Related Links:
- James Nasmyth
- steam hammer
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Steam Power, Manufacturing, Mechanization
Railway Mania in the UK and Ireland
Year: 1840
Category: Economy & Trade
1840s: Railway Mania sweeps UK and Ireland.
Related Links:
- Railway Mania
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Railways, Investment, Economic Boom, Speculation, Infrastructure, Transportation
Alexander Bain Develops the Printing Telegraph
Year: 1841
Category: Technology
Alexander Bain devises a printing telegraph.
Related Links:
- Alexander Bain
Tags: Telegraph, Communication, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Revolution
Coal Mines Act: Child and Female Labor Restrictions
Year: 1842
Category: Society & Culture
The Coal Mines Act forbade the use of boys younger than ten and women in the mines.
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Women's Rights, Social Reform, Mining
William Robert Grove Develops the First Fuel Cell
Year: 1842
Category: Technology
William Robert Grove invents the first fuel cell.
Related Links:
- William Robert Grove
- fuel cell
Tags: Electricity, Electrochemistry
John Bennet Lawes Develops Superphosphate Fertilizer
Year: 1842
Category: Technology
John Bennet Lawes invents superphosphate, the first man-made fertilizer.
Related Links:
Tags: Agriculture, Industrial Revolution, Scientific Advancement, Farming
Lunacy Act Passed in British Parliament
Year: 1845
Category: Society & Culture
Lunacy Act 1845 passes through Parliament.
Related Links:
- Lunacy Act 1845
Tags: Mental Health, Law, Social Reform, Medicine, Parliament, Public Health
Isaac Charles Johnson Invents Modern Portland Cement
Year: 1845
Category: Technology
Isaac Charles Johnson invents modern Portland cement.
Related Links:
- Isaac Charles Johnson
- Portland cement
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Construction, Materials Science, Infrastructure
Invention of the Safety Pin and Gas Mask
Year: 1849
Category: Technology
The safety pin and the gas mask are invented.
Related Links:
- safety pin
- gas mask
Tags: Inventions, Industrial Revolution, Safety, Public Health, Military Technology
William Armstrong Invents the Hydraulic Accumulator
Year: 1850
Category: Technology
William Armstrong invents the hydraulic accumulator.
Related Links:
- William Armstrong
- hydraulic accumulator
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing
The Great Exhibition Opens in London
Year: 1851
Category: Economy & Trade
The Great Exhibition in London was the world's first international Expo or World Fair.
Related Links:
- Great Exhibition
- World Fair
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Trade, International Cooperation, Exhibition, Global Trade
First Public Flush Toilets Introduced
Year: 1851
Category: Technology
George Jennings offers the first public flush toilets, accessible for a penny per visit, and in 1852 receives a UK patent for the single piece, free standing, earthenware, trap plumed, flushing, water-closet.
Related Links:
- George Jennings
Tags: Public Health, Urbanization, Infrastructure
Royal Acquisition of Balmoral Castle
Year: 1852
Category: Society & Culture
Balmoral Castle is bought by the British royal family.
Related Links:
- Balmoral Castle
Tags: Monarchy, Architecture, Land Ownership, British Empire, Social History
Crimean War Begins
Year: 1853
Category: Warfare & Military
1853–1856: Crimean War; France and Britain defend the Ottoman Empire and defeat Russia.
Related Links:
- Crimean War
- Ottoman Empire
Tags: Warfare, Geopolitics, Ottoman Empire, Imperialism, Military History
Siege of Sevastopol
Year: 1854
Category: Warfare & Military
1854–1855: Siege of Sevastapol; city falls to French and British forces.
Related Links:
- Siege of Sevastapol
Tags: Crimean War, Siege, Military History, Naval Warfare, Imperialism
Battle of Balaclava and the Charge of the Light Brigade
Year: 1854
Category: Warfare & Military
Battle of Balaclava and the Charge of the Light Brigade.
Related Links:
- Battle of Balaclava
- Charge of the Light Brigade
Tags: Crimean War, Military History, Siege Warfare, Cavalry, Russian Empire, Warfare, Battle
Bessemer Process Revolutionizes Steel Production
Year: 1855
Category: Technology
Bessemer process enables steel to be mass-produced.
Related Links:
- Bessemer process
- steel
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Steel, Metallurgy, Manufacturing, Mass Production, Economic Development
Maxwell Demonstrates Color Photography
Year: 1855
Category: Technology
James Clerk Maxwell invents the first practical method for color photography, whether chemical or electronic.
Related Links:
- James Clerk Maxwell
- color photography
Tags: Photography, Optics, James Clerk Maxwell
Bessemer Process Patented
Year: 1855
Category: Technology
Henry Bessemer patents the Bessemer process for making steel, with improvements made by others over the following years.
Related Links:
- Henry Bessemer
- Bessemer process
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Steel Production, Metallurgy, Manufacturing, Economy
Alexander Parkes Creates Celluloid
Year: 1856
Category: Technology
Alexander Parkes invents parkesine, also known as celluloid, the first man-made plastic.
Related Links:
Tags: Plastic, Materials Science, Industrial Revolution, Manufacturing, Chemical Engineering
Perkin Creates the First Synthetic Dye, Mauveine
Year: 1856
Category: Technology
William Henry Perkin invents mauveine, the first synthetic dye.
Related Links:
Tags: Chemistry, Textiles, Industrial Revolution, Manufacturing
Mushet Develops Steel Production Method
Year: 1856
Category: Technology
Robert Forester Mushet develops a process for the decarbonisation, and re-carbonisation of iron, through the addition of a calculated quantity of spiegeleisen, to produce cheap, consistently high quality steel.
Related Links:
Tags: Steel, Industrial Revolution, Metallurgy, Manufacturing, Economy
Joseph Whitworth Designs First Long-Range Sniper Rifle
Year: 1857
Category: Warfare & Military
Joseph Whitworth designs the first long-range sniper rifle.
Related Links:
- Joseph Whitworth
- sniper rifle
Tags: Military Technology, Firearms, Weapons Development, British Empire, Accuracy
Construction of the Suez Canal Begins
Year: 1859
Category: Technology
1859–1869: Suez Canal is constructed.
Related Links:
- Suez Canal
Tags: Canals, Infrastructure, Transportation, Trade, Colonialism, Globalization, Ottoman Empire
Big Ben Clock Tower Construction Completed
Year: 1859
Category: Technology
Construction of Big Ben is completed.
Related Links:
- Big Ben
Tags: Architecture, Clockmaking, Public Works, Infrastructure, Timekeeping
Joseph Swan Creates Carbon Fibers
Year: 1860
Category: Technology
Joseph Swan produces carbon fibers.
Related Links:
- Joseph Swan
- carbon fibers
Tags: Materials Science
Death of Prince Albert, Consort to Queen Victoria
Year: 1861
Category: Society & Culture
Death of Prince Albert.
Related Links:
- Prince Albert
Tags: Monarchy, Death, Queen Victoria
London Underground Opens
Year: 1863
Category: Technology
First section of the London Underground opens.
Related Links:
- London Underground
Tags: Transportation, Urbanization, Infrastructure, Industrial Revolution
Transatlantic Telegraph Cable Completed
Year: 1866
Category: Technology
Successful transatlantic telegraph cable follows an earlier attempt in 1858.
Related Links:
- transatlantic telegraph cable
Tags: Communication, Telegraph, Globalization, Infrastructure
Marquess of Queensberry Rules Standardize Boxing
Year: 1867
Category: Society & Culture
The Marquess of Queensberry Rules for boxing are published.
Related Links:
- Marquess of Queensberry Rules
- boxing
Tags: Boxing, Sports, Social Reform, Athletics, Modernization
Safety Bicycle Introduced
Year: 1868
Category: Technology
Safety bicycle invented.
Related Links:
- Safety bicycle
Tags: Transportation, Industrial Revolution, Cycling, Social Change
Public Execution of Michael Barrett in England
Year: 1868
Category: Society & Culture
Michael Barrett is the last person to be publicly hanged in England.
