Abraham Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation to free enslaved people in Confederate states
Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865) was the 16th president of the United States, serving from 1861 until his assassination in 1865.
Year in History
Explore the major historical events, famous births, and notable deaths that occurred in the year 1863. This year saw 160 significant events. 9 notable figures were born. 1 notable figure passed away.
19th Century1860s
1863 Timeline
Abraham Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation to free enslaved people in Confederate states
Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865) was the 16th president of the United States, serving from 1861 until his assassination in 1865.
P. T. Barnum stages wedding of Tom Thumb & Mercy Lavinia Warren, both midgets, in NYC
P. T. Barnum stages wedding of Tom Thumb & Mercy Lavinia Warren, both midgets, in NYC
Prince of Wales, Albert Edward (21) weds Princess Alexandra of Denmark (18) at Windsor Castle in St. George's chapel
King Christian IX of Denmark (8 April 1818 – 29 January 1906), known as the "father-in-law of Europe", ruled Denmark from 1863 to 1906.
Confederate cruiser SS Georgiana is destroyed on her maiden voyage with a cargo of munitions and medicines valued at ove
Confederate cruiser SS Georgiana is destroyed on her maiden voyage with a cargo of munitions and medicines valued at over $1,000,000. The wreck is discovered exactly 102 years later by teenage diver and pioneer underwater archaeologist E. Lee Spence.
Bahá'u'lláh, founder of the Bahá'í Faith, enters the garden of Ridván near Baghdad. He makes his declaration as a Messen
Bahá'u'lláh, founder of the Bahá'í Faith, enters the garden of Ridván near Baghdad. He makes his declaration as a Messenger of God during the 12 days he spends there.
Battle of Gettysburg begins in Pennsylvania, Union forces halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virg
Battle of Gettysburg begins in Pennsylvania, Union forces halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia
Battle of Gettysburg, the largest battle ever fought on the American continent, ends in a major victory for the Union du
Battle of Gettysburg, the largest battle ever fought on the American continent, ends in a major victory for the Union during the US Civil War
British forces invade the Waikato in New Zealand, home of the Māori King Movement, beginning a new phase of the New Zeal
British forces invade the Waikato in New Zealand, home of the Māori King Movement, beginning a new phase of the New Zealand Wars between the colonial government and allied Māori tribes on one side and Māori on the other [1]
Indian Wars: Chief Pocatello of the Shoshone tribe signs the Treaty of Box Elder, promising to stop harassing emigrant t
Indian Wars: Chief Pocatello of the Shoshone tribe signs the Treaty of Box Elder, promising to stop harassing emigrant trails in southern Idaho and northern Utah
International conference begins in Geneva aimed at improving medical conditions on battlefields, leads to the formation
International conference begins in Geneva aimed at improving medical conditions on battlefields, leads to the formation of the Red Cross
Football Association forms in England, standardizing soccer and splitting from rugby
Football Association forms in England, standardizing soccer and splitting from rugby
Painter Edouard Manet (31) weds Suzanne Leenhoff (34)
Painter Edouard Manet (31) weds Suzanne Leenhoff (34)
US President Abraham Lincoln delivers his Gettysburg Address, starts with "Four score and seven years ago..."
Abraham Lincoln's tenure as the 16th president of the United States began on March 4, 1861, and ended upon his death on April 15, 1865, 42 days into his second term.
Abraham Lincoln issues his Amnesty Proclamation and plan for the Reconstruction of the South
The Ten Percent Plan, formally the Proclamation of Amnesty and Reconstruction (13 Stat.
Battle of Stone's River ends with a Union victory
The Battle of Stones River, also known as the Second Battle of Murfreesboro, was fought from December 31, 1862, to January 2, 1863, in Middle Tennessee, as the culmination of the Stones River...
Four-wheeled roller skates are patented by James Plimpton in New York City
The documented history of inline skates dates back to the early 18th century, when enterprising inventors sought to make boots roll on wheels to emulate the gliding of ice blades on dry land.
American Civil War: Second Battle of Springfield
The Second Battle of Springfield took place during the American Civil War on January 8, 1863, in Springfield, Missouri. It is sometimes known as The Battle of Springfield.
-Jan 11th] Battle of Arkansas Post, Arkansa (Fort Hindman)
-Jan 11th] Battle of Arkansas Post, Arkansa (Fort Hindman)
First underground railway opens in London
The history of the London Underground began in the 19th century with the construction of the Metropolitan Railway, the world's first underground railway.
Naval engagement near Galveston between CSS Alabama and USS Hatteras
CSS Alabama was a screw sloop-of-war built in 1862 for the Confederate States Navy. She was built in Birkenhead on the River Mersey opposite Liverpool, England, by John Laird Sons and Company.
Confederate President Davis delivers his "State of Confederacy" address
Confederate President Davis delivers his "State of Confederacy" address
Chenille yarn making machine patented by William Canter in NYC
Chenille yarn making machine patented by William Canter in NYC
Battle between gunboats at Bayou Teche, Louisiana
Bayou Teche (Louisiana French: Bayou Têche) is a 125-mile-long (201 km) waterway in south central Louisiana in the United States.
First US newspaper printed on wood-pulp paper, Boston Morning Journal
First US newspaper printed on wood-pulp paper, Boston Morning Journal
-Aug 23rd) Cruise of CSS Florida
-Aug 23rd) Cruise of CSS Florida
Civil War skirmish near Newtown, Virginia
Civil War skirmish near Newtown, Virginia
General Mieroslawski appointed dictator of Poland
A dictator is a political leader who possesses absolute power. A dictatorship is defined as a state ruled by a dictator.
City of Dublin leases part of the Cattle Market for 100,000 years
City of Dublin leases part of the Cattle Market for 100,000 years
The January Uprising, an insurrection in Russia's Kingdom of Poland aimed at restoration of the Polish–Lithuanian Common
The January Uprising, an insurrection in Russia's Kingdom of Poland aimed at restoration of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth begins; carries on for 1-1/2 years, but fails
General Joseph Hooker replaces Burnside as head of Army of Potomac
Joseph Hooker was an American Civil War general for the Union, chiefly remembered for his decisive defeat by Confederate General Robert E. Lee at the Battle of Chancellorsville in 1863.
American Civil War: Massachusetts Governor receives permission from Secretary of War to raise a militia organization for
American Civil War: Massachusetts Governor receives permission from Secretary of War to raise a militia organization for men of African descent (54th Massachusetts Regiment)
Bear River Massacre: American soldiers slaughter hundreds of Native Americans at the confluence of the Bear River and Be
Bear River Massacre: American soldiers slaughter hundreds of Native Americans at the confluence of the Bear River and Beaver Creek in present day Idaho
1st black Civil War regiment, South Carolina Volunteers, mustered into US army
The 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment is an infantry regiment that saw extensive service in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
HMS Orpheus sinks off the coast of Auckland, New Zealand, killing 189
HMS Orpheus was a Jason-class Royal Navy corvette that served as the flagship of the Australian squadron.
1st US fire extinguisher patent granted to Alanson Crane of Virginia
1st US fire extinguisher patent granted to Alanson Crane of Virginia
Arizona Territory created
The Territory of Arizona, commonly known as the Arizona Territory, was a territory of the United States that existed from February 24, 1863, until February 14, 1912, when the remaining extent of the...
Congress creates national banking system, comptroller of currency
The National Banking Acts of 1863 and 1864 were two United States federal banking acts that established a system of national banks chartered at the federal level, and created the United States...
Confederate raider "Nashville" sinks near Fort McAllister, Georgia
The First Battle of Fort McAllister was a series of naval attacks that took place from January 27 to March 3, 1863, at Fort McAllister in Bryan County, Georgia, during the American Civil War.
1st US wartime military conscription bill enacted
1st US wartime military conscription bill enacted
Battle of Thompson's Station, Tennessee
Thompson's Station is a town in Williamson County, Tennessee. The population has grown from 2,194 at the 2010 Census to 7,485 in the 2020 Census. Locations in Thompson's Station listed on the U.S.
