1870: A Year of Unification, Expansion, and Innovation

The year 1870 marked significant milestones in political unification, scientific advancements, cultural shifts, and technological progress. Here's a breakdown of the most important events of the year:

Political and International Affairs:

• Completion of Italian Unification: The Kingdom of Italy completed its unification with the capture of Rome on September 20. This event marked the end of the Risorgimento and established Rome as the capital.
• Franco-Prussian War: The Franco-Prussian War continued to escalate. Key battles included the Battle of Gravelotte in August and the Siege of Paris beginning in September. The war ultimately led to the downfall of the Second French Empire and the establishment of the Third Republic.
• Papal Infallibility: The First Vatican Council, convened by Pope Pius IX, promulgated the dogma of Papal Infallibility on July 18. This declaration stated that the Pope is infallible when speaking ex cathedra on matters of faith and morals.
• Completion of German Unification: The states of Southern Germany formally joined the North German Confederation, effectively completing the unification of Germany (though the formal establishment of the German Empire would occur in 1871).

Events Relevant to the United States:

• Fifteenth Amendment Ratified: The Fifteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified on February 3. This amendment prohibited the denial of the right to vote based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude, enfranchising African American men. This was a landmark achievement of the Reconstruction Era.
• Department of Justice Established: The United States Department of Justice was established on July 1, headed by the Attorney General.
• Yellowstone National Park Established: On March 1, Yellowstone National Park was established, becoming the first national park in the United States and arguably the world. This marked a crucial step in the conservation movement.

Scientific and Technological Advancements:

• Heinrich Schliemann Begins Excavating Troy: German businessman and archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann began his controversial excavations at the site believed to be the ancient city of Troy in modern-day Turkey.
• Development of Celluloid: John Carbutt first manufactured Celluloid photographic dry plates.

Cultural Events:

• Charles Dickens Dies: English novelist Charles Dickens, one of the most influential writers of the Victorian era, died on June 9.
• Establishment of the Metropolitan Museum of Art: The Metropolitan Museum of Art was founded in New York City, marking a significant development in the cultural landscape of the United States.

1870 was a year of transformative events that reshaped political boundaries, advanced scientific knowledge, and influenced cultural norms in both Europe and the United States. The aftershocks of these events continued to reverberate for decades to come.