What happened in 1879
8 entries recorded for 1879, listed by date. That was 147 years ago.
1879 at a glance
- Years ago
- 147 (as of 2026)
- Century
- 19th century
- Decade
- 1870s
- Generation born
- Before the named generations
- Entries here
- 8
- Breakdown
- 8 historical events
January
- January 12
Anglo-Zulu War
Anglo-Zulu War: Natal Native Contingent and British troops defeated Zulu forces in the Action at Sihayo's Kraal.
- January 22
Anglo-Zulu War
Anglo-Zulu War: The Zulu forces of King Cetshwayo (pictured) achieved a decisive victory at the Battle of Isandlwana.
February
- February 8
Umpire (cricket)
Angered by a controversial umpiring decision, cricket spectators rioted and attacked the England team during a match in Sydney, Australia.
April
- April 1
Inland Customs Line
The Inland Customs Line, established by the British for the collection of the salt tax in India, was abandoned.
June
- June 5
Zungeni Mountain skirmish
The Zungeni Mountain skirmish took place between British and Zulu forces during the second invasion of the Zulu Kingdom.
September
- September 18
Blackpool Illuminations
The Blackpool Illuminations (example pictured) in the English seaside town of Blackpool were switched on for the first time.
October
- October 2
Qing dynasty
Qing China signed the Treaty of Livadia with the Russian Empire, but the terms were so unfavorable that the Chinese government refused to ratify the treaty.
December
- December 21
Nora Helmer
the fictional character of Nora Helmer is first portrayed by Betty Hennings (pictured) at a showing of A Doll's House at the Royal Danish Theatre.
Questions about 1879
What happened in 1879?
This site records 8 entries for 1879, including Anglo-Zulu War on January 12. They are listed below by date.
How long ago was 1879?
147 years ago, counting from 2026. Anyone born in 1879 turns 147 this year.
Which century is 1879 in?
1879 falls in the 19th century, in the 1870s.
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