Battle of Kelly's Ford, Virginia with 211 causalities
Battle of Kelly's Ford, Virginia with 211 causalities
Naval Engagement at Havana, Cuba: USS Henrick Hudson vs Confederate blockade runner Wild Pigeon
Naval Engagement at Havana, Cuba: USS Henrick Hudson vs Confederate blockade runner Wild Pigeon
Voters in West Virginia approve gradual emancipation of slaves
The Emancipation Proclamation, officially Proclamation 95, was a presidential proclamation and executive order issued by United States president Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, during the...
Danish prince Wilhelm Georg of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glucksburg chosen as king George of Greece
George I was King of Greece from 30 March 1863 until his assassination on 18 March 1913. Originally a Danish prince, George was born in Copenhagen, and seemed destined for a career in the Royal...
Battle of Grand Gulf, Mississippi and Dinwiddie Court House, Virginia
Battle of Grand Gulf, Mississippi and Dinwiddie Court House, Virginia
1st wartime conscription law in US goes into effect
1st wartime conscription law in US goes into effect
Bread revolt in Richmond, Virginia
The Southern bread riots were events of civil unrest in the Confederacy during the American Civil War, perpetrated mostly by women in March and April 1863.
Battle of Charleston, South Carolina failed Federal fleet attack on Fort Sumter
The Battle of Fort Sumter (also the Attack on Fort Sumter or the Fall of Fort Sumter) (April 12–13, 1861) was the bombardment of Fort Sumter near Charleston, South Carolina, by the South Carolina...
Confederate General Earl Van Dorn attacks at Franklin, Tennessee
Earl Van Dorn (September 17, 1820 – May 7, 1863) was an American Major General who started his military career as a United States Army officer and became famous for successfully leading two defenses...
Battle of Suffolk, Virginia (Norfleet House)
The siege of Suffolk, also known as the Battle of Suffolk, took place from April 11 to May 4, 1863, near Suffolk, Virginia during the American Civil War.
-14] Gunboat battle at Bayou Teche, Louisiana
The 5th Louisiana Field Battery was an artillery unit recruited from volunteers in Louisiana that fought in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War.
Battle of Irish Bend, Louisiana (Fort Bisland)
The Battle of Irish Bend, also known as Nerson's Woods or Franklin, took place during the American Civil War.
American inventor William Bullock patents continuous-roll printing press
American inventor William Bullock patents continuous-roll printing press
Grierson's raid begins as Colonel Grierson and 1700 horse troopers set off from La Grange, Tennessee
Grierson's raid begins as Colonel Grierson and 1700 horse troopers set off from La Grange, Tennessee
Union troops and fleet occupy For Huger, Virginia
Union troops and fleet occupy For Huger, Virginia
Skirmish at Okolona and Birmingham, Mississippi (Grierson's Raid)
Skirmish at Okolona and Birmingham, Mississippi (Grierson's Raid)
Battle of Streight's Raid: Tuscumbia to Cedar Bluff, AL
Battle of Streight's Raid: Tuscumbia to Cedar Bluff, AL
Battle of Grand Gulf, Mississippi: Union navy ironclad warships attack Confederate fortifications
The Battle of Grand Gulf was fought on April 29, 1863, during the American Civil War. Union Army forces commanded by Major General Ulysses S.
Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia, 29,000 injured or died
Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia, 29,000 injured or died
Battle of Salem Church, Virginia
The Battle of Salem Church, and the Battle of Banks' Ford took place on May 3 and 4 respectively, 1863, in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, as part of the Chancellorsville Campaign of the American...
U.S. Civil War: Battle of Chancellorsville, action at Salem Church; Union Army withdraws
The Battle of Chancellorsville, April 30 – May 6, 1863, was a major battle of the American Civil War (1861–1865), and the principal engagement of the Chancellorsville campaign. Confederate General...
Irish boxer Joe Coburn KOs American Mike McCoole in the 67th round in his first defense of Heavyweight C'ship of America
Irish boxer Joe Coburn KOs American Mike McCoole in the 67th round in his first defense of Heavyweight C'ship of America in Charlestown, Maryland
Confederación Granadina becomes Estados Unidos de Colombia
Colombia, officially the Republic of Colombia, is a country primarily located in South America with insular regions in North America.
Battle of Raymond, Mississippi
The Battle of Raymond was fought on May 12, 1863, near Raymond, Mississippi, during the Vicksburg campaign of the American Civil War.
American Civil War: The Battle of Jackson, Mississippi takes place
The American Civil War (April 12, 1861 – May 26, 1865; also known by other names) was a civil war in the United States between the Union ("the North") and the Confederacy ("the South"), which was...
Battle of Champion's Hill, Mississippi - bloodiest action of Vicksburg Campaign
The Battle of Jackson was fought on May 14, 1863, outside Jackson, Mississippi, during the Vicksburg campaign of the American Civil War.
Battle of Big Black River Bridge, Mississippi
The Battle of Big Black River Bridge was fought on May 17, 1863, as part of the Vicksburg Campaign of the American Civil War.
Siege of Vicksburg, investment of city complete
Siege of Vicksburg, investment of city complete
Siege of Port Hudson, Louisiana, begins
Siege of Port Hudson, Louisiana, begins
War Department establishes Bureau of Colored Troops
United States Colored Troops (USCT) were Union Army regiments during the American Civil War that primarily comprised African Americans, with soldiers from other ethnic groups also serving in USCT...
Organization of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Battle Creek, Michigan
The Seventh-day Adventist Church (SDA) is an Adventist Christian denomination which is distinguished by its observance of Saturday, the seventh day of the week in the Christian (Gregorian) and the...
US Civil War: Confederate gunboat CSS Chattahoochee steam boiler explosion kills 19 crew members on the Apalachicola Riv
US Civil War: Confederate gunboat CSS Chattahoochee steam boiler explosion kills 19 crew members on the Apalachicola River, near Blountstown, Florida
First Black regiment, the 54th Massachusetts, leaves Boston to fight in the US Civil War
First Black regiment, the 54th Massachusetts, leaves Boston to fight in the US Civil War
Battle of Franklin's Crossing, Virginia (Deep Run)
The Battle of Franklin's Crossing, also known as Deep Run, took place near Fredericksburg, Virginia on June 5, 1863.
Battle of Milliken's Bend, Louisiana and Williamsport, Maryland
Battle of Milliken's Bend, Louisiana and Williamsport, Maryland
Battle of Brandy Station, Virginia (Fleetwood, Beverly Ford)
The Battle of Brandy Station, also called the Battle of Fleetwood Hill, was the largest predominantly cavalry engagement of the American Civil War, as well as the largest ever to take place on...
Samuel Butler publishes 1st part of "Erewhon" in Christchurch, New Zealand
Erewhon: or, Over the Range () is a utopian novel by English writer Samuel Butler, first published in 1872, set in a fictional country discovered and explored by the protagonist.
Battle of 2nd Winchester, Virginia; Confederate force defeats Union army garrison and captures Winchester
The Second Battle of Winchester was fought between June 13 and June 15, 1863, in Frederick County and Winchester, Virginia as part of the Gettysburg campaign during the American Civil War.
Second Battle at Winchester Virginia, ends in Federal defeat; 1350 casualties
Second Battle at Winchester Virginia, ends in Federal defeat; 1350 casualties
Battle at Middleburg, Virginia - 1st Rhode Island Cavalry routed trying to take the town
Battle at Middleburg, Virginia - 1st Rhode Island Cavalry routed trying to take the town
After long neglect, Confederates hurriedly fortify Vicksburg
After long neglect, Confederates hurriedly fortify Vicksburg
Battle at Middleburg, Virginia, with 100+ casualties
Battle at Middleburg, Virginia, with 100+ casualties
National Bank of Davenport, Iowa, is the first bank chartered under the National Banking and Currency Act
The National Banking Acts of 1863 and 1864 were two United States federal banking acts that established a system of national banks chartered at the federal level, and created the United States...
