Launch of the Wikipedia Encyclopedia

January 15th, 2001

January 15th, 2001

Launch of the Wikipedia Encyclopedia
How Long Ago?

24 years, 2 months ago

Location

Worldwide

Category

Science & Technology

People
  • Jimmy Wales
  • Larry Sanger
Links & References
Tags

Launch of the Wikipedia Encyclopedia

Wikipedia, a free online encyclopedia, was launched in January 2001. It offered a platform for collaborative editing and crowd-sourced knowledge, allowing anyone with internet access to contribute and edit content. This innovative approach revolutionized how information was shared and accessed worldwide, fundamentally changing the landscape of the internet and online knowledge bases.

Founded by Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger

Embraces collaborative editing by users

Grew rapidly to millions of articles globally

Pioneered crowd-sourced knowledge online

What Happened?

The launch of Wikipedia transformed the information landscape on the internet. Founded by Jimmy Wales and Larry Sanger, Wikipedia was intended as a free, easily accessible encyclopedia that anyone could edit. Its establishment marked a significant shift from traditional encyclopedias, which were often expensive and limited to the contributions of a specific group of experts. Instead, Wikipedia embraced the principles of collaborative editing and open-source content, promoting user-generated knowledge sharing. This radical departure from conventional models allowed for a rapidly growing database of articles on countless topics, written and edited by individuals from around the world. With its non-profit status and commitment to neutrality, Wikipedia attracted millions of contributors across various languages. Through innovative features such as hyperlinks, referencing, and discussion pages, Wikipedia was able to create a dynamic environment where information could be continuously updated and refined. The platform quickly gained popularity due to its vast range of content, ease of access, and collaborative nature. Within a short period, Wikipedia became one of the most visited websites globally, demonstrating the potential of collective knowledge aggregation. The launch of Wikipedia not only changed how individuals sought information but also highlighted the growth of the internet as a democratizing force in knowledge dissemination and education.

Why Does it Matter?

Wikipedia's advent is significant as it pioneered the concept of crowd-sourced knowledge on a global scale. By allowing anyone with internet access to edit entries, it challenged established norms around information authority and expertise. The platform's commitment to openness and neutrality paved the way for similar initiatives, fostering a culture of sharing and collaboration that emerged as a hallmark of the digital age.

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Natural Disasters

Tonga Volcano Erupts and Triggers Tsunami

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Natural Disasters

6.2-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Sulawesi Island

January 15th, 2021 4 years ago

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Health & Medicine

First confirmed COVID-19 case in Japan

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The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Japan, marking a significant moment in the global response to the outbreak. The individual involved had traveled from Wuhan, China, where the virus was first identified. Health authorities initiated contact tracing and heightened monitoring procedures in response to the new case, aiming to mitigate further spread within Japan.

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Crime & Law

Somali Militants Attack DusitD2 Hotel in Nairobi

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On January 15, 2019, a coordinated attack by Somali militants targeted the DusitD2 hotel complex in Nairobi, Kenya. Gunmen from the group Al-Shabaab stormed the location during the busy lunch hour, leading to a violent siege that lasted several hours. At least 21 individuals were killed, including both locals and foreigners, with an additional 19 people suffering injuries. The attack included loud explosions and gunfire, trapping many inside while others fled into the streets. Emergency responders faced challenges in the rescue operation as they sought to secure the area and assist victims.

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Politics & Government

Historic Defeat for Theresa May's Government

January 15th, 2019 6 years ago

Theresa May's proposals for the UK's withdrawal from the European Union faced overwhelming opposition in the House of Commons, resulting in a record defeat for her government. With a majority of 432 MPs voting against the withdrawal agreement, the defeat marked a significant moment in UK politics, reflecting deep divisions over Brexit. The overwhelming rejection raised questions about May's leadership and the future direction of Brexit negotiations.

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