Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: Pig War ignited by shooting in San Juan Islands

6/15/2025

23 4

Summary

Story summary

On June 15, 1859, the Pig War erupted between the United States and the United Kingdom over a border dispute in the San Juan Islands. The conflict was sparked by the shooting of a pig, leading to heightened tensions, though it resulted in no casualties. This incident highlighted the ongoing territorial disagreements between the two nations.

1 of 1

Story summary

On June 15, 1859, the Pig War erupted between the United States and the United Kingdom over a border dispute in the San Juan Islands. The conflict was sparked by the shooting of a pig, leading to heightened tensions, though it resulted in no casualties. This incident highlighted the ongoing territorial disagreements between the two nations.