Battle at Upperville, Virginia, Union forces hold off Confederate advance, 389 causalities
Battle at Upperville, Virginia, Union forces hold off Confederate advance, 389 causalities
Tullahoma campaign, Tennessee
The Tullahoma campaign (or Middle Tennessee campaign) was a military operation conducted from June 24 to July 3, 1863, by the Union Army of the Cumberland under Maj. Gen.
Planning an invasion of Pennsylvania, Lee's army crosses Potomac
Planning an invasion of Pennsylvania, Lee's army crosses Potomac
US General George Meade replaces General Hooker to be more aggressive
George Gordon Meade (December 31, 1815 – November 6, 1872) was an American military officer who served in the United States Army and the Union army as a major general in command of the Army of the...
American Civil War: Second Battle of Donaldsonville, Louisiana - Union forces successfully repel Confederate attack on F
American Civil War: Second Battle of Donaldsonville, Louisiana - Union forces successfully repel Confederate attack on Fort Butler, on the Mississippi River
Battle at Westminster or Corbitt's Charge, Maryland: small unit of Delaware cavalry charge Confederate cavalry numbering
Battle at Westminster or Corbitt's Charge, Maryland: small unit of Delaware cavalry charge Confederate cavalry numbering nearly 6,000, crucially delaying their arrival at Gettysburg
Battles in Hanover, Pennsylvania: 80 casualties
Pennsylvania, officially the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, is a state located in the Mid-Atlantic, Northeastern, Appalachian, and Great Lakes regions of the United States.
Boise, Idaho, founded (now capital of Idaho)
Boise (locally also ) is the capital and most populous city in the U.S. state of Idaho. It is the county seat of Ada County. The population of the city was 235,685 at the 2020 census.
Battle of Jackson, Mississippi and Battle of Birdsong Ferry, Mississippi
The Jackson expedition, preceding and related to the siege of Jackson, immediately followed the Confederate surrender of Vicksburg, Mississippi on July 4, 1863, to Union Army Major General Ulysses S.
Battle of Williamsport, Maryland [-Jul 07]
Battle of Williamsport, Maryland [-Jul 07]
Confederate General John Hunt Morgan begins "Morgan's Raid", his cavalry raid into Indiana by leading 2,100 men across t
Confederate General John Hunt Morgan begins "Morgan's Raid", his cavalry raid into Indiana by leading 2,100 men across the Ohio river
Battle of Charleston, South Carolina, Morris Island [->Sep 06]
Battle of Charleston, South Carolina, Morris Island [->Sep 06]
Battle of Green River, Kentucky (Morgan's Ohio Raid)
Morgan's Raid was a diversionary incursion by Confederate cavalry into the Union states of Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia during the American Civil War.
Anti-draft protests in New York City turn violent, with over 100 people killed, including the lynching of Black individu
Anti-draft protests in New York City turn violent, with over 100 people killed, including the lynching of Black individuals, 2,000 injured, and 50 buildings burned; riots last for 3 days
Battle of Falling Waters, Maryland (Beaver Creek)
Battle of Falling Waters, Maryland (Beaver Creek)
President Davis orders service duty for confederate army
President Davis orders service duty for confederate army
Utrecht-Swells railway opens
Utrecht-Swells railway opens
Battle of Honey Springs - largest battle in Indian Territory
The Battle of Honey Springs, also known as the Affair at Elk Creek, on July 17, 1863, was an American Civil War engagement and an important victory for Union forces in their efforts to gain control...
Battle of Fort Wagner, South Carolina - Second assault
Battle of Fort Wagner, South Carolina - Second assault
Battle of Buffington's Island (St George Creek), Ohio
The Battle of Buffington Island, also known as the St. Georges Creek Skirmish, was an American Civil War engagement in Meigs County, Ohio, and Jackson County, West Virginia, on July 19, 1863, during...
Alexandra Park opens in North London, England
Alexandra Park is a 200-acre (80–hectare), Green Flag Award, and Green Heritage winning, diverse-landscape park, in the Borough of Haringey in north London adjacent to Hornsey, Muswell Hill and Wood...
Battle of Battle Mountain, Virginia
The Battle of Rich Mountain took place on July 11, 1861, in Randolph County, Virginia (now West Virginia) as part of the Operations in Western Virginia Campaign during the American Civil War.
Skirmish at Barbee's Crossroads, Virginia
Skirmish at Barbee's Crossroads, Virginia
Cavalry action near Brandy Station marks the end of the Gettysburg Campaign
The Gettysburg campaign was a military invasion of Pennsylvania by the main Confederate army under General Robert E. Lee in summer 1863.
Governor Seymour asks President Lincoln to suspend draft in New York
Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865) was the 16th president of the United States, serving from 1861 until his assassination in 1865.
American Civil War: Tennessee's "military" Governor Andrew Johnson frees his personal slaves, celebrated as a holiday by
American Civil War: Tennessee's "military" Governor Andrew Johnson frees his personal slaves, celebrated as a holiday by Tennessee African Americans in the early 20th century
Skirmish at Calfkiller Creek, Tennessee - Union troops attack Confederate scouts
Skirmish at Calfkiller Creek, Tennessee - Union troops attack Confederate scouts
Cambodia becomes a French protectorate
A protectorate, in the context of international relations, is a state or dependent territory that has willingly given up its foreign policy and international identity to another state for defence,...
First cargo of lumber leaves Burrard Inlet, Vancouver, BC
First cargo of lumber leaves Burrard Inlet, Vancouver, BC
Confederate submarine "CSS H.L. Hunley" arrives in Charleston on railroad cars from Mobile, Alabama, where it is built [
Confederate submarine "CSS H.L. Hunley" arrives in Charleston on railroad cars from Mobile, Alabama, where it is built [1]
Chickamauga campaign of the US Civil War begins in Georgia
Georgia was one of the original seven slave states that formed the Confederate States of America in February 1861, triggering the U.S. Civil War. The state governor, Democrat Joseph E.
Federal batteries and ships attack Fort Sumter in South Carolina
Fort Sumter is an incomplete sea fort at the mouth of Charleston Harbor, South Carolina, where the battle that sparked the American Civil War took place.
Battle of Rocky Gap, West Virginia (White Sulphur Springs): Colonel George S. Patton's Confederate forces defeat a Union
Battle of Rocky Gap, West Virginia (White Sulphur Springs): Colonel George S. Patton's Confederate forces defeat a Union brigade advance
6th Ohio Cavalry ambush at Barbees Crossroads Virginia
6th Ohio Cavalry ambush at Barbees Crossroads Virginia
Bread revolt in Mobile, Alabama
Bread revolt in Mobile, Alabama
After a 59-day siege, Confederate troops vacate Fort Wagner, SC, resulting in 1,700 casualties
After a 59-day siege, Confederate troops vacate Fort Wagner, SC, resulting in 1,700 casualties
A US Federal naval expedition arrives off Sabine Pass in the Gulf of Mexico, blockading the Texas coast
Texas declared its secession from the Union on February 1, 1861, and joined the Confederate States on March 2, 1861, after it had replaced its governor, Sam Houston, who had refused to take an oath...
Battle of Sabine Pass, Texas: 47 Texas volunteers repel federal forces
Battle of Sabine Pass, Texas: 47 Texas volunteers repel federal forces
Battle of Cumberland Gap, Tennessee
The September 7–9, 1863 fall of the Cumberland Gap was a victory for Union forces under the command of Ambrose Burnside during his American Civil War campaign for Knoxville.
