July 1859:
- Raid on Harpers Ferry: John Brown, along with a group of 21 men, launched an armed raid on the federal armory and arsenal at Harpers Ferry, Virginia (now West Virginia).
- Brown's goal was to seize weapons and supplies to incite a slave revolt and establish a provisional government in the mountains.
October 1859:
- Capture: After a two-day siege by federal troops led by Colonel Robert E. Lee, Brown's group was defeated. Brown was captured and taken prisoner.
- During the conflict, several people, including Brown's son, were killed or injured.
November 1859:
- Trial and Conviction: Brown was put on trial in Charles Town, Virginia, charged with treason, murder, and inciting a slave insurrection.
- The trial received national attention, with Brown becoming a polarizing figure. He defended his actions, claiming they were necessary to end slavery.
December 2, 1859:
- Execution: Following his conviction, John Brown was sentenced to death by hanging. The execution took place at the Jefferson County Courthouse in Charles Town.
- Brown faced his execution with defiance, declaring, "I am dying for a cause that will make millions live."
In the aftermath of Brown's execution, the incident became a significant event in the lead-up to the American Civil War. Brown's actions further heightened tensions between the North and the South, contributing to the growing conflict over the issue of slavery.