Historical Events tagged with "commerce"

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.

Transportation & Infrastructure

Mont Blanc Tunnel Opens Between Two Nations

July 16th, 1965 59 years ago

The Mont Blanc Tunnel, connecting France and Italy, officially opened, enhancing travel and trade between the two countries. Spanning 11.6 kilometers, this significant engineering project took nearly four years to complete. It features two roadway tubes, accommodating traffic in both directions, significantly reducing travel time across the alpine region. The tunnel is strategically located near Chamonix in France and Courmayeur in Italy, making it a vital transportation link for both tourism and commerce.

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Economics & Industry

Formation of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce

June 1st, 1961 63 years ago

The Canadian Bank of Commerce and Imperial Bank of Canada combined to establish the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, creating the largest bank in Canada. This merger was primarily driven by the need for increased competition and market efficiency amidst a rapidly changing financial landscape. The union was seen as essential for modernization and enhancing service offerings across the nation, addressing the needs of a growing economy.

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Economics & Industry

Adoption of International Measurement Standards

July 1st, 1959 65 years ago

International standards for the yard and pound were established following an agreement between the United States, the United Kingdom, and other Commonwealth countries. This agreement standardized measurements that involved the international yard, avoirdupois pound, and derived units such as inch, mile, and ounce. The standardization aimed to promote consistency in trade and commerce among the participating nations.

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Education & Academia

Philippine School of Commerce Becomes College

June 21st, 1952 72 years ago

The Philippine School of Commerce was established as an educational institution to promote commerce-related courses in the country. The enactment of Republic Act No. 778 elevated it to the Philippine College of Commerce. This change reflected the government's commitment to enhancing vocational education in the post-war period, aiming to equip the workforce with essential skills in an evolving economic landscape. The college eventually evolved into the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, which continues to serve many students in the Philippines.

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Politics & Government

Suez Canal Closed to Israeli Ships

May 19th, 1950 74 years ago

In a significant move, Egypt announced the closure of the Suez Canal to all Israeli ships and commerce. This action was part of a broader strategy to assert regional political influence and respond to growing tensions between Israel and Arab nations. The closure affected maritime trade routes and highlighted the ongoing conflict dynamics in the Middle East. Egypt's decision created substantial economic implications for Israel and provoked reactions from various international stakeholders.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Aloha Airlines Launches from Honolulu Airport

July 26th, 1946 78 years ago

Aloha Airlines commenced operations from Honolulu International Airport, marking a significant moment in Hawaiian transportation. Founded by values of community and connection, the airline provided essential inter-island air travel that strengthened tourism and commerce in Hawaii. The initiation of flights enabled easier access to the various Hawaiian islands, fostering growth in both tourism and local economies. Aloha Airlines quickly became a beloved carrier, known for its friendly service and commitment to the islands.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

First Parking Meter Installed in Oklahoma City

July 16th, 1935 89 years ago

The world's first parking meter was installed in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, aiming to regulate on-street parking and create turnover for local businesses. The meter, designed by Carl C. Magee, charged users a fee for parking, marking a significant innovation in urban management. The implementation was intended to reduce congestion and improve accessibility for shoppers in the downtown area, thus enhancing commerce.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Establishment of the US Numbered Highway System

November 11th, 1926 98 years ago

The United States Numbered Highway System was established to create a cohesive network of roads across the country. This system standardized road signage, improving navigation and travel efficiency for drivers. The initiative aimed to streamline highway maintenance and improve safety. The United States Bureau of Public Roads played a crucial role in this implementation, ensuring uniformity and accessibility across diverse regions.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Varney Airlines' First Commercial Flight

April 6th, 1926 98 years ago

Varney Airlines completed its inaugural commercial flight, marking a significant milestone in the airline industry. The flight, which took off from Pasco, Washington, to Elko, Nevada, was a crucial step in establishing scheduled airmail services. Varney Airlines aimed to improve national communication and was among the first to offer regular passenger and cargo flights using a Lockheed Vega aircraft. This engagement passengers in the aviation experience and began to lay the groundwork for what would later be United Airlines.

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