US Civil War: The Battle of Bayou Fourche, also known as the Battle of Little Rock, begins and ends as Union forces capt
US Civil War: The Battle of Bayou Fourche, also known as the Battle of Little Rock, begins and ends as Union forces capture the city of Little Rock, Arkansas
Robert College of Istanbul, Turkey, the first American educational institution outside the United States, is founded by
Robert College of Istanbul, Turkey, the first American educational institution outside the United States, is founded by Christopher Robert, an American philanthropist
Pope Pius IX's encyclical On Persecution is published in New Granada
Pope Pius IX's encyclical On Persecution is published in New Granada
Battle of Shepherdstown, VA
The Battle of Antietam ( an-TEE-təm), also called the Battle of Sharpsburg, particularly in the Southern United States, took place during the American Civil War on September 17, 1862, between...
Union forces retreat to Chattanooga after defeat at Chickamauga
The Battle of Chickamauga, fought on September 18–20, 1863, between the United States Army and Confederate forces in the American Civil War, marked the end of a U.S.
Confederate siege of Chattanooga begins
The Chattanooga campaign was a series of maneuvers and battles in October and November 1863, during the American Civil War. Following the defeat of Maj. Gen. William S.
Jo Shelby's cavalry in action at Moffat Station, Arkansas
Jo Shelby's cavalry in action at Moffat Station, Arkansas
Dutch Breda-Tilburg railway opens
Tilburg railway station is a railway station located in Tilburg in the province of North Brabant, Netherlands.
Confederate sub David damages Union ship Ironsides
Confederate sub David damages Union ship Ironsides
Battle of Baxter Springs, Kansas
The Battle of Baxter Springs, more commonly known as the Baxter Springs Massacre, was a minor battle of the American Civil War fought on October 6, 1863, near the present-day town of Baxter Springs,...
Battle of Brandy Station, Virginia (Culpeper Court House, Bristoe Station)
The Bristoe campaign was a series of minor battles fought in Virginia during October and November 1863, in the American Civil War. Maj. Gen. George G.
Skirmish at Blue Springs, Tennessee (166 casualties)
Skirmish at Blue Springs, Tennessee (166 casualties)
Skirmish at Rheatown/Henderson's Mill, Tennessee
Skirmish at Rheatown/Henderson's Mill, Tennessee
Skirmish at Blountsville, Tennessee (50 casualties)
Skirmish at Blountsville, Tennessee (50 casualties)
Battle at Bristoe Station, Virginia (about 2000 casualties)
The Battle of Kelly's Ford, also known as the Battle of Kellysville or Kelleysville, took place on March 17, 1863, in Culpeper County, Virginia, as part of the cavalry operations along the...
Cliff House opens in San Francisco, first of many on the site
The Cliff House is a neo-classical style building perched on the headland above the cliffs just north of Ocean Beach.
Grant is given command of Union forces in the West
Grant is given command of Union forces in the West
Battle of Charleston, West Virginia
Charleston () is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of West Virginia. Located at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha rivers, it is the county seat of Kanawha County.
Battle of Buckland Mills, Virginia
The Battle of Buckland Mills, also known as The Buckland Races or Chestnut Hill, was fought on October 19, 1863, between Union and Confederate forces in the American Civil War.
Dutch railway to Harlingen opens
Franeker is a railway station located in Franeker, Netherlands. The station was opened on 27 October 1863 and is located on the Harlingen–Nieuweschans railway between Harlingen and Leeuwarden.
Battle at Wauhatchie, Georgia: 865 killed or injured
Battle at Wauhatchie, Georgia: 865 killed or injured
International Committee of Red Cross forms as result Geneva held conference (Nobel 1917, 1944, 1963)
International Committee of Red Cross forms as result Geneva held conference (Nobel 1917, 1944, 1963)
The Maori Wars resume as British forces in New Zealand, led by General Duncan Cameron, begin their invasion of the Waika
The Maori Wars resume as British forces in New Zealand, led by General Duncan Cameron, begin their invasion of the Waikato
-8] Averell's Raid (on)to Lewisburg, West Virginia
-8] Averell's Raid (on)to Lewisburg, West Virginia
Battle of Grand Coteau in Southwestern Louisiana in the American Civil War
Battle of Grand Coteau in Southwestern Louisiana in the American Civil War
Battle of Rogersville, Tennessee, Confederates recapture Rogersville
The Battle of Rogersville was a conflict in and around the town of Rogersville, Tennessee, on the morning of November 6, 1863, between the United States Army 3rd Brigade, 4th Cavalry Division and the...
Battles of Rappahannock Station and Kelly's Ford, Virginia
Battles of Rappahannock Station and Kelly's Ford, Virginia
Battle of Campbell's Station TN, 492 causalities
Battle of Campbell's Station TN, 492 causalities
-Dec 4th) Battle of Knoxville, Tennessee
The September 7–9, 1863 fall of the Cumberland Gap was a victory for Union forces under the command of Ambrose Burnside during his American Civil War campaign for Knoxville.
US Civil War: Battle of Chattanooga & Orchard Knob, Tennessee begins, ends with Union victory on 25 November
The Battle of Missionary Ridge, also known as the Battle of Chattanooga, was fought on November 25, 1863, as part of the Chattanooga campaign of the American Civil War.
Battle of Chattanooga, Columbia & Lookout Mt begins in Tennessee
Battle of Chattanooga, Columbia & Lookout Mt begins in Tennessee
Battle of Missionary Ridge, Tennessee
The Battle of Missionary Ridge, also known as the Battle of Chattanooga, was fought on November 25, 1863, as part of the Chattanooga campaign of the American Civil War.
-Dec 2] Mine Run campaign, VA
The Battle of Mine Run, also known as Payne's Farm, or New Hope Church, or the Mine Run campaign (November 27 – December 2, 1863), was conducted in Orange County, Virginia, in the American Civil...
-29] Battle at Fort Esperanza, Texas
The 8th Texas Infantry Regiment was a unit of volunteers recruited in Texas that fought in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War.
Confederate troops vacate Fort Esperanza, Texas, following the two-day Battle of Fort Esperanza
Confederate troops vacate Fort Esperanza, Texas, following the two-day Battle of Fort Esperanza
2,500 reported killed as result of fire at Jesuit Church of La Compana, Santiago, Chile
2,500 reported killed as result of fire at Jesuit Church of La Compana, Santiago, Chile
Battle of Bean's Station-Confederacy repulses Union in Tennessee
The Battle of Walker's Ford (December 2, 1863) saw three Confederate cavalry brigades led by Brigadier General William T. Martin attack a Union cavalry brigade under Colonel Felix W.
Romania's mountain railway, from Anina to Oravita, opens
Anina is a town in the Banat region of Romania, in Caraș-Severin County, with a population of 5,521 in 2021. The town administers one village, Steierdorf (German: Steierdorf, Hungarian: Stájerlak).
David Lloyd George is born
David Lloyd George is born
Anthony Hope is born
Anthony Hope, British novelist, known for english novelist, was born on 1863-02-09.
Henry Royce is born
Henry Royce, English engineer and car designer, known for english engineer and car designer, was born on 1863-03-27.
William Randolph Hearst is born
William Randolph Hearst, American newspaper publisher, known for american newspaper publisher, was born on 1863-04-29.
Bob Fitzsimmons is born
Bob Fitzsimmons athlete, known for cornish boxer, was born on 1863-05-26. Robert James Fitzsimmons (26 May 1863 – 22 October 1917) was a Cornish professional boxer who was the sport's first…
Reinhard Scheer is born
Reinhard Scheer, German admiral, known for german admiral, was born on 1863-09-30.
Gabriele D'Annunzio is born
Gabriele D'Annunzio, Italian writer, known for italian writer, was born on 1863-03-12.
Carlos I is born
Carlos I is born
Blanche Bingley is born
Blanche Bingley, English tennis player, known for english tennis player, was born on 1863-11-03. Blanche Bingley Hillyard was an English tennis player.
Alonzo Cushing dies
Alonzo Cushing, American union army officer, known for american union army officer, died on 1863-07-03.
