Category Archives: 1880s

Tchaikovsky’s ‘1812 Overture’ debuts in Moscow 130 years ago today (1882)


Video: 'Tchaikovsky's famous 1812 Overture'

(Sunday, August 20, 1882) — Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, written in 1880 to commemorate Russia’s defense of their fatherland against Napoleon’s invading Grande Armée in 1812, premiered today in the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour in Moscow.

The overture is best known for its climactic volley of cannon fire, ringing chimes, and brass fanfare finale.

Hatfields and McCoys feud erupts into full-scale violence 130 years ago today (1882)


Video: 'The Hatfields and McCoys - A Documentary' (Ellison Hatfield attacked at 2:15)

(Monday, August 7, 1882) — The famous feud between the Hatfields of West Virginia and the McCoys of Kentucky erupted into full-scale violence today when when Ellison Hatfield, brother of William Anderson “Devil Anse” Hatfield, was fatally wounded by three of Roseanna McCoy’s young brothers (Tolbert, Pharmer and Bud) during an election day fight that took place in Kentucky.