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Invention of Telephone
The telephone was invented by Alexander Graham Bell. It allowed people to speak across distances, but it was expensive and only the richest families could afford them for a very long time. -
The Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition
A world's fair that was meant to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the United States opening 285 acres in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. -
The Battle of Little Big Horn
Lt. Colonel George Custer and his 7th U.S. Cavalry engage the Sioux and Cheyenne Indians above the Little Big Horn River. All 264 members of the 7th Cavalry and Custer vanish in the battle, the most complete rout in American military history. -
Tomas Edison Patents
Edison patents the cylinder phonograph. -
James A. Garfield is elected
A Republication elected president over Winfield S. Hancock. He received 214 Electoral College votes and won the majority of the popular vote. -
Formation of the Oriental Telephone Company
Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell form the Oriental Telephone Company. -
The Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act
The Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act is passed by Congress, overhauling federal civil service and establishing the U.S. Civil Service agency. -
The Haymarket riot
The Haymarket riot and bombing occurred in Chicago, Illinois, three days after the start of a general strike in the United States that pushed for an eight hour workday. This act would be followed by additional labor battles for that worker right favored by unions. -
The Nez Perce War
This war was between the Nez Perce tribe and the United States Army. -
Phonograph
The prototype for the commercial phonograph is completed by Thomas A. Edison and staff at his laboratory near Glenmont, his estate in West Orange, New Jersey. -
The Battle of the Wounded Knee
The Battle of Wounded Knee in South Dakota, occurs in the last major battle between United States troops and Indians. Hundreds of Indian men, women, and children are slain, along with twenty-nine soldiers. -
The General Electric Company is formed
The General Electric Company is formed, merging the Edison General Electric Company with the Thomson-Houston Company. -
Plessy vs. Ferguson
Plessy versus Ferguson decision by the Supreme Court states that racial segregation is approved under the "separate but equal" doctrine. -
William McKinley's election
Republican William McKinley claims victory in the presidential election with a majority of Electoral College voters. -
Blockade of Cuba
The blockade of Cuba begins when the United States Navy aids independence forces within Cuba. Several days later, the U.S.A. declares war on Spain, backdating its declaration to April 20.