Related Links:
- Michael Barrett
Tags: Crime, Capital Punishment, Execution, Justice, Legal History, Criminal Justice System, Public Spectacle
Robert Mushet Develops Tungsten Steel
Year: 1868
Category: Technology
Robert Forester Mushet discovers that alloying steel with tungsten produces a harder, more durable alloy.
Related Links:
- Robert Forester Mushet
- tungsten
Tags: Steel, Metallurgy, Industrial Revolution, Manufacturing, Materials Science
Suez Canal Opens
Year: 1869
Category: Economy & Trade
The Suez Canal opens linking the Mediterranean to the Red Sea.
Related Links:
Tags: Canals, Trade Routes, Global Trade, Imperialism, Colonialism, Shipping, Infrastructure, Modernization
The Long Depression Begins
Year: 1870
Category: Economy & Trade
1870–1890: Long Depression in Western Europe and North America.
Related Links:
Tags: Depression, Economic Crisis, Global Economy, Industrial Revolution, Capitalism, Trade, Recession
Stanley Finds Livingstone
Year: 1871
Category: Society & Culture
Henry Morton Stanley meets Dr. David Livingstone near Lake Tanganyika.
Related Links:
Tags: Exploration, Colonialism, British Empire, Imperialism, Humanitarianism, Discovery
First International Soccer Match: England vs. Scotland
Year: 1872
Category: Society & Culture
The first recognised international soccer match, between England and Scotland, is played.
Related Links:
Tags: Football, Sport, International Relations, Cultural Exchange
Stainless Steel Invention and Early Commercialization
Year: 1872
Category: Technology
J.E.T. Woods and J. Clark invented stainless steel. Harry Brearley was the first to commercialize it.
Related Links:
- stainless steel
- Harry Brearley
Tags: Metallurgy, Material Science, Industrial Revolution, Steel, Manufacturing
Frederick Ransome Invents the Rotary Kiln
Year: 1873
Category: Technology
Frederick Ransome invents the rotary kiln.
Related Links:
- Frederick Ransome
- rotary kiln
Tags: Industrial Revolution, Manufacturing, Construction, Materials Science
Home Rule Movement Established in Ireland
Year: 1874
Category: Politics
The Home Rule Movement is established in Ireland.
Related Links:
- Home Rule Movement
- Ireland
Tags: Self-Government
Queen Victoria Proclaimed Empress of India
Year: 1876
Category: Politics
Queen Victoria becomes Empress of India.
Related Links:
- Queen Victoria
- Empress of India
Tags: British Empire, Imperialism, Colonialism, Queen Victoria, Governance, Political Power, Monarchy
First Test Cricket Match: England vs. Australia
Year: 1877
Category: Society & Culture
The first test cricket match, between England and Australia, is played.
Related Links:
Tags: Sports, Colonialism, International Competition, Leisure
Henry Fleuss Patents First Practical Rebreather
Year: 1878
Category: Technology
Henry Fleuss is granted a patent for the first practical rebreather.
Related Links:
- Henry Fleuss
- rebreather
Godalming Power Plant Inaugurated
Year: 1881
Category: Technology
First electrical power plant and grid in Godalming, Britain.
Related Links:
Tags: Electricity, Power Generation, Industrial Revolution
Berlin Conference: European Powers Divide Africa
Year: 1884
Category: Politics
1884–1885: The Berlin Conference signals the start of the European "scramble for Africa".
Related Links:
- Berlin Conference
- scramble for Africa
Tags: Imperialism, Colonialism, Scramble for Africa, European Expansion, Diplomacy, International Relations, Otto von Bismarck
First Electric Car Produced by Thomas Parker
Year: 1884
Category: Technology
First electric car produced by Thomas Parker in Wolverhampton.
Related Links:
- electric car
Tags: Automobile, Transportation, Industrial Revolution
Hiram Maxim Invents the Recoil-Operated Machine Gun
Year: 1884
Category: Warfare & Military
Hiram Maxim invents the recoil-operated Maxim gun, ushering in the age of semi- and fully automatic firearms.
Related Links:
Tags: Firearms, Military Technology, Industrial Revolution, Imperialism, Colonialism, Warfare, World War I
John Kemp Starley Patents the Safety Bicycle
Year: 1885
Category: Technology
John Kemp Starley invents the modern safety bicycle.
Related Links:
- John Kemp Starley
- safety bicycle
Tags: Transportation, Industrial Revolution, Urbanization
Burma Annexed into the British Empire
Year: 1886
Category: Politics
Burma is presented to Queen Victoria as a birthday gift.
Related Links:
- Burma
- Queen Victoria
Tags: British Empire, Colonialism, Imperialism, Queen Victoria, Annexation, Expansionism, Political History
James Blyth Invents First Electricity-Generating Wind Turbine
Year: 1887
Category: Technology
James Blyth invents the first wind turbine used for generating electricity.
Related Links:
- James Blyth
- wind turbine
Tags: Renewable Energy, Wind Power, Industrial Revolution, Energy
Lawn Tennis Association Established
Year: 1888
Category: Society & Culture
Lawn Tennis Association founded in London
Related Links:
- Lawn Tennis Association
- London
Tags: Sport, Leisure, Society
Louis Le Prince Films 'Roundhay Garden Scene'
Year: 1888
Category: Technology
Louis Le Prince records the Roundhay Garden Scene, the earliest surviving film.
Related Links:
Tags: Film, Cinema, Motion Pictures, Entertainment
John Boyd Dunlop Patents Pneumatic Tire
Year: 1888
Category: Technology
The first practical pneumatic tire was made by Scotsman John Boyd Dunlop, the patent was from 1847 by Robert William Thomson
Related Links:
Tags: Transportation, Automobile, Rubber, Industrial Revolution, Patent
Bicycle Craze Takes Hold in Europe and America
Year: 1890
Category: Society & Culture
1890s: Bike boom sweeps Europe and America.
Related Links:
- Bike boom
Tags: Transportation, Cycling, Social Change, Recreation, Consumerism, Leisure, Urbanization
First Commercial Gramophone Record Released
Year: 1894
Category: Technology
First gramophone record.
Related Links:
- gramophone record
Tags: Sound Recording, Communication, Music, Entertainment, Industrial Revolution, Mass Media
Marconi Develops Wireless Radio Communication
Year: 1895
Category: Technology
Guglielmo Marconi invents a system of wireless communication using radio waves.
Related Links:
- Guglielmo Marconi
Tags: Radio, Wireless Communication, Guglielmo Marconi, Communication, Electrical Engineering, Global Impact
Edward VII Ascends to the Throne of England and India
Year: 1901
Category: Politics
January 22: Edward VII became King of England and India after Queen Victoria's death.
Related Links:
Tags: Monarchy, British Empire, Succession, Imperialism, Governance
Marconi Transmits First Transatlantic Radio Signal
Year: 1901
Category: Technology
December 12: Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic radio signal.
Related Links:
- December 12
- Guglielmo Marconi
Tags: Radio, Communication, Guglielmo Marconi, Scientific Breakthrough
Second Boer War Ends with British Victory
Year: 1902
Category: Warfare & Military
May 31: Second Boer War ends in British victory.
Related Links:
- May 31
- Second Boer War
Tags: Warfare, Imperialism, Colonialism, British Empire, Military History, Conflict
Arthur Balfour Appointed British Prime Minister
Year: 1902
Category: Politics
July 12: Arthur Balfour becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
Tags: Prime Minister, Edwardian Era, British Empire, Political Leadership
European Naval Blockade of Venezuela
Year: 1902
Category: Warfare & Military
Venezuelan crisis of 1902–1903, in which Britain, Germany and Italy impose a naval blockade on Venezuela in order to enforce collection of outstanding financial claims.
Related Links:
- Venezuelan crisis of 1902–1903
- Venezuela
Tags: Imperialism, Debt Crisis, Venezuela, Diplomacy, European Powers
Britain and France Sign Entente Cordiale
Year: 1904
Category: Politics
April 8: Entente Cordiale signed between Britain and France.
Related Links:
- April 8
- Entente Cordiale
Tags: Diplomacy, Alliance, Imperialism, Great Powers, International Relations
Fleming Valve (Vacuum Tube) Invention
Year: 1904
Category: Technology
The Fleming valve, the first vacuum tube and diode, is invented by John Ambrose Fleming.
