Historical Events tagged with "20th century"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Silent Sentinels Arrested for Suffrage

August 28th, 1917 107 years ago

Ten suffragists from the Silent Sentinels were arrested while picketing outside the White House to demand the right to vote for women in the United States. Their peaceful protest featured banners and signs advocating for suffrage and garnered significant attention. This act of civil disobedience highlighted the ongoing struggle for women's rights and the urgent call for change in public policy, engaging citizens and politicians alike.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Deadliest German Air Raid on London

June 13th, 1917 107 years ago

On June 13, 1917, a German air raid using Gotha G.IV bombers targeted London, resulting in significant civilian casualties. The attack led to 162 deaths, including 46 children, and caused injuries to 432 people. This incident marked a notable escalation in the German bombing campaign against Britain during World War I, as embodied in their strategic use of aerial warfare. The attack struck various areas in London, instilling fear and altering perceptions about air defense and the safety of metropolitan life amid ongoing conflict.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Negus Mikael Defeated by Fitawrari Abte Giyorgis

October 27th, 1916 108 years ago

Negus Mikael, supporting his son Emperor Iyasu V, attempted to take the Ethiopian capital. Fitawrari Abte Giyorgis led government forces against him, resulting in a decisive defeat for Mikael's troops. This confrontation secured the throne for Empress Zewditu I, marking a significant turning point in Ethiopian politics.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Irish Rebels Declare Republic in Dublin

April 24th, 1916 108 years ago

Led by Patrick Pearse and James Connolly, Irish rebels launched an uprising in Dublin against British rule, proclaiming the establishment of the Irish Republic. The insurrection aimed to end British control over Ireland and was fueled by rising nationalist sentiments. Key locations included the General Post Office, which served as the rebels' headquarters. Though ultimately suppressed, the uprising set the stage for future independence movements.

Continue Reading
Science & Technology

Einstein Publishes General Theory of Relativity

March 20th, 1916 108 years ago

Albert Einstein submitted his groundbreaking paper titled "The Foundation of the General Theory of Relativity" to the journal Annalen der Physik. This submission was pivotal in the field of physics, outlining a new framework for understanding gravitation, space, and time. Einstein's work presented his revolutionary ideas on the curvature of spacetime caused by mass, challenging Newtonian physics. The paper reflected years of theoretical work and mathematical formulation, offering insights that would later be confirmed through experiments and observations. This submission marked a significant milestone in Einstein's career as well as in the scientific community.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Yunnan's Independence Movement Against China Begins

December 25th, 1915 109 years ago

Cai E and Tang Jiyao led military forces in Yunnan to declare independence from the Empire of China, igniting a campaign aimed at restoring the Republic. This movement was part of a broader reaction to the central government's authority, driven by regional leaders seeking autonomy amidst political instability in China following the fall of the Qing Dynasty and the establishment of the Republic.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Yuan Shikai's Imperial Ambitions Unveiled

December 12th, 1915 109 years ago

Yuan Shikai announced the establishment of the Empire of China, declaring himself emperor in a bid to consolidate power. This proclamation, made in Beijing, sought to restore a monarchy following the fall of the Qing Dynasty. Yuan’s decision sparked controversy and resistance, marking a significant turning point in the political landscape of early 20th-century China. His ambition to reign led to both national and international scrutiny, impacting China's sovereignty and governance.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Denmark Grants Women the Right to Vote

June 5th, 1915 109 years ago

The Danish Parliament amended the constitution to grant women the right to vote and stand for election in parliamentary and municipal elections. This significant reform was the culmination of decades of campaigning by women's rights activists in Denmark, influenced by similar movements across Europe. It marked a pivotal change in Danish society, reinforcing the principles of democracy and gender equality. The law allowed women to fully participate in the political process, impacting legislation and governance.

Continue Reading
Technology & Innovation

Georges Claude Patents Neon Discharge Tube

January 19th, 1915 110 years ago

Georges Claude patented the neon discharge tube, revolutionizing advertising with bright neon lights. This invention provided a new tool for businesses and artists alike to captivate audiences in urban landscapes. The vivid neon lights made their debut in Paris, catching the eyes of consumers and transforming the nighttime visual environment. Claude's innovation marked the beginning of neon signage, allowing for vibrant colors and dynamic displays that became a staple in modern advertising.

Continue Reading