Historical Events tagged with "construction"

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.

Technology & Innovation

Lego Patents Brick Design for Future Compatibility

January 28th, 1958 67 years ago

The Lego Company secured a patent for the design of its iconic interlocking plastic bricks. This innovative patent allowed the bricks to maintain compatibility with future generations of Lego products. The design featured small cylindrical studs and corresponding tubes, fundamentally changing how children and adults create with toys. This move was pivotal in establishing Lego as a key player in the toy industry and set the foundation for a successful legacy in construction toys.

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Politics & Government

Dedication of The Pentagon Building

January 15th, 1943 82 years ago

The Pentagon was dedicated as the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense. Located in Arlington County, Virginia, it was designed by architect George Bergstrom and constructed during World War II to accommodate the rapid expansion of the military. The ceremony was attended by military leaders, government officials, and dignitaries. The building features five sides and was completed ahead of schedule, symbolizing American resilience and commitment during wartime. It has since become a recognizable emblem of the U.S. military.

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Science & Technology

Hoover Dam Begins Electricity Generation

October 9th, 1936 88 years ago

Hoover Dam began generating electricity for Los Angeles, marking a significant milestone in the development of this monumental engineering feat. This event occurred in 1936, following years of construction and planning. The hydroelectric power produced by the dam was essential for providing energy to the growing city of Los Angeles and surrounding areas. The dam, originally named Boulder Dam, showcased advancements in engineering and design and highlighted the potential of harnessing natural resources for human use.

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Technology & Innovation

First Fully Glass-Covered Building Completed

January 15th, 1936 89 years ago

The Owens-Illinois Glass Company completed a pioneering building in Toledo, Ohio, which became the first structure to be entirely enveloped in glass. This architectural feat not only showcased the versatility of glass as a building material but also symbolized the company's innovative spirit in the burgeoning glass industry. The building was designed to promote the company's glass products and served as a modern marvel that attracted attention for its unique aesthetics and functionality.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Groundbreaking for the Golden Gate Bridge

January 5th, 1933 92 years ago

Construction of the Golden Gate Bridge commenced in San Francisco Bay, marking the beginning of an ambitious engineering project designed to connect San Francisco to Marin County. The bridge was envisioned to solve transportation issues and enable economic growth in the region. The design by Joseph Strauss, in collaboration with Leon Moisseiff and Charles Alton Ellis, aimed to create a suspension bridge that would span 1.7 miles over turbulent waters. This moment began a journey that would take several years and require significant resources, ultimately resulting in an iconic landmark.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Congress Approves Bay Bridge Construction

February 20th, 1931 94 years ago

The U.S. Congress approved funding for the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge, allowing the state of California to begin construction. This monumental project aimed to connect San Francisco with Oakland and was envisioned to alleviate traffic and enhance economic ties between the two cities. The approval was critical, as it marked a significant step toward realizing a vital transportation infrastructure.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Kaiser Starts Construction of Hoover Dam

July 7th, 1930 94 years ago

Industrialist Henry J. Kaiser initiated the construction of Boulder Dam, currently known as Hoover Dam, in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River. This innovative hydroelectric project was a response to the growing demand for water and power in the Southwestern United States. Under his leadership, significant engineering techniques and materials were utilized, marking a transformative period in American infrastructure development. The dam would later become a pivotal resource for irrigation, electricity, and flood control.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Link River Dam Construction Launches

July 29th, 1920 104 years ago

The construction of the Link River Dam commenced, marking a significant milestone in the Klamath Reclamation Project. Located in southern Oregon, the dam was designed to facilitate irrigation in the region, transforming arid land into fertile agricultural fields. The project aimed to enhance water management and provide support for local farmers, addressing longstanding water scarcity issues. It represented a crucial development in the growing movement of the early 20th century focused on land reclamation and irrigation projects across the United States.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Quebec Bridge Opens After Long Delays

December 3rd, 1919 105 years ago

After nearly two decades of planning and setbacks, the Quebec Bridge officially opened to traffic in December. The bridge, spanning the St. Lawrence River, was a monumental engineering achievement, though it had suffered two catastrophic collapses during its construction, resulting in the deaths of 89 workers. Its completion marked a significant advancement in transportation infrastructure and connectivity in Canada.

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