Related Links:
Tags: Electronics, Radio, Telecommunications
Henry Campbell-Bannerman Appointed UK Prime Minister
Year: 1905
Category: Politics
December 5: Liberal Henry Campbell-Bannerman becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
- December 5
- Henry Campbell-Bannerman
Tags: Prime Minister, Liberal Party, Government, Edwardian Era, Political Leadership
Anglo-Russian Convention Ends the Great Game
Year: 1907
Category: Politics
August 31: The Anglo-Russian Convention bring an end to the Great Game in Central Asia.
Related Links:
Tags: Imperialism, Great Game, Geopolitics, British Empire, Russian Empire, Diplomacy, Colonialism
H. H. Asquith Appointed British Prime Minister
Year: 1908
Category: Politics
April 8: Liberal H. H. Asquith becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
- April 8
- H. H. Asquith
Tags: Prime Minister, Liberal Party, Edwardian Era, British Empire, Government
George V Ascends to the British Throne
Year: 1910
Category: Politics
May 6: George V becomes King of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions and Emperor of India upon the death of Edward VII.
Related Links:
Tags: British Empire, Monarchy, Succession, Imperialism, World War I
Treaty of London Resolves First Balkan War
Year: 1913
Category: Politics
May 30: Treaty of London.
Related Links:
- May 30
- Treaty of London
Tags: Balkan Wars, Treaties, Diplomacy, Ottoman Empire, Nationalism, Territorial Disputes
Entrenchment on the Western Front
Year: 1914
Category: Warfare & Military
September – October: The Race to the Sea leaves Germany and the Allies entrenched along the Western Front.
Related Links:
Tags: World War I, Western Front, Trench Warfare, Military Strategy, Allies, Military History, Warfare
Second Battle of Ypres: Poison Gas Debut
Year: 1915
Category: Warfare & Military
April 22: Second Battle of Ypres begins, first widespread use of poison gas.
Related Links:
- April 22
- Second Battle of Ypres
Tags: World War I, Western Front, Trench Warfare, Chemical Warfare, Battle, Military Technology, Weapons of Mass Destruction, Allied Powers
Sinking of the RMS Lusitania by German U-Boat
Year: 1915
Category: Warfare & Military
May 7: Sinking of the RMS Lusitania.
Related Links:
- May 7
- Sinking of the RMS Lusitania
Tags: World War I, Naval Warfare, Atrocity, Propaganda
First Large-Scale Use of Poison Gas in World War I
Year: 1915
Category: Warfare & Military
The first large scale use of poison gas by both sides in World War I occurs, first by the Germans at the Battle of Humin-Bolimów on the eastern front, and at the Second Battle of Ypres on the western front, and then by the British at the Battle of Loos.
Related Links:
Tags: World War I, Trench Warfare, Chemical Warfare, Weapons of Mass Destruction, Eastern Front, Western Front, Military Technology, Atrocities
Harry Brearley Invents Stainless Steel
Year: 1915
Category: Technology
Harry Brearley invents a process to create Martensitic stainless steel, initially labelled Rustless Steel, later marketed as Staybrite, and AISI Type 420.
Related Links:
- Harry Brearley
- Martensitic stainless steel
Tags: Metallurgy, Materials Science, Industrial Revolution, World War I
Tank Development and Design Begins
Year: 1915
Category: Warfare & Military
Great Britain and France developed the first operational military tanks, used in battle from 1916 and 1917. These tanks were designed by Walter Wilson and William Tritton in Britain, and Eugène Brillié in France.
Related Links:
Tags: World War I, Military Technology, Weapons Development, Tanks
Gallipoli Campaign Ends in Allied Failure
Year: 1916
Category: Warfare & Military
January 9: The Allies' Gallipoli campaign ends in failure; heavy losses of Australian troops.
Related Links:
- January 9
- Gallipoli campaign
Tags: World War I, Military History, Ottoman Empire, Allied Powers, Battle, Trench Warfare
Easter Rising
Year: 1916
Category: Warfare & Military
April 24–30: Easter Rising in Ireland.
Related Links:
Tags: Warfare, Revolution, Nationalism, Independence, World War I, Rebellion
Battle of the Somme: Brutal Trench Warfare and Mass Casualties
Year: 1916
Category: Warfare & Military
July – November: Battle of the Somme on Western Front; massive casualties.
Related Links:
Tags: World War I, Western Front, Trench Warfare, Military History
First Tank Use at the Battle of Flers–Courcelette
Year: 1916
Category: Warfare & Military
September 15–22: First use of tanks at the Battle of Flers–Courcelette.
Related Links:
Tags: World War I, Tanks, Military Technology, Western Front, Weapons Development
David Lloyd George Appointed UK Prime Minister
Year: 1916
Category: Politics
December 6: Liberal David Lloyd George becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
- December 6
- David Lloyd George
Tags: Prime Minister, World War I, Liberal Party, Government, British Empire
Allied Offensive at Passchendaele
Year: 1917
Category: Warfare & Military
July – November: Battle of Passchendaele.
Related Links:
Tags: World War I, Western Front, Trench Warfare, Battle, Offensive, Allied Powers, Central Powers
German Spring Offensive on the Western Front
Year: 1918
Category: Warfare & Military
March – July: The German spring offensive.
Related Links:
Tags: World War I, Western Front, Trench Warfare, German Empire, Allied Powers, Military Offensive
Allied Offensive at Amiens Begins
Year: 1918
Category: Warfare & Military
August 8 – 12: Battle of Amiens.
Related Links:
Tags: World War I, Western Front, Allied Powers, Central Powers, Tank Warfare, Trench Warfare, Battle, Offensive, Military History
Hundred Days Offensive: Allied Victory and German Collapse
Year: 1918
Category: Warfare & Military
August–November: The Hundred Days Offensive sends Germany into defeat.
Related Links:
Tags: World War I, Western Front, Allied Powers, Central Powers, Trench Warfare, Military Offensive, Armistice, German Empire
Treaty of Versailles Signed
Year: 1919
Category: Politics
Paris Peace Conference writes Treaty of Versailles that punishes Germany.
Related Links:
- Paris Peace Conference
- Treaty of Versailles
Tags: World War I, Treaty, Peace Treaty, Post-War, League of Nations, Interwar Period
US Begins First Red Scare; Irish War of Independence Starts
Year: 1919
Category: Politics
January 21: The First Red Scare in the United States. Irish War of Independence begins.
Related Links:
Tags: Communism, Anti-Communism, War of Independence, Civil Unrest, Nationalism, Revolution
Pius XI Elected Pope; Washington Naval Treaty Signed
Year: 1922
Category: Politics
February 6: Pius XI becomes Pope. The Washington Naval Treaty is signed.
Related Links:
Tags: Treaty, Catholicism, World War I Aftermath, Diplomacy, International Relations
Bonar Law Appointed Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
Year: 1922
Category: Politics
October 23: Conservative Bonar Law becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
- October 23
- Bonar Law
Tags: Prime Minister, Conservative Party, British Empire, Interwar Period, Government
BBC Founded
Year: 1922
Category: Technology
November 14: British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) established.
Related Links:
- November 14
- British Broadcasting Corporation
Tags: Broadcasting, Radio, Media, Communication, Cultural Impact, Public Service
Irish Free State Established; Northern Ireland Created
Year: 1922
Category: Politics
December 6: Irish Free State is established, while the Province of Northern Ireland is created within The United Kingdom.
Related Links:
Tags: Irish History, Independence, Partition, Northern Ireland, Treaty, Self-determination
Stanley Baldwin Appointed UK Prime Minister
Year: 1923
Category: Politics
May 22: Stanley Baldwin becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
- May 22
- Stanley Baldwin
Tags: Prime Minister, Conservative Party, British Politics, Government
Ramsay MacDonald Becomes UK Prime Minister
Year: 1924
Category: Politics
January 22: Ramsay MacDonald becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom; first Labour Party prime minister.