Events
P. T. Barnum stages wedding of Tom Thumb & Mercy Lavinia Warren, both midgets, in NYC
P. T. Barnum stages wedding of Tom Thumb & Mercy Lavinia Warren, both midgets, in NYC
Prince of Wales, Albert Edward (21) weds Princess Alexandra of Denmark (18) at Windsor Castle in St. George's chapel
King Christian IX of Denmark (8 April 1818 – 29 January 1906), known as the "father-in-law of Europe", ruled Denmark from 1863 to 1906.
Confederate cruiser SS Georgiana is destroyed on her maiden voyage with a cargo of munitions and medicines valued at ove
Confederate cruiser SS Georgiana is destroyed on her maiden voyage with a cargo of munitions and medicines valued at over $1,000,000. The wreck is discovered exactly 102 years later by teenage diver and pioneer underwater archaeologist E. Lee Spence.
Bahá'u'lláh, founder of the Bahá'í Faith, enters the garden of Ridván near Baghdad. He makes his declaration as a Messen
Bahá'u'lláh, founder of the Bahá'í Faith, enters the garden of Ridván near Baghdad. He makes his declaration as a Messenger of God during the 12 days he spends there.
Battle of Gettysburg begins in Pennsylvania, Union forces halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virg
Battle of Gettysburg begins in Pennsylvania, Union forces halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia
Battle of Gettysburg, the largest battle ever fought on the American continent, ends in a major victory for the Union du
Battle of Gettysburg, the largest battle ever fought on the American continent, ends in a major victory for the Union during the US Civil War
British forces invade the Waikato in New Zealand, home of the Māori King Movement, beginning a new phase of the New Zeal
British forces invade the Waikato in New Zealand, home of the Māori King Movement, beginning a new phase of the New Zealand Wars between the colonial government and allied Māori tribes on one side and Māori on the other [1]
Indian Wars: Chief Pocatello of the Shoshone tribe signs the Treaty of Box Elder, promising to stop harassing emigrant t
Indian Wars: Chief Pocatello of the Shoshone tribe signs the Treaty of Box Elder, promising to stop harassing emigrant trails in southern Idaho and northern Utah
International conference begins in Geneva aimed at improving medical conditions on battlefields, leads to the formation
International conference begins in Geneva aimed at improving medical conditions on battlefields, leads to the formation of the Red Cross
Football Association forms in England, standardizing soccer and splitting from rugby
Football Association forms in England, standardizing soccer and splitting from rugby
Painter Edouard Manet (31) weds Suzanne Leenhoff (34)
Painter Edouard Manet (31) weds Suzanne Leenhoff (34)
US President Abraham Lincoln delivers his Gettysburg Address, starts with "Four score and seven years ago..."
Abraham Lincoln's tenure as the 16th president of the United States began on March 4, 1861, and ended upon his death on April 15, 1865, 42 days into his second term.
Abraham Lincoln issues his Amnesty Proclamation and plan for the Reconstruction of the South
The Ten Percent Plan, formally the Proclamation of Amnesty and Reconstruction (13 Stat.
Battle of Stone's River ends with a Union victory
The Battle of Stones River, also known as the Second Battle of Murfreesboro, was fought from December 31, 1862, to January 2, 1863, in Middle Tennessee, as the culmination of the Stones River...
Four-wheeled roller skates are patented by James Plimpton in New York City
The documented history of inline skates dates back to the early 18th century, when enterprising inventors sought to make boots roll on wheels to emulate the gliding of ice blades on dry land.
American Civil War: Second Battle of Springfield
The Second Battle of Springfield took place during the American Civil War on January 8, 1863, in Springfield, Missouri. It is sometimes known as The Battle of Springfield.
-Jan 11th] Battle of Arkansas Post, Arkansa (Fort Hindman)
-Jan 11th] Battle of Arkansas Post, Arkansa (Fort Hindman)
First underground railway opens in London
The history of the London Underground began in the 19th century with the construction of the Metropolitan Railway, the world's first underground railway.
Naval engagement near Galveston between CSS Alabama and USS Hatteras
CSS Alabama was a screw sloop-of-war built in 1862 for the Confederate States Navy. She was built in Birkenhead on the River Mersey opposite Liverpool, England, by John Laird Sons and Company.
Confederate President Davis delivers his "State of Confederacy" address
Confederate President Davis delivers his "State of Confederacy" address
Chenille yarn making machine patented by William Canter in NYC
Chenille yarn making machine patented by William Canter in NYC
Battle between gunboats at Bayou Teche, Louisiana
Bayou Teche (Louisiana French: Bayou Têche) is a 125-mile-long (201 km) waterway in south central Louisiana in the United States.
First US newspaper printed on wood-pulp paper, Boston Morning Journal
First US newspaper printed on wood-pulp paper, Boston Morning Journal
-Aug 23rd) Cruise of CSS Florida
-Aug 23rd) Cruise of CSS Florida
Civil War skirmish near Newtown, Virginia
Civil War skirmish near Newtown, Virginia
General Mieroslawski appointed dictator of Poland
A dictator is a political leader who possesses absolute power. A dictatorship is defined as a state ruled by a dictator.
City of Dublin leases part of the Cattle Market for 100,000 years
City of Dublin leases part of the Cattle Market for 100,000 years
The January Uprising, an insurrection in Russia's Kingdom of Poland aimed at restoration of the Polish–Lithuanian Common
The January Uprising, an insurrection in Russia's Kingdom of Poland aimed at restoration of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth begins; carries on for 1-1/2 years, but fails
General Joseph Hooker replaces Burnside as head of Army of Potomac
Joseph Hooker was an American Civil War general for the Union, chiefly remembered for his decisive defeat by Confederate General Robert E. Lee at the Battle of Chancellorsville in 1863.
American Civil War: Massachusetts Governor receives permission from Secretary of War to raise a militia organization for
American Civil War: Massachusetts Governor receives permission from Secretary of War to raise a militia organization for men of African descent (54th Massachusetts Regiment)
Bear River Massacre: American soldiers slaughter hundreds of Native Americans at the confluence of the Bear River and Be
Bear River Massacre: American soldiers slaughter hundreds of Native Americans at the confluence of the Bear River and Beaver Creek in present day Idaho
1st black Civil War regiment, South Carolina Volunteers, mustered into US army
The 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment is an infantry regiment that saw extensive service in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
HMS Orpheus sinks off the coast of Auckland, New Zealand, killing 189
HMS Orpheus was a Jason-class Royal Navy corvette that served as the flagship of the Australian squadron.
1st US fire extinguisher patent granted to Alanson Crane of Virginia
1st US fire extinguisher patent granted to Alanson Crane of Virginia
Arizona Territory created
The Territory of Arizona, commonly known as the Arizona Territory, was a territory of the United States that existed from February 24, 1863, until February 14, 1912, when the remaining extent of the...
Congress creates national banking system, comptroller of currency
The National Banking Acts of 1863 and 1864 were two United States federal banking acts that established a system of national banks chartered at the federal level, and created the United States...
Confederate raider "Nashville" sinks near Fort McAllister, Georgia
The First Battle of Fort McAllister was a series of naval attacks that took place from January 27 to March 3, 1863, at Fort McAllister in Bryan County, Georgia, during the American Civil War.
1st US wartime military conscription bill enacted
1st US wartime military conscription bill enacted
Battle of Thompson's Station, Tennessee
Thompson's Station is a town in Williamson County, Tennessee. The population has grown from 2,194 at the 2010 Census to 7,485 in the 2020 Census. Locations in Thompson's Station listed on the U.S.
Battle of Kelly's Ford, Virginia with 211 causalities
Battle of Kelly's Ford, Virginia with 211 causalities
Naval Engagement at Havana, Cuba: USS Henrick Hudson vs Confederate blockade runner Wild Pigeon
Naval Engagement at Havana, Cuba: USS Henrick Hudson vs Confederate blockade runner Wild Pigeon
Voters in West Virginia approve gradual emancipation of slaves
The Emancipation Proclamation, officially Proclamation 95, was a presidential proclamation and executive order issued by United States president Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, during the...
