What happened in July 1881

July 1881: A Pivotal Month in History

July 1881 witnessed a confluence of events that shaped the course of history across continents. From advancements in military reforms to the culmination of long-standing conflicts, this month was a turning point for several nations. Here's a closer look at some of the most significant events that unfolded in July 1881:

The Assassination of James A. Garfield (July 2nd):

A Nation in Shock: On July 2nd, 1881, the United States was plunged into shock when President James A. Garfield was shot by Charles Guiteau, a disgruntled office seeker. The assassination, which took place at the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Station in Washington D.C., cast a dark shadow over the nation.

A Lingering Wound: Garfield, the 20th president of the United States, survived the initial attack. However, the rudimentary medical practices of the time and the lodged bullet led to a series of infections. He lingered for over two months before succumbing to complications on September 19th, 1881.

A Nation Divided: The assassination exposed the deep political divisions within the United States. The motivations behind Guiteau's act, fueled by a sense of entitlement and disappointment over a patronage position, highlighted the flaws of the spoils system, a political practice where government jobs were awarded based on party loyalty rather than merit.

The Surrender of Sitting Bull (July 20th):

The End of an Era: On July 20th, 1881, a pivotal chapter in the American Indian Wars closed. Sioux Chief Sitting Bull, a legendary Lakota leader who had fiercely resisted forced relocation onto reservations, surrendered to U.S. troops at Fort Buford in Montana. This marked a significant victory for the U.S. government in its efforts to control the western territories.

A Complex Legacy: The surrender of Sitting Bull remains a contentious issue. While some view it as a necessary step towards peace, others see it as a betrayal of the Lakota people's sovereignty and a symbol of their forced assimilation.

The Birth of Tuskegee Institute (July 4th):

Education for All: Amidst the racial tensions of the Reconstruction era, a beacon of hope emerged on July 4th, 1881. Booker T. Washington, a former slave and visionary educator, founded the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. The institute's mission was to provide vocational and industrial training to African Americans, empowering them with the skills necessary for economic independence and social mobility.

A Legacy of Empowerment: Tuskegee Institute, later renamed Tuskegee University, played a pivotal role in the education of African Americans in the South. Washington's philosophy of industrial education, which emphasized practical skills alongside academic learning, proved to be a foundation for the advancement of Black communities within the United States.

The General Order 70 (July 1st):

Military Modernization: Across the Atlantic, the United Kingdom embarked on a significant military reform. The implementation of General Order 70 on July 1st, 1881, marked the culmination of the Cardwell-Childers reforms, named after the two Secretaries of State for War who spearheaded the initiative. These reforms aimed to modernize the British Army, establishing a more efficient and professional military force.

Focus on Professionalism: The reforms introduced a series of changes, including the abolishment of the purchase of commissions, a system where officers could buy their ranks. This paved the way for a meritocratic system where promotions were based on competence and experience. Additionally, the reforms reorganized the infantry battalions, creating a more streamlined and deployable military structure.

The Boundary Treaty of 1881 (July 23rd):

Ending a Long Dispute: In South America, a decades-long territorial dispute between Chile and Argentina was settled with the signing of the Boundary Treaty of 1881 on July 23rd. The treaty delineated the border between the two nations, bringing an end to a period of tension and uncertainty.

These are just some of the significant events that transpired in July 1881. This month serves as a microcosm of a larger historical context, highlighting themes of political upheaval, social change, and advancements in warfare and education. As we delve deeper into the past, understanding pivotal moments like these allows us to appreciate the complexities of history and its lasting impact on the world we live in today.

Welcome to July 2024, May we be given a long life

by: Indonesia 2 July 2024