Related Links:
Tags: Labour Party, Prime Minister, Political History, Socialism, Parliament, Government
First Demonstration of Television Technology
Year: 1925
Category: Technology
March – April: First televisual image introduced by John Logie Baird.
Related Links:
Tags: Communication, Broadcasting
Locarno Treaties Signed
Year: 1925
Category: Politics
October 5 – 16: Locarno Treaties signed.
Related Links:
Tags: International Relations, Treaty, Weimar Republic, Interwar Period, Diplomacy, Rhineland, League of Nations
Harry Ferguson Patents the Three-Point Hitch
Year: 1926
Category: Technology
Harry Ferguson, patents the Three-point hitch equipment linkage system for tractors.
Related Links:
- Harry Ferguson
- Three-point hitch
Tags: Agriculture, Farming, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Revolution
John Logie Baird Demonstrates First Live Television System
Year: 1926
Category: Technology
John Logie Baird demonstrates the world's first live working television system.
Related Links:
- John Logie Baird
- television
Tags: Television, Inventions, Communication, Broadcasting, Mass Media
BBC Granted Royal Charter
Year: 1927
Category: Society & Culture
January 1: The BBC is granted a Royal charter in the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
Tags: Broadcasting, Media, Communications, Radio, British Empire, Royal Charter, Public Service
Formal Change of Name: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Year: 1927
Category: Politics
May 13: The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland officially becomes the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Related Links:
Tags: Northern Ireland, British Empire, Political Geography, Government
Malta Granted Dominion Status
Year: 1928
Category: Politics
Malta becomes a British Dominion.
Related Links:
- Malta
- British Dominion
Tags: British Empire, Colonialism, Self-governance, Malta, World War II
Frank Whittle Submits Ideas for Turbo-Jet Engine
Year: 1928
Category: Technology
Frank Whittle formally submitted his ideas for a turbo-jet engine. In October 1929, he developed his ideas further. On 16 January 1930, Whittle submitted his first patent (granted in 1932).
Related Links:
- Frank Whittle
Tags: Aviation, World War II, Patent
Ramsay MacDonald Appointed UK Prime Minister
Year: 1929
Category: Politics
June 5: Ramsay MacDonald becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
- June 5
- Ramsay MacDonald
Tags: Prime Minister, Labour Party, British Politics, Interwar Period, Government, Socialism
Frank Whittle Conceives the Supersonic Combusting Ramjet
Year: 1930
Category: Technology
The Supersonic combusting ramjet — Frank Whittle.
Related Links:
- Supersonic combusting ramjet
- Frank Whittle
Tags: Aeronautics, Jet Propulsion, Military Technology
British Commonwealth of Nations Established & South Africa's Independence Granted
Year: 1931
Category: Politics
December 11: Statute of Westminster creates the British Commonwealth of Nations. Independence of South Africa.
Related Links:
Tags: Decolonization, Commonwealth, British Empire, Independence, Self-governance, International Relations, Diplomacy, Imperialism
Third Round Table Conference on India's Future
Year: 1932
Category: Politics
Third Round Table Conference.
Tags: British Empire, Indian Independence Movement, Colonialism, Self-Government, Gandhi, Indian National Congress
BBC World Service Launches International Broadcasts
Year: 1932
Category: Technology
December 19: BBC World Service starts broadcasting.
Related Links:
- December 19
- BBC World Service
Tags: Media, Communication, World War II, Propaganda, International Relations
Germany Withdraws from League of Nations and Disarmament Conference
Year: 1933
Category: Politics
October 14: Germany announces its withdrawal from the League of Nations and the World Disarmament Conference, after the U.S., the U.K. and France deny its request to increase its defense armaments under the Versailles Treaty.
Related Links:
- October 14
Tags: World War II, League of Nations, Weimar Republic, International Relations, Diplomacy, Political Tensions
Edward VIII Ascends to British Throne
Year: 1936
Category: Politics
January 20: Edward VIII becomes King of the British Commonwealth and Emperor of India.
Related Links:
Tags: British Empire, Monarchy, Succession, Commonwealth, World War II, Imperialism
Edward VIII Abdicates, George VI Ascends the Throne
Year: 1936
Category: Politics
December 11: After a reign shorter than one year, Edward VIII abdicates and hands the throne to his brother, George VI.
Related Links:
Tags: Monarchy, Abdication, British Empire
Neville Chamberlain Appointed British Prime Minister
Year: 1937
Category: Politics
May 28: Neville Chamberlain becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
- May 28
- Neville Chamberlain
Tags: Prime Minister, Appeasement, World War II, Parliament
IRA Attempt to Assassinate King George VI
Year: 1937
Category: Warfare & Military
The Irish Republican Army attempts to assassinate King George VI.
Related Links:
- Irish Republican Army
- George VI
Tags: Irish Republican Army, IRA, Assassination Attempt, Monarchy, Terrorism, Irish History
László Bíró Patents the Ballpoint Pen
Year: 1938
Category: Technology
June 15: Hungarian newspaper editor László Bíró fills a British patent of the first commercially successful ballpoint pen. This would popularize the instrument, currently the most widely used for writing, after World War II.
Related Links:
Tags: Patent, Design, World War II, Post-War, Consumer Goods
Munich Agreement: Czechoslovakia Ceded to Nazi Germany
Year: 1938
Category: Politics
September 30: Munich Agreement hands Czechoslovakia to Nazi Germany.
Related Links:
Tags: Appeasement, Nazi Germany, World War II, Czechoslovakia, Adolf Hitler, Treaty, Diplomacy
Britain and France Declare War on Germany
Year: 1939
Category: Warfare & Military
September 3: Britain and France declare war on Germany; World War II begins.
Related Links:
- September 3
Tags: World War II, Axis Powers, Allied Powers, Global Conflict, Total War
Winston Churchill Appointed Prime Minister
Year: 1940
Category: Politics
May 10: Winston Churchill becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
Tags: World War II, Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, British Empire, Allies
Nazi Invasions of Western Europe
Year: 1940
Category: Warfare & Military
May – June: Nazis invade Denmark and Norway, followed by Belgium, the Netherlands and France; their governments (except Denmark) are exiled to the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
Tags: World War II, Nazi Germany, Invasion, Occupation, Western Front, Exile, Military Campaign, Axis Powers
Battle of Britain: Aerial Combat Defeats Axis
Year: 1940
Category: Warfare & Military
July – October: Battle of Britain, the first entirely aerial military campaign, becomes the first significant defeat for the Axis powers.
Related Links:
Tags: World War II, Strategic Bombing, Luftwaffe, Axis Powers, Allied Powers, Military Strategy, Turning Point
The Blitz Begins
Year: 1940
Category: Warfare & Military
September 7: The Blitz, a German bombing campaign against the United Kingdom, begins.
Related Links:
- September 7
- The Blitz
Tags: World War II, Air Warfare, Strategic Bombing, Luftwaffe
Cavity Magnetron Development
Year: 1940
Category: Technology
John Randall and Harry Boot would develop the high power, microwave generating, cavity magnetron, later applied to commercial Radar and Microwave oven appliances.
Related Links:
Tags: World War II, Radio Technology, Physics, Electromagnetism
Polyester Invented
Year: 1941
Category: Technology
Polyester is invented by John Rex Whinfield and James Dickson.
Related Links:
- Polyester
- John Rex Whinfield
Tags: Textiles, Synthetic Materials, Chemistry, Industrial Revolution
Tehran Conference: Overlord Planned
Year: 1943
Category: Warfare & Military
November – December: Tehran Conference between Franklin Roosevelt, Winston Churchill and Joseph Stalin agrees to launch Operation Overlord.