Danish prince Wilhelm Georg of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glucksburg chosen as king George of Greece
George I was King of Greece from 30 March 1863 until his assassination on 18 March 1913. Originally a Danish prince, George was born in Copenhagen, and seemed destined for a career in the Royal...
Battle of Grand Gulf, Mississippi and Dinwiddie Court House, Virginia
Battle of Grand Gulf, Mississippi and Dinwiddie Court House, Virginia
1st wartime conscription law in US goes into effect
1st wartime conscription law in US goes into effect
Bread revolt in Richmond, Virginia
The Southern bread riots were events of civil unrest in the Confederacy during the American Civil War, perpetrated mostly by women in March and April 1863.
Battle of Charleston, South Carolina failed Federal fleet attack on Fort Sumter
The Battle of Fort Sumter (also the Attack on Fort Sumter or the Fall of Fort Sumter) (April 12–13, 1861) was the bombardment of Fort Sumter near Charleston, South Carolina, by the South Carolina...
Confederate General Earl Van Dorn attacks at Franklin, Tennessee
Earl Van Dorn (September 17, 1820 – May 7, 1863) was an American Major General who started his military career as a United States Army officer and became famous for successfully leading two defenses...
Battle of Suffolk, Virginia (Norfleet House)
The siege of Suffolk, also known as the Battle of Suffolk, took place from April 11 to May 4, 1863, near Suffolk, Virginia during the American Civil War.
-14] Gunboat battle at Bayou Teche, Louisiana
The 5th Louisiana Field Battery was an artillery unit recruited from volunteers in Louisiana that fought in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War.
Battle of Irish Bend, Louisiana (Fort Bisland)
The Battle of Irish Bend, also known as Nerson's Woods or Franklin, took place during the American Civil War.
American inventor William Bullock patents continuous-roll printing press
American inventor William Bullock patents continuous-roll printing press
Grierson's raid begins as Colonel Grierson and 1700 horse troopers set off from La Grange, Tennessee
Grierson's raid begins as Colonel Grierson and 1700 horse troopers set off from La Grange, Tennessee
Union troops and fleet occupy For Huger, Virginia
Union troops and fleet occupy For Huger, Virginia
Skirmish at Okolona and Birmingham, Mississippi (Grierson's Raid)
Skirmish at Okolona and Birmingham, Mississippi (Grierson's Raid)
Battle of Streight's Raid: Tuscumbia to Cedar Bluff, AL
Battle of Streight's Raid: Tuscumbia to Cedar Bluff, AL
Battle of Grand Gulf, Mississippi: Union navy ironclad warships attack Confederate fortifications
The Battle of Grand Gulf was fought on April 29, 1863, during the American Civil War. Union Army forces commanded by Major General Ulysses S.
Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia, 29,000 injured or died
Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia, 29,000 injured or died
Battle of Salem Church, Virginia
The Battle of Salem Church, and the Battle of Banks' Ford took place on May 3 and 4 respectively, 1863, in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, as part of the Chancellorsville Campaign of the American...
U.S. Civil War: Battle of Chancellorsville, action at Salem Church; Union Army withdraws
The Battle of Chancellorsville, April 30 – May 6, 1863, was a major battle of the American Civil War (1861–1865), and the principal engagement of the Chancellorsville campaign. Confederate General...
Irish boxer Joe Coburn KOs American Mike McCoole in the 67th round in his first defense of Heavyweight C'ship of America
Irish boxer Joe Coburn KOs American Mike McCoole in the 67th round in his first defense of Heavyweight C'ship of America in Charlestown, Maryland
Confederación Granadina becomes Estados Unidos de Colombia
Colombia, officially the Republic of Colombia, is a country primarily located in South America with insular regions in North America.
Battle of Raymond, Mississippi
The Battle of Raymond was fought on May 12, 1863, near Raymond, Mississippi, during the Vicksburg campaign of the American Civil War.
American Civil War: The Battle of Jackson, Mississippi takes place
The American Civil War (April 12, 1861 – May 26, 1865; also known by other names) was a civil war in the United States between the Union ("the North") and the Confederacy ("the South"), which was...
Battle of Champion's Hill, Mississippi - bloodiest action of Vicksburg Campaign
The Battle of Jackson was fought on May 14, 1863, outside Jackson, Mississippi, during the Vicksburg campaign of the American Civil War.
Battle of Big Black River Bridge, Mississippi
The Battle of Big Black River Bridge was fought on May 17, 1863, as part of the Vicksburg Campaign of the American Civil War.
Siege of Vicksburg, investment of city complete
Siege of Vicksburg, investment of city complete
Siege of Port Hudson, Louisiana, begins
Siege of Port Hudson, Louisiana, begins
War Department establishes Bureau of Colored Troops
United States Colored Troops (USCT) were Union Army regiments during the American Civil War that primarily comprised African Americans, with soldiers from other ethnic groups also serving in USCT...
Organization of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Battle Creek, Michigan
The Seventh-day Adventist Church (SDA) is an Adventist Christian denomination which is distinguished by its observance of Saturday, the seventh day of the week in the Christian (Gregorian) and the...
US Civil War: Confederate gunboat CSS Chattahoochee steam boiler explosion kills 19 crew members on the Apalachicola Riv
US Civil War: Confederate gunboat CSS Chattahoochee steam boiler explosion kills 19 crew members on the Apalachicola River, near Blountstown, Florida
First Black regiment, the 54th Massachusetts, leaves Boston to fight in the US Civil War
First Black regiment, the 54th Massachusetts, leaves Boston to fight in the US Civil War
Battle of Franklin's Crossing, Virginia (Deep Run)
The Battle of Franklin's Crossing, also known as Deep Run, took place near Fredericksburg, Virginia on June 5, 1863.
Battle of Milliken's Bend, Louisiana and Williamsport, Maryland
Battle of Milliken's Bend, Louisiana and Williamsport, Maryland
Battle of Brandy Station, Virginia (Fleetwood, Beverly Ford)
The Battle of Brandy Station, also called the Battle of Fleetwood Hill, was the largest predominantly cavalry engagement of the American Civil War, as well as the largest ever to take place on...
Samuel Butler publishes 1st part of "Erewhon" in Christchurch, New Zealand
Erewhon: or, Over the Range () is a utopian novel by English writer Samuel Butler, first published in 1872, set in a fictional country discovered and explored by the protagonist.
Battle of 2nd Winchester, Virginia; Confederate force defeats Union army garrison and captures Winchester
The Second Battle of Winchester was fought between June 13 and June 15, 1863, in Frederick County and Winchester, Virginia as part of the Gettysburg campaign during the American Civil War.
Second Battle at Winchester Virginia, ends in Federal defeat; 1350 casualties
Second Battle at Winchester Virginia, ends in Federal defeat; 1350 casualties
Battle at Middleburg, Virginia - 1st Rhode Island Cavalry routed trying to take the town
Battle at Middleburg, Virginia - 1st Rhode Island Cavalry routed trying to take the town
After long neglect, Confederates hurriedly fortify Vicksburg
After long neglect, Confederates hurriedly fortify Vicksburg
Battle at Middleburg, Virginia, with 100+ casualties
Battle at Middleburg, Virginia, with 100+ casualties
National Bank of Davenport, Iowa, is the first bank chartered under the National Banking and Currency Act
The National Banking Acts of 1863 and 1864 were two United States federal banking acts that established a system of national banks chartered at the federal level, and created the United States...
Battle at Upperville, Virginia, Union forces hold off Confederate advance, 389 causalities
Battle at Upperville, Virginia, Union forces hold off Confederate advance, 389 causalities
Tullahoma campaign, Tennessee
The Tullahoma campaign (or Middle Tennessee campaign) was a military operation conducted from June 24 to July 3, 1863, by the Union Army of the Cumberland under Maj. Gen.
