Historical Events tagged with "early 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.

Politics & Government

Crete Annexed by Greece After Balkan War

December 1st, 1913 111 years ago

Following the conclusion of the First Balkan War, Crete attained self-rule from Ottoman Turkey. Subsequently, political dynamics shifted, leading to the island's annexation by Greece. This move was fueled by nationalist sentiments and supported by the Greek populace who desired union with Greece.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Buenos Aires Metro Begins Operations

December 1st, 1913 111 years ago

The Buenos Aires Metro, the first underground railway system in the Southern Hemisphere and Latin America, commenced operations in 1913. The inaugural line ran from Plaza de Mayo to Plaza Congreso, covering a distance of approximately 9 kilometers. This groundbreaking achievement was a significant development in urban transportation, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion in Buenos Aires. The system utilized electric trains and was designed to accommodate a large number of passengers, reflecting the city's growth and modernization efforts during this period.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Dedication of the Lincoln Highway

October 31st, 1913 111 years ago

The Lincoln Highway was formally dedicated, becoming the first coast-to-coast automobile highway in the United States. This significant event aimed to enhance the mobility and connectivity of the country, showcasing the potential for travel across the nation by car. The dedication ceremony featured various festivities, including speeches from prominent leaders, and symbolized the emerging automobile culture in the early 20th century. It spurred further highway development and created lasting enthusiasm for road travel.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Senghenydd Colliery Disaster Claims 439 Lives

October 14th, 1913 111 years ago

The Senghenydd colliery disaster was the worst coal mining accident in the United Kingdom’s history, occurring in a valley near Senghenydd, Wales. 439 miners tragically lost their lives due to an explosion in the colliery, which ignited a subsequent fire. On that fateful day, rescue operations were hindered by the hazardous conditions. The men who died were primarily part of the local community, supporting their families through coal mining, a critical industry at the time. The scale of the disaster led to nationwide attention regarding miner safety regulations and labor rights.

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Military & Warfare

Launch of HMS Queen Mary Battlecruiser

August 16th, 1913 111 years ago

HMS Queen Mary was launched in 1913 at the Clydebank shipyard in Scotland. This battlecruiser was a part of the Royal Navy's modernization efforts, symbolizing advancements in naval engineering of the time. The launch was a grand event that attracted considerable attention, showcasing Britain's naval prowess as tensions grew in Europe. Among the notable attendees were members of the Royal Family and naval officials, signaling the importance of the ship to British interests.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Emily Davison Trampled at The Derby

June 4th, 1913 111 years ago

Emily Davison, a prominent British suffragette, made a bold statement during the Derby by running onto the racetrack in front of King George V's horse, Anmer. This unexpected act was in protest of the lack of voting rights for women. Davidson was tragically trampled by the horse and sustained severe injuries, resulting in her never regaining consciousness. She succumbed to her injuries four days after the incident, leaving a profound impact on the suffragette movement in the United Kingdom.

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Military & Warfare

Bulgarian Forces Captured Adrianople

March 26th, 1913 112 years ago

Bulgarian troops successfully captured the city of Adrianople during the First Balkan War. This decisive victory occurred after intense and strategic military operations aimed at weakening Ottoman control in the region. The capture was significant for Bulgaria as it marked a pivotal point in their efforts to establish dominance in the Balkans and led to further territorial gains.

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Politics & Government

Sung Chiao-jen Assassination Attempt and Death

March 20th, 1913 112 years ago

Sung Chiao-jen, a key figure in the early Chinese Nationalist Party, was wounded in an assassination attempt in Shanghai. The attack, which occurred during a period of political instability, resulted in mortal injuries. He succumbed to his wounds two days later, sparking significant outrage among supporters and potentially changing the course of the party's activities. This incident highlighted the violence faced by political leaders in early 20th century China.

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Arts & Culture

The Armory Show Opens in New York City

February 17th, 1913 112 years ago

The Armory Show took place in New York City, showcasing revolutionary modern art from prominent European and American artists. This influential exhibition introduced the American public to avant-garde movements, including Impressionism, Fauvism, and Cubism. Notable works displayed included those by Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, and Marcel Duchamp. The event drew criticism and praise, igniting passionate discussions about modern art, making it a pivotal moment in American art history. More than just an exhibition, it represented a cultural shift in artistic appreciation and pushed boundaries in contemporary art at the time.

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