Related Links:
Tags: World War II, Allied Powers, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, Joseph Stalin, Diplomacy, Eastern Front, Western Front
Colossus Computer Becomes Operational
Year: 1944
Category: Technology
June 1: First operational electronic computer, Colossus, comes online.
Related Links:
- June 1
- Colossus
Tags: World War II, Cryptography, Computer Science, Information Technology, Military Technology
Allied Landings in Normandy
Year: 1944
Category: Warfare & Military
June 6: D-Day landings in Normandy.
Related Links:
- June 6
- D-Day landings
Tags: World War II, Western Front, Allied Powers, Axis Powers, Invasion, Military Strategy, Liberation
Liberation of Paris
Year: 1944
Category: Warfare & Military
August 19 – 25: Liberation of Paris.
Related Links:
Tags: World War II, Western Front, Liberation, Resistance, Charles de Gaulle, Battle, Military Campaign
Yalta Conference: Allied Leaders Plan Post-War Europe
Year: 1945
Category: Politics
February 4 – 11: Yalta Conference.
Related Links:
Tags: World War II, Diplomacy, Allied Powers, Soviet Union, Cold War, Divided Germany, International Relations
World War II Ends in Europe, Holocaust's Conclusion
Year: 1945
Category: Warfare & Military
May: End of World War II in Europe. The Holocaust ends after ~12 million deaths, including 6 million Jews.
Related Links:
Tags: World War II, Holocaust, Nazism, Allies, Axis Powers, Genocide, Totalitarianism, Liberation
Clement Attlee Appointed UK Prime Minister
Year: 1945
Category: Politics
July 26: Clement Attlee becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
- July 26
- Clement Attlee
Tags: Prime Minister, Labour Party, Post-War, Socialism
Potsdam Conference: Division of Europe into Blocs
Year: 1945
Category: Politics
July – August: The Potsdam Conference divides Europe into Western and Soviet blocs.
Related Links:
Tags: Cold War, Post-World War II, Geopolitics, Soviet Union, Iron Curtain, International Relations, Winston Churchill
Surrender of Japan and End of World War II
Year: 1945
Category: Warfare & Military
August 15: Victory over Japan Day.
Related Links:
- August 15
- Victory over Japan Day
Tags: World War II, Surrender, Military History, Pacific Theater, Allies, Axis Powers, Atomic Bomb, Cold War
James Martin Invents Ejector Seat
Year: 1946
Category: Technology
James Martin invents the ejector seat, inspired by the death of his friend and test pilot Captain Valentine Baker in an aeroplane crash in 1942.
Related Links:
Tags: Aviation, World War II, Military Technology, Safety
Holography Invention
Year: 1947
Category: Technology
Holography is invented by Dennis Gabor.
Related Links:
- Holography
- Dennis Gabor
Tags: Optics, Photography, Scientific Advancement
Marshall Plan Officially Begins
Year: 1948
Category: Economy & Trade
April 3: The Marshall Plan, an American initiative for foreign aid of $13 billion to 16 Western European countries, comes into effect.
Related Links:
- April 3
- Marshall Plan
Tags: Cold War, Post-World War II, Reconstruction, Foreign Policy, Containment, Capitalism
OECD Founded to Promote Economic Cooperation
Year: 1948
Category: Economy & Trade
April 16: The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) founded.
Related Links:
- April 16
- Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
Tags: Economic Cooperation, Post-War Reconstruction, International Organizations, Global Economy, Trade, Development, Cold War, Western Bloc
Berlin Blockade Initiated by Soviet Union
Year: 1948
Category: Warfare & Military
June 24: Berlin Blockade begins.
Related Links:
- June 24
- Berlin Blockade
Tags: Cold War, Berlin, Soviet Union, Blockade, Post-War, Geopolitics, Containment
North Atlantic Treaty Organization Founded
Year: 1949
Category: Warfare & Military
April 4: The Creation of NATO.
Related Links:
- April 4
- NATO
Tags: Cold War, Military Alliance, Geopolitics, Western Bloc, Soviet Union, Containment, International Relations
Berlin Blockade Officially Ends
Year: 1949
Category: Warfare & Military
May 12: Berlin Blockade ends.
Related Links:
- May 12
- Berlin Blockade
Tags: Cold War, Berlin, Blockade, Soviet Union, East Germany, West Germany, Post-War, Containment
Winston Churchill Appointed Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (Second Term)
Year: 1951
Category: Politics
October 26: Winston Churchill becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
- October 26
- Winston Churchill
Tags: Prime Minister, Post-War, Cold War, British Politics
Allied Occupation of West Germany Formally Ends
Year: 1952
Category: Politics
May: Bonn–Paris conventions end allied occupation of West Germany.
Related Links:
- May
- Bonn–Paris conventions
Tags: Post-War, Cold War, Occupation, West Germany, International Relations, Sovereignty, Allied Powers
First Passenger Jet Flight Route: London to Johannesburg
Year: 1952
Category: Technology
May 2: The first passenger jet flight route opens between London and Johannesburg.
Related Links:
- May 2
- jet flight
Tags: Aviation, Jet Age, Transportation, Globalization, Travel
Float Glass Process Developed
Year: 1952
Category: Technology
The float glass process is developed by Alastair Pilkington.
Related Links:
- float glass process
- Alastair Pilkington
Tags: Manufacturing, Glassmaking, Materials Science, Industrial Revolution, Global Impact
Elizabeth II's Coronation Ceremony
Year: 1953
Category: Politics
June 2: Coronation of Elizabeth II.
Related Links:
- June 2
- Coronation of Elizabeth II
Tags: Monarchy, British Empire, Commonwealth, Ceremony, Elizabeth II
Western European Union Founded
Year: 1954
Category: Warfare & Military
October 23: The Western European Union is established.
Related Links:
- October 23
- Western European Union
Tags: Cold War, European Integration, Military Alliance, Post-War, NATO, West Germany, Defense
Hovercraft Patented by Christopher Cockerell
Year: 1955
Category: Technology
The hovercraft is patented by Christopher Cockerell.
Related Links:
- hovercraft
- Christopher Cockerell
Tags: Transportation, Patent
Suez Canal Nationalization and Crisis
Year: 1956
Category: Politics
October 29 – November 7: Nasser's nationalisation of the Suez Canal triggers the Suez crisis.
Related Links:
Tags: Cold War, Nationalization, Decolonization, Middle East Conflict, Suez Canal, International Relations, Imperialism, United Nations
Harold Macmillan Appointed Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
Year: 1957
Category: Politics
January 10: Harold Macmillan becomes Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
- January 10
- Harold Macmillan
Tags: Prime Minister, Cold War, British Empire, Conservative Party
Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) Founded and Peace Sign Debut
Year: 1958
Category: Politics
November: Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) founded. CND's symbol, the peace sign, is first used.
Related Links:
Tags: Cold War, Peace, Activism, Protest
Cyprus Achieves Independence
Year: 1959
Category: Politics
February 19: Independence of Cyprus.
Related Links:
- February 19
- Cyprus
Tags: Independence, Decolonization, Cold War, Post-Colonialism, Ethnic Conflict, Self-determination, British Empire
European Free Trade Association Established
Year: 1960
Category: Economy & Trade
European Free Trade Association formed.
Related Links:
- European Free Trade Association
Tags: Trade, Economic Integration, Cold War, Free Trade, International Relations, Post-War, Regionalism
The Beatles Assemble in Liverpool
Year: 1960
Category: Society & Culture
The Beatles form in Liverpool.
Related Links:
- The Beatles
- Liverpool
Tags: Music, Rock and Roll, Popular Culture, British Invasion, Cultural Revolution
Death of Winston Churchill
Year: 1965
Category: Politics
January 24: Death of Winston Churchill.
Related Links:
- January 24
- Death of Winston Churchill
Tags: World War II, Cold War, British Empire, Prime Minister, Leadership, Legacy
The Troubles Erupt in Northern Ireland
Year: 1968
Category: Warfare & Military
The Troubles begin in Northern Ireland.
Related Links:
- The Troubles
