Historical Events tagged with "gasoline"

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.

Accidents & Tragedies

Tank Truck Explosion Devastates Okobie, Nigeria

July 12th, 2012 12 years ago

A tragic explosion of a tank truck carrying gasoline in Okobie, Nigeria, led to the deaths of over 100 people. The accident happened when residents rushed to collect leaking fuel, igniting a catastrophic explosion. This incident caused widespread devastation in the community and raised concerns about safety measures around hazardous materials.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

U.S. Civilian Gasoline Rationing Initiated

July 22nd, 1942 82 years ago

Compulsory gasoline rationing was implemented across the United States due to the increasing demands of World War II. As fuel supplies diminished, the government recognized the necessity to manage consumption among civilians while prioritizing military needs. The Office of Price Administration (OPA) announced guidelines for rationing, forcing citizens to obtain ration books enabling limited fuel purchases. This strategic decision aimed to ensure equitable distribution