1850-1859

University of Utah opens

Feb 28, 1850

University of Utah, originally known as Deseret University, is opened in 1850 before Utah was a state. It was opened by pioneering Mormons.

Refrigeration Machine Patented

May 6, 1851

Dr. John Gorrie patents his refrigeration machine he invented because he believed that heat caused malaria. His machine cooled things and made ice.

Uncle Sam Cartoon Debut

Mar 13, 1852

This iconic cartoon figure made its first debut in the New York Lantern weekly.

First US Fire Engine

Jan 1, 1853

First US fire engine enters service on New Years of 1853. They were horse drawn and were later replace by the steam engine.

Napolean III Marries

Jan 19, 1853

Emperor Napoleon III marries Eugenie Maria de Montijo. Eugenie was a spanish noblewoman and was the last Empress Consort of France.

Charge of The Light Brigade

Oct 25, 1854

During the Crimean War this battle occured that was originally known as the Battle of Balaklava. Under orders Lt. Gen. Lord Cardigan lead the Light Brigade of 673 men through the valley against Russian forces. 409 men died in this battle.

"Charge of the Light Brigade" Published

Dec 9, 1854

Lord Tennyson's well-known poem "Charge of the Light Brigade" is published, This poem was based on the Crimean War's Battle the Charge of the Light Brigade and actually made it famous.

"Rip Van Winkle" Opens in NYC

Sep 27, 1855

The second American opera "Rip Van Winkle" opens in New York City.

Crimean War Comes to Peace

Apr 29, 1856

England and Russian come to peace drawing the Crimean War to a close.

Dan Sickles Case

Feb 19, 1859

Daniel Sickles was charged with murdering a district attorney. It was the first time defense was sucsefully used and the first time someone pleaded insanity to prove innocence. The jury accepted this and acquitted him.