Planning an invasion of Pennsylvania, Lee's army crosses Potomac
Planning an invasion of Pennsylvania, Lee's army crosses Potomac
US General George Meade replaces General Hooker to be more aggressive
George Gordon Meade (December 31, 1815 – November 6, 1872) was an American military officer who served in the United States Army and the Union army as a major general in command of the Army of the...
American Civil War: Second Battle of Donaldsonville, Louisiana - Union forces successfully repel Confederate attack on F
American Civil War: Second Battle of Donaldsonville, Louisiana - Union forces successfully repel Confederate attack on Fort Butler, on the Mississippi River
Battle at Westminster or Corbitt's Charge, Maryland: small unit of Delaware cavalry charge Confederate cavalry numbering
Battle at Westminster or Corbitt's Charge, Maryland: small unit of Delaware cavalry charge Confederate cavalry numbering nearly 6,000, crucially delaying their arrival at Gettysburg
Battles in Hanover, Pennsylvania: 80 casualties
Pennsylvania, officially the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, is a state located in the Mid-Atlantic, Northeastern, Appalachian, and Great Lakes regions of the United States.
Boise, Idaho, founded (now capital of Idaho)
Boise (locally also ) is the capital and most populous city in the U.S. state of Idaho. It is the county seat of Ada County. The population of the city was 235,685 at the 2020 census.
Battle of Jackson, Mississippi and Battle of Birdsong Ferry, Mississippi
The Jackson expedition, preceding and related to the siege of Jackson, immediately followed the Confederate surrender of Vicksburg, Mississippi on July 4, 1863, to Union Army Major General Ulysses S.
Battle of Williamsport, Maryland [-Jul 07]
Battle of Williamsport, Maryland [-Jul 07]
Confederate General John Hunt Morgan begins "Morgan's Raid", his cavalry raid into Indiana by leading 2,100 men across t
Confederate General John Hunt Morgan begins "Morgan's Raid", his cavalry raid into Indiana by leading 2,100 men across the Ohio river
Battle of Charleston, South Carolina, Morris Island [->Sep 06]
Battle of Charleston, South Carolina, Morris Island [->Sep 06]
Battle of Green River, Kentucky (Morgan's Ohio Raid)
Morgan's Raid was a diversionary incursion by Confederate cavalry into the Union states of Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia during the American Civil War.
Anti-draft protests in New York City turn violent, with over 100 people killed, including the lynching of Black individu
Anti-draft protests in New York City turn violent, with over 100 people killed, including the lynching of Black individuals, 2,000 injured, and 50 buildings burned; riots last for 3 days
Battle of Falling Waters, Maryland (Beaver Creek)
Battle of Falling Waters, Maryland (Beaver Creek)
President Davis orders service duty for confederate army
President Davis orders service duty for confederate army
Utrecht-Swells railway opens
Utrecht-Swells railway opens
Battle of Honey Springs - largest battle in Indian Territory
The Battle of Honey Springs, also known as the Affair at Elk Creek, on July 17, 1863, was an American Civil War engagement and an important victory for Union forces in their efforts to gain control...
Battle of Fort Wagner, South Carolina - Second assault
Battle of Fort Wagner, South Carolina - Second assault
Battle of Buffington's Island (St George Creek), Ohio
The Battle of Buffington Island, also known as the St. Georges Creek Skirmish, was an American Civil War engagement in Meigs County, Ohio, and Jackson County, West Virginia, on July 19, 1863, during...
Alexandra Park opens in North London, England
Alexandra Park is a 200-acre (80–hectare), Green Flag Award, and Green Heritage winning, diverse-landscape park, in the Borough of Haringey in north London adjacent to Hornsey, Muswell Hill and Wood...
Battle of Battle Mountain, Virginia
The Battle of Rich Mountain took place on July 11, 1861, in Randolph County, Virginia (now West Virginia) as part of the Operations in Western Virginia Campaign during the American Civil War.
Skirmish at Barbee's Crossroads, Virginia
Skirmish at Barbee's Crossroads, Virginia
Cavalry action near Brandy Station marks the end of the Gettysburg Campaign
The Gettysburg campaign was a military invasion of Pennsylvania by the main Confederate army under General Robert E. Lee in summer 1863.
Governor Seymour asks President Lincoln to suspend draft in New York
Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865) was the 16th president of the United States, serving from 1861 until his assassination in 1865.
American Civil War: Tennessee's "military" Governor Andrew Johnson frees his personal slaves, celebrated as a holiday by
American Civil War: Tennessee's "military" Governor Andrew Johnson frees his personal slaves, celebrated as a holiday by Tennessee African Americans in the early 20th century
Skirmish at Calfkiller Creek, Tennessee - Union troops attack Confederate scouts
Skirmish at Calfkiller Creek, Tennessee - Union troops attack Confederate scouts
Cambodia becomes a French protectorate
A protectorate, in the context of international relations, is a state or dependent territory that has willingly given up its foreign policy and international identity to another state for defence,...
First cargo of lumber leaves Burrard Inlet, Vancouver, BC
First cargo of lumber leaves Burrard Inlet, Vancouver, BC
Confederate submarine "CSS H.L. Hunley" arrives in Charleston on railroad cars from Mobile, Alabama, where it is built [
Confederate submarine "CSS H.L. Hunley" arrives in Charleston on railroad cars from Mobile, Alabama, where it is built [1]
Chickamauga campaign of the US Civil War begins in Georgia
Georgia was one of the original seven slave states that formed the Confederate States of America in February 1861, triggering the U.S. Civil War. The state governor, Democrat Joseph E.
Federal batteries and ships attack Fort Sumter in South Carolina
Fort Sumter is an incomplete sea fort at the mouth of Charleston Harbor, South Carolina, where the battle that sparked the American Civil War took place.
Battle of Rocky Gap, West Virginia (White Sulphur Springs): Colonel George S. Patton's Confederate forces defeat a Union
Battle of Rocky Gap, West Virginia (White Sulphur Springs): Colonel George S. Patton's Confederate forces defeat a Union brigade advance
6th Ohio Cavalry ambush at Barbees Crossroads Virginia
6th Ohio Cavalry ambush at Barbees Crossroads Virginia
Bread revolt in Mobile, Alabama
Bread revolt in Mobile, Alabama
After a 59-day siege, Confederate troops vacate Fort Wagner, SC, resulting in 1,700 casualties
After a 59-day siege, Confederate troops vacate Fort Wagner, SC, resulting in 1,700 casualties
A US Federal naval expedition arrives off Sabine Pass in the Gulf of Mexico, blockading the Texas coast
Texas declared its secession from the Union on February 1, 1861, and joined the Confederate States on March 2, 1861, after it had replaced its governor, Sam Houston, who had refused to take an oath...
Battle of Sabine Pass, Texas: 47 Texas volunteers repel federal forces
Battle of Sabine Pass, Texas: 47 Texas volunteers repel federal forces
Battle of Cumberland Gap, Tennessee
The September 7–9, 1863 fall of the Cumberland Gap was a victory for Union forces under the command of Ambrose Burnside during his American Civil War campaign for Knoxville.
US Civil War: The Battle of Bayou Fourche, also known as the Battle of Little Rock, begins and ends as Union forces capt
US Civil War: The Battle of Bayou Fourche, also known as the Battle of Little Rock, begins and ends as Union forces capture the city of Little Rock, Arkansas
Robert College of Istanbul, Turkey, the first American educational institution outside the United States, is founded by
Robert College of Istanbul, Turkey, the first American educational institution outside the United States, is founded by Christopher Robert, an American philanthropist
Pope Pius IX's encyclical On Persecution is published in New Granada
Pope Pius IX's encyclical On Persecution is published in New Granada
Battle of Shepherdstown, VA
The Battle of Antietam ( an-TEE-təm), also called the Battle of Sharpsburg, particularly in the Southern United States, took place during the American Civil War on September 17, 1862, between...
