1870
Franco-Prussian War Declared
Bismarck, by editing a telegram from the baths at Ems to sound insulting, baited Napoleon III into declaring war on Prussia.
Dogali Falls in Japan's Reforms
The Meiji government abolished the daimyo system of feudal domains and replaced them with prefectures under central control.
Sedan
Trapped in the little fortress town of Sedan with his army ruined, Napoleon III surrendered his sword and eighty-three thousand men to Wilhelm I of Prussia.
Rome Taken by Italy
With French troops withdrawn to fight Prussia, Italian bersaglieri breached the Aurelian walls at Porta Pia and entered Rome.
Metz Capitulates
Marshal Bazaine surrendered the great fortress of Metz and the last intact French field army - 180,000 men - without a serious battle.
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Frequently asked
What happened in the year 1870?
Saeculum lists 5 events from 1870. The most significant is Franco-Prussian War Declared: Bismarck, by editing a telegram from the baths at Ems to sound insulting, baited Napoleon III into declaring war on Prussia.
What era was 1870 part of?
1870 falls within the Industrial Age (1801-1900). Steam, empire, and the unmaking of the old order.
Which regions saw notable events in 1870?
The events from 1870 span Europe and East Asia.