History in 18th May

Mount St. Helens erupts

Mount St. Helens, a previously dormant volcano in southern Washington, erupts at 8:32am, causing the most destructive volcanic event in American history. The volcano had been active two months prior to the eruption, as the United States Geological Survey (USGS) had recorded earthquakes and volcanic disruptions. The USGS warnings closed off access to the volcano. Nevertheless, the eruption caused 57 deaths and over $1 billion in property damage.
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Siege of Vicksburg begins

The Siege of Vicksburg begins as the Union Army of the Tennessee, commanded by General Ulysses S. Grant, surrounds Vicksburg, the last major Confederate outpost on the Mississippi River. After surrounding the fortress city Grant would try several direct assaults beginning on May 19; having been pushed back, the Union Army ensured that no supplies or reinforcements could enter Vicksburg.
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Lincoln secures nomination

Abraham Lincoln secures the Republican nomination, edging out New York Senator William H. Seward on the third ballot. Lincoln represented a more moderate voice of the Republican Party and carried critical Western votes on his way to the nomination.
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