- Northern Ireland
Tags: Northern Ireland, Conflict, Paramilitarism, Nationalism, Religious Conflict, Civil Rights Movement, The Troubles, IRA
ARPANET and NPL Implement Packet Switching
Year: 1969
Category: Technology
The NPL network followed by the ARPANET implement packet switching for data communication, drawing on the concepts and designs of Donald Davies, and Paul Baran. These are considered precursors to the modern Internet.
Related Links:
Tags: Internet, Information Technology, Digital Revolution
Airbus Consortium Officially Formed
Year: 1970
Category: Technology
December 18: Establishment of Airbus.
Related Links:
- December 18
- Airbus
Tags: Aviation, Aerospace, European Union, International Cooperation, Manufacturing, Economic Development
Public-Key Cryptography Concept Proposed
Year: 1970
Category: Technology
James H. Ellis proposed the possibility of "non-secret encryption", more commonly termed public-key cryptography, a concept that would be implemented by his GCHQ colleague Clifford Cocks in 1973, in what would become known as the RSA algorithm, with key exchange added by a third colleague Malcolm J. Williamson, in 1975.
Related Links:
Tags: Cryptography, Computer Science, Mathematics, Internet
Internment Without Trial Begins in Northern Ireland
Year: 1971
Category: Warfare & Military
August 9 – 10: Internment begins in Northern Ireland.
Related Links:
Tags: Northern Ireland, The Troubles, Civil Rights, Paramilitarism, British Army, Political Violence
Bloody Sunday: British Army Kills Civil Rights Protesters in Derry
Year: 1972
Category: Warfare & Military
January 30: Northern Ireland's Bloody Sunday.
Related Links:
Tags: The Troubles, Northern Ireland, Civil Rights Movement, Protest, Violence, British Army, Political Conflict
Denmark, Ireland, and the United Kingdom Join the European Economic Community
Year: 1973
Category: Politics
January 1: Denmark, Ireland and the United Kingdom joins the European Communities.
Related Links:
Tags: European Integration, Post-War, Cold War, International Relations, Trade, Expansion
1973 Oil Embargo and Price Shock
Year: 1973
Category: Economy & Trade
October: 1973 oil crisis.
Related Links:
- October
- 1973 oil crisis
Tags: Oil Crisis, Energy Crisis, OPEC, Inflation, Geopolitics, Economic Recession, Cold War, Arab-Israeli Conflict
Turkish Invasion and Division of Cyprus
Year: 1974
Category: Warfare & Military
July – August: The Turkish invasion of Cyprus leads to the creation of the Northern Cyprus.
Related Links:
Tags: Cold War, Invasion, Partition, Ethnic Conflict, Military Intervention, United Nations, Geopolitics
Helsinki Accords Signed
Year: 1975
Category: Politics
August 1: The Helsinki Accords, which officially recognize Europe's national borders and respect for human rights, are signed in Finland.
Related Links:
- August 1
- Helsinki Accords
Tags: Cold War, Human Rights, Detente, International Relations, Soviet Union, Diplomacy
Mass Production of Personal Computers Begins
Year: 1977
Category: Technology
Introduction of the first mass-produced personal computers.
Related Links:
- personal computers
Tags: Computer Revolution, Steve Jobs, Software Development
Margaret Thatcher Appointed Prime Minister
Year: 1979
Category: Politics
May 4: Margaret Thatcher becomes the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Related Links:
- May 4
- Margaret Thatcher
Tags: Prime Minister, Conservative Party, Gender Equality, Cold War, Political Leadership
Second Global Oil Crisis
Year: 1979
Category: Economy & Trade
The 1979 oil crisis becomes the second one since 1973.
Related Links:
- 1979 oil crisis
Tags: Oil Crisis, Energy Crisis, OPEC, Inflation, Stagflation, Economic Recession, Global Economy, Supply Chain
Public Online Services Launched: CompuServe, MicroNET, and Prestel
Year: 1979
Category: Technology
Public dialup information, messaging and e-commerce services, were pioneered through CompuServe and RadioShack's MicroNET, and the UK's Post Office Telecommunications Prestel services.
Related Links:
Tags: Internet, Online Services, Telecommunications, E-commerce
Greece Enters the European Communities
Year: 1981
Category: Politics
January 1: Greece joins the European Communities.
Related Links:
Tags: European Union, European Integration, Political Alliances, International Relations, Economic Development, Cold War, Post-War
Kane Kramer Develops the IXI Digital Media Player
Year: 1981
Category: Technology
Kane Kramer develops the credit card-sized, IXI digital media player.
Related Links:
- Kane Kramer
- digital media player
Tags: Digital Media, Consumer Electronics, Audio
Sky One Satellite Television Launched
Year: 1982
Category: Technology
Direct to home satellite television transmission, with the launch of Sky One service.
Related Links:
- satellite television
- Sky One
Tags: Television, Satellite, Broadcasting, Media, Communication, Entertainment
Technophone Develops the First Pocket-Sized Mobile Phone
Year: 1986
Category: Technology
Technophone, a British mobile phone company, created the first pocket-sized cell phone, the Excell PCT105.
Related Links:
- Technophone
- Excell PCT105
Tags: Mobile Phones, Telecommunications, Consumer Electronics, Portable Devices
Black Monday Stock Market Crash
Year: 1987
Category: Economy & Trade
October 19: Stock market crash of 1987.
Related Links:
- October 19
- Stock market crash
Tags: Stock Market, Financial Crisis, Economic Recession, Globalization, Market Volatility, Speculation
Channel Tunnel Construction Begins
Year: 1988
Category: Technology
Construction of the Channel Tunnel begins.
Related Links:
- Channel Tunnel
Tags: Infrastructure, Transportation, European Union, Construction
Tim Berners-Lee Invents the World Wide Web
Year: 1989
Category: Technology
The World Wide Web is invented by computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee.
Related Links:
- World Wide Web
- Tim Berners-Lee
Tags: World Wide Web, Internet, Computer Science, Information Technology, Networking, Digital Revolution, Globalization, Communication, Software Development
First Website Published by Tim Berners-Lee
Year: 1990
Category: Technology
December 20: Tim Berners-Lee publishes the first web site, which described the World Wide Web project.
Related Links:
Tags: World Wide Web, Internet, Computer Science, Information Technology, Digital Revolution, Communication
Elizabeth II Addresses U.S. Congress During Royal Visit
Year: 1991
Category: Politics
May 16: Elizabeth II becomes the first British monarch to address the U.S. Congress during a 13-day royal visit in Washington, D.C.
Related Links:
Tags: Diplomacy, Monarchy, Cold War, Heads of State, International Relations, Ceremony
Maastricht Treaty Signed, Establishing the European Union
Year: 1992
Category: Politics
February 7: The Maastricht Treaty is signed, creating the European Union.
Related Links:
Tags: European Integration, European Union, Treaty, International Relations, Political Union, Globalization, Multilateralism, Sovereignty, Economic Cooperation
Maastricht Treaty Enters into Force
Year: 1993
Category: Politics
November 1: The Maastricht Treaty comes in to effect.
Related Links:
- November 1
- Maastricht Treaty
Tags: European Union, Treaty, European Integration, Political Union, International Relations
Channel Tunnel Opens
Year: 1994
Category: Technology
May 6: Opening of the Channel Tunnel.
Related Links:
- May 6
- Channel Tunnel
Tags: Infrastructure, Transportation, European Union, Construction, Trade
NATO Air Strikes Halt Bosnian War
Year: 1995
Category: Warfare & Military
August–September: NATO bombing raids in Bosnia end the Bosnian War.
Related Links:
Tags: Bosnian War, NATO, Air Strikes, Ethnic Conflict, War Crimes, International Intervention, Military Intervention
Death of Diana, Princess of Wales, in a Car Accident
Year: 1997
Category: Society & Culture
August 31: Diana, Princess of Wales is killed in a car accident in Paris.
Related Links:
- August 31
- Diana, Princess of Wales is killed
Tags: Monarchy, Celebrity Culture, Media
Good Friday Agreement Ends The Troubles
Year: 1998