Union forces retreat to Chattanooga after defeat at Chickamauga
The Battle of Chickamauga, fought on September 18–20, 1863, between the United States Army and Confederate forces in the American Civil War, marked the end of a U.S.
Confederate siege of Chattanooga begins
The Chattanooga campaign was a series of maneuvers and battles in October and November 1863, during the American Civil War. Following the defeat of Maj. Gen. William S.
Jo Shelby's cavalry in action at Moffat Station, Arkansas
Jo Shelby's cavalry in action at Moffat Station, Arkansas
Dutch Breda-Tilburg railway opens
Tilburg railway station is a railway station located in Tilburg in the province of North Brabant, Netherlands.
Confederate sub David damages Union ship Ironsides
Confederate sub David damages Union ship Ironsides
Battle of Baxter Springs, Kansas
The Battle of Baxter Springs, more commonly known as the Baxter Springs Massacre, was a minor battle of the American Civil War fought on October 6, 1863, near the present-day town of Baxter Springs,...
Battle of Brandy Station, Virginia (Culpeper Court House, Bristoe Station)
The Bristoe campaign was a series of minor battles fought in Virginia during October and November 1863, in the American Civil War. Maj. Gen. George G.
Skirmish at Blue Springs, Tennessee (166 casualties)
Skirmish at Blue Springs, Tennessee (166 casualties)
Skirmish at Rheatown/Henderson's Mill, Tennessee
Skirmish at Rheatown/Henderson's Mill, Tennessee
Skirmish at Blountsville, Tennessee (50 casualties)
Skirmish at Blountsville, Tennessee (50 casualties)
Battle at Bristoe Station, Virginia (about 2000 casualties)
The Battle of Kelly's Ford, also known as the Battle of Kellysville or Kelleysville, took place on March 17, 1863, in Culpeper County, Virginia, as part of the cavalry operations along the...
Cliff House opens in San Francisco, first of many on the site
The Cliff House is a neo-classical style building perched on the headland above the cliffs just north of Ocean Beach.
Grant is given command of Union forces in the West
Grant is given command of Union forces in the West
Battle of Charleston, West Virginia
Charleston () is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of West Virginia. Located at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha rivers, it is the county seat of Kanawha County.
Battle of Buckland Mills, Virginia
The Battle of Buckland Mills, also known as The Buckland Races or Chestnut Hill, was fought on October 19, 1863, between Union and Confederate forces in the American Civil War.
Dutch railway to Harlingen opens
Franeker is a railway station located in Franeker, Netherlands. The station was opened on 27 October 1863 and is located on the Harlingen–Nieuweschans railway between Harlingen and Leeuwarden.
Battle at Wauhatchie, Georgia: 865 killed or injured
Battle at Wauhatchie, Georgia: 865 killed or injured
International Committee of Red Cross forms as result Geneva held conference (Nobel 1917, 1944, 1963)
International Committee of Red Cross forms as result Geneva held conference (Nobel 1917, 1944, 1963)
The Maori Wars resume as British forces in New Zealand, led by General Duncan Cameron, begin their invasion of the Waika
The Maori Wars resume as British forces in New Zealand, led by General Duncan Cameron, begin their invasion of the Waikato
-8] Averell's Raid (on)to Lewisburg, West Virginia
-8] Averell's Raid (on)to Lewisburg, West Virginia
Battle of Grand Coteau in Southwestern Louisiana in the American Civil War
Battle of Grand Coteau in Southwestern Louisiana in the American Civil War
Battle of Rogersville, Tennessee, Confederates recapture Rogersville
The Battle of Rogersville was a conflict in and around the town of Rogersville, Tennessee, on the morning of November 6, 1863, between the United States Army 3rd Brigade, 4th Cavalry Division and the...
Battles of Rappahannock Station and Kelly's Ford, Virginia
Battles of Rappahannock Station and Kelly's Ford, Virginia
Battle of Campbell's Station TN, 492 causalities
Battle of Campbell's Station TN, 492 causalities
-Dec 4th) Battle of Knoxville, Tennessee
The September 7–9, 1863 fall of the Cumberland Gap was a victory for Union forces under the command of Ambrose Burnside during his American Civil War campaign for Knoxville.
US Civil War: Battle of Chattanooga & Orchard Knob, Tennessee begins, ends with Union victory on 25 November
The Battle of Missionary Ridge, also known as the Battle of Chattanooga, was fought on November 25, 1863, as part of the Chattanooga campaign of the American Civil War.
Battle of Chattanooga, Columbia & Lookout Mt begins in Tennessee
Battle of Chattanooga, Columbia & Lookout Mt begins in Tennessee
Battle of Missionary Ridge, Tennessee
The Battle of Missionary Ridge, also known as the Battle of Chattanooga, was fought on November 25, 1863, as part of the Chattanooga campaign of the American Civil War.
-Dec 2] Mine Run campaign, VA
The Battle of Mine Run, also known as Payne's Farm, or New Hope Church, or the Mine Run campaign (November 27 – December 2, 1863), was conducted in Orange County, Virginia, in the American Civil...
-29] Battle at Fort Esperanza, Texas
The 8th Texas Infantry Regiment was a unit of volunteers recruited in Texas that fought in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War.
Confederate troops vacate Fort Esperanza, Texas, following the two-day Battle of Fort Esperanza
Confederate troops vacate Fort Esperanza, Texas, following the two-day Battle of Fort Esperanza
2,500 reported killed as result of fire at Jesuit Church of La Compana, Santiago, Chile
2,500 reported killed as result of fire at Jesuit Church of La Compana, Santiago, Chile
Battle of Bean's Station-Confederacy repulses Union in Tennessee
The Battle of Walker's Ford (December 2, 1863) saw three Confederate cavalry brigades led by Brigadier General William T. Martin attack a Union cavalry brigade under Colonel Felix W.
Romania's mountain railway, from Anina to Oravita, opens
Anina is a town in the Banat region of Romania, in Caraș-Severin County, with a population of 5,521 in 2021. The town administers one village, Steierdorf (German: Steierdorf, Hungarian: Stájerlak).
Famous Births
birth
David Lloyd George is born
David Lloyd George is born
birth
Anthony Hope is born
Anthony Hope, British novelist, known for english novelist, was born on 1863-02-09.
birth
Henry Royce is born
Henry Royce, English engineer and car designer, known for english engineer and car designer, was born on 1863-03-27.
birth
William Randolph Hearst is born
William Randolph Hearst, American newspaper publisher, known for american newspaper publisher, was born on 1863-04-29.
birth
Bob Fitzsimmons is born
Bob Fitzsimmons athlete, known for cornish boxer, was born on 1863-05-26. Robert James Fitzsimmons (26 May 1863 – 22 October 1917) was a Cornish professional boxer who was the sport's first…
birth
Reinhard Scheer is born
Reinhard Scheer, German admiral, known for german admiral, was born on 1863-09-30.
birth
Gabriele D'Annunzio is born
Gabriele D'Annunzio, Italian writer, known for italian writer, was born on 1863-03-12.
birth
Carlos I is born
Carlos I is born
birth
Blanche Bingley is born
Blanche Bingley, English tennis player, known for english tennis player, was born on 1863-11-03. Blanche Bingley Hillyard was an English tennis player.
Notable Deaths
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened in 1863?
- In 1863, there were 160 significant historical events. Notable events include Abraham Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation to free enslaved people in Confederate states, P. T. Barnum stages wedding of Tom Thumb & Mercy Lavinia Warren, both midgets, in NYC, Prince of Wales, Albert Edward (21) weds Princess Alexandra of Denmark (18) at Windsor Castle in St. George's chapel.
- Who was born in 1863?
- 9 notable figures were born in 1863, including David Lloyd George is born, Anthony Hope is born, Henry Royce is born.
- Who died in 1863?
- 1 notable figure passed away in 1863, including Alonzo Cushing dies.