Khodynka Field Stampede 1896

In 1896, a public banquet in Moscow celebrating the coronation of Tsar Nicholas II turned deadly. The free event attracted a massive crowd, but a rumor spread that gold coins were being handed out along with beer and food. Fearing there wouldn't be enough for everyone, thousands surged forward in a chaotic stampede.

The crush killed 1,389 people and injured many more. Shockingly, the festivities continued as planned, and workers quickly cleaned up the scene so the celebration could go on. The Khodynka Tragedy left a dark stain on Nicholas II's reign, foreshadowing the unrest that would eventually topple the Russian monarchy.

Previous Fact Next Fact