Category: Politics
April 10: The Good Friday Agreement brings an end to The Troubles in Northern Ireland.
Related Links:
Tags: Peace Agreement, Northern Ireland, The Troubles, Conflict Resolution, Negotiation
Dot-com Bubble Bursts, Triggering Global Stock Market Crash
Year: 2000
Category: Economy & Trade
March 10: Dot-com bubble bursts, causing stock markets worldwide to crash.
Related Links:
- March 10
- Dot-com bubble
Tags: Stock Market, Economic Crisis, Internet, Recession, Finance, Investment, Globalization
Concorde's Final Commercial Flight
Year: 2003
Category: Technology
Final flight of the SST (Supersonic Transport) Concorde.
Related Links:
- Concorde
Tags: Aviation, Transportation, Air Travel, Economic Impact
Provisional IRA Announces End of Military Campaign
Year: 2005
Category: Warfare & Military
July 28: The Provisional Irish Republican Army ends its military campaign in Northern Ireland.
Related Links:
Tags: Irish Republican Army, Northern Ireland, The Troubles, Peace Process, Insurgency, Ceasefire
Alexander Litvinenko Dies from Polonium-210 Poisoning
Year: 2006
Category: Politics
November 1: Former Russian security agent Alexander Litvinenko dies from poisoning in the UK.
Related Links:
- November 1
- Alexander Litvinenko dies from poisoning
Tags: Assassination, Espionage, Cold War, Political Intrigue, Human Rights, Intelligence Agencies, Poisoning, International Relations
EU Member States Sign the Treaty of Lisbon
Year: 2007
Category: Politics
December 13: 27 EU member states sign the Treaty of Lisbon, with the treaty coming into effect on December 1, 2009.
Related Links:
Tags: European Union, Treaty, Political Integration, International Relations, Law, EU Enlargement, Governance
Bank of Scotland Launches World's First Banking App
Year: 2007
Category: Technology
The Bank of Scotland develops the world's first banking app
Related Links:
- Bank of Scotland
Tags: Banking, Mobile Technology, Digital Revolution, Internet, Communication
Greek Debt Crisis Triggers European Sovereign Debt Crisis and Irish Financial Crisis
Year: 2010
Category: Economy & Trade
The threat of Greece defaulting on its debts triggers the European sovereign debt crisis and Republic of Ireland's financial crisis.
Related Links:
Tags: Financial Crisis, European Union, Economic Recession, Eurozone, Global Economy, Banking Crisis
England Riots
Year: 2011
Category: Society & Culture
August 6 – 11: Riots flare across England.
Related Links:
Tags: Social Unrest, Riots, Protests
News International Phone Hacking Scandal Revelations
Year: 2011
Category: Society & Culture
News International phone hacking scandal.
Related Links:
- News International phone hacking scandal
Tags: Media, Journalism, Ethics, Privacy, Scandal, Crime
Fusilier Lee Rigby Murdered by Islamic Terrorists in London
Year: 2013
Category: Warfare & Military
May 22: British Army soldier Fusilier Lee Rigby of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers is murdered in Woolwich, southeast London by Islamic terrorists Michael Adebolajo and Michael Adebowale.
Related Links:
Tags: Terrorism, Military, Islamism, Crime
Birth of Prince George of Wales
Year: 2013
Category: Society & Culture
July 22: Birth of Prince George of Wales.
Related Links:
- July 22
- Prince George of Wales
Tags: Monarchy, Celebrity, Birth, Society
Scotland Rejects Independence in Referendum
Year: 2014
Category: Politics
September 18 – Scotland votes to remain part of the United Kingdom during the 2014 Scottish independence referendum.
Related Links:
Tags: Referendum, Scottish Independence, Nationalism, Political Division, Self-determination, Democracy
Philae Probe Lands on Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko
Year: 2014
Category: Technology
November 12: The Rosetta spacecraft's Philae probe becomes the first to successfully land on a comet.
Related Links:
Tags: Space Exploration, Comets, Astronomy, Spacecraft
United Kingdom Votes to Leave the European Union; Cameron Resigns
Year: 2016
Category: Politics
June 23 – July 13: The people of the United Kingdom vote to leave the European Union; David Cameron resigns as a result, and Theresa May succeeds him as the second female Prime Minister of the UK.
Related Links:
Tags: Brexit, European Union, Referendum, Political Transition, Populism, Globalization, Political Divisions
Women's March Held Across the Globe
Year: 2017
Category: Society & Culture
January 21: Millions of people participate in the Women's March in response to the inauguration of Donald Trump.
Related Links:
- January 21
- Women's March
Tags: Protest, Feminism, Social Movements, Activism, Gender Equality, Human Rights, Political Polarization, Donald Trump
Weinstein Scandal Sparks #MeToo Movement
Year: 2017
Category: Society & Culture
Allegations of sexual abuse against film producer Harvey Weinstein lead to a wave of similar accusations from within Hollywood and other areas of primarily the English-speaking world.
Related Links:
Tags: Feminism, Social Justice, Hollywood, Celebrity Culture, Cultural Revolution
Poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal and Dawn Sturgess in England
Year: 2018
Category: Politics
Four people are poisoned with a nerve agent, one fatally, in Salisbury and Amesbury, England in a suspected Russian assassination attempt.
Related Links:
- Salisbury
- Amesbury
Tags: Assassination, Espionage, Cold War, International Relations
United Kingdom Formally Withdraws from the European Union
Year: 2020
Category: Politics
January 31: The United Kingdom formally withdraws from the European Union.
Related Links:
Tags: Brexit, European Union, Sovereignty, International Relations, Nationalism, Populism, Referendum
Death of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh
Year: 2021
Category: Society & Culture
April 9: Buckingham Palace announces the death of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh and husband of the Queen, at the age of 99.
Related Links:
Tags: Monarchy, Death, British History, Celebrity
Glasgow Climate Pact Signed, Shell Mandated to Comply with Paris Agreement
Year: 2021
Category: Politics
197 nations sign the Glasgow Climate Pact, agreeing to limit the use of coal, and the Netherlands legally mandates Royal Dutch Shell to comply with the Paris Agreement.
Related Links:
Tags: Climate Change, Environmentalism, Fossil Fuels, United Nations, Global Cooperation
United Kingdom Government Instability and Leadership Changes
Year: 2022
Category: Politics
July – October: United Kingdom government crises
Related Links:
Tags: Political Crisis, Government Instability, Conservative Party, Prime Minister, Brexit
Queen Elizabeth II Dies; Charles III Becomes King
Year: 2022
Category: Politics
September 8: Elizabeth II dies at the age of 96, and is succeeded by Charles III.
Related Links:
Tags: Monarchy, Commonwealth, Succession, Elizabeth II, Head of State
Charles III Crowned King
Year: 2023
Category: Politics
May 6: Charles III is crowned king of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth realms.
Related Links:
Tags: Monarchy, Commonwealth, Succession, Ceremony, Political Transition
Julian Assange Released from UK Prison, Returns to Australia
Year: 2024
Category: Politics
June 24: Julian Assange released from prison in UK after accepting US plea bargain, returns to Australia
Related Links:
Tags: Espionage, Freedom of the Press, International Law, Transparency
Labour Party Victory in United Kingdom General Election
Year: 2024
Category: Politics
July 4: Labour wins United Kingdom general election
Related Links:
Tags: Elections, Labour Party, Political Parties, Government
United Kingdom Urban Unrest
Year: 2024
Category: Society & Culture
July 30 - August 5: United Kingdom riots
Related Links:
Tags: Civil Unrest, Riots, Social Inequality, Protest, Political Instability
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby Resigns Amidst Abuse Scandal
Year: 2024
Category: Religion
November 20: Justin Welby resigns as Archbishop of Canterbury amidst abuse scandal
Related Links:
Tags: Religion, Scandal, Resignation, Christianity, Ethics

