On May 10, 1849, what is known as the worst theater riot in the
history of the world occurred in Manhattan. That evening, a
demonstration in support of American and against English actors
flared into a riot outside the Astor Place Opera House, leaving
22 dead, with 9 others dying of injuries within 5 days. A total
of 150 were wounded. William Macready, the noted British
tragedian against whom the demostration was aimed, escaped
unhurt. Between 10,000 and 24,000 rioters, many from Irish
gangs, had surrounded the theater. The magnificent interior of
the theater was reduced almost to a wreck. The demonstration was
said to have been instigated by Edwin Forrest, a first-rate
American tragedian whom Macready had insulted. May 10, 2012 -
10:17am