Prime Minister: Henry John Temple, 3rd Viscount Palmerston (Liberal)
Thu 14 May
American Civil War — Battle of Jackson, Mississippi: Union General
Ulysses S. Grant defeats Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston, opening the way
for the Siege of Vicksburg.
Sun 17 May
After a 2-month siege, the French army of Bazaine takes Puebla, Mexico.
The opening of Salon des Refusés in Paris draws attention to
painting by avant-garde artists, notably Manet's
Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe
Mon 18 May
American Civil War: The Siege of Vicksburg begins (ends July 4, when 30
189 Confederate men surrender)