🔵 Blue events are more important

1066 to 2025 Timeline: politics, warfare, culture, economy, technology, society, colonialism, religion

Timeline Events

Battle of Stamford Bridge

Norman Conquest of England

Compilation of the Domesday Book

William the Conqueror Orders the Domesday Book

William II Crowned King of England

Failed Rebellion Against William II

King Malcolm III of Scotland Killed at the Battle of Alnwick

First Lectures Held at the University of Oxford

First Crusade: Siege of Antioch

Henry I Crowned King of England

Treaty of Alton: Henry I and Robert of Normandy

Norman Victory at Tinchebray

David I Crowned King of Scots

Beginning of The Anarchy: Civil War Erupts in England

Second Crusade Launched

Treaty of Wallingford Ends English Civil War

Henry II Crowned King of England

Pope Adrian IV Grants Ireland to Henry II

Norman Invasion of Ireland Begins

Murder of Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral

Henry II Lands in Ireland to Claim Lordship

William I of Scotland Captured and Submits to English Rule

Treaty of Windsor Establishes English Influence in Ireland

First Documented Use of Windmills

Richard I Crowned King of England

Preparations for the Third Crusade

Emperor Frederick Barbarossa's Death and Crusader Army's Disintegration

Richard I Defeats Saladin at Arsuf

Richard the Lionheart's Victory at the Battle of Jaffa

Treaty of Ramla: Jerusalem Remains Muslim, Latin Kingdom Reduced

Arthur of Brittany Defeated at the Battle of Mirebeau

French Conquest of Normandy

French Victory at the Battle of Bouvines

King John Signs Magna Carta

Treaty of Paris Settles Disputes Between England and France

Edward I and Charles of Anjou Launch Ninth Crusade in Acre

Peterhouse College Founded at Cambridge University

English Jews Expelled by Royal Decree

Outbreak of the First War of Scottish Independence

Hundred Years' War Begins: Edward III Claims French Throne

English Victory at the Battle of Crécy

Treaty of Berwick: Scotland Maintains Independence

John Wycliffe's Dismissal and the Rise of Lollardy

English Peasants' Uprising

Owain Glyndŵr's Uprising: Welsh Resistance to English Rule

English Victory at the Battle of Agincourt

James I Returns to Scotland After English Captivity

Joan of Arc's Victory at Orléans

Joan of Arc's Pretrial Investigations Commence

Eton College Established by Henry VI

Battle of Castillon: Cannon's Decisive Role

Wars of the Roses Begin

Yorkist Victory at the Battle of Mortimer's Cross

Edward IV's Secret Marriage to Elizabeth Woodville

Henry VII Victorious at Battle of Bosworth, Ascends to English Throne

English Victory at the Battle of Flodden Field

Treaty of London: Non-Aggression Pact

Anne Boleyn Crowned Queen of England

Birth of Elizabeth Tudor

Death of Catherine of Aragon

Execution of Anne Boleyn

William Tyndale's English Bible Translation Published

Italian War Resumes: France, Scotland, and the Ottoman Empire vs. the Holy Roman Empire and England

Clan Fraser vs. Clan Macdonald of Clan Ranald: Battle of the Shirts

Death of King Henry VIII

Edward VI Ascends to the Throne and is Crowned

Mary I Ascends to Throne and Restores Catholicism

Princess Elizabeth Imprisoned in the Tower of London

Founding of the Muscovy Company

Elizabeth I Ascends to the English Throne

England Loses Calais to France

Italian Wars End with Peace Treaty

Royal Exchange Founded by Thomas Gresham

Mary, Queen of Scots, Imprisoned by Elizabeth I

Catholic Rebellion in Northern England

Pope Pius V Excommunicates Elizabeth I

Drake's Raids Prompt Spanish Armada Buildup and Impoundment of English Ships

Execution of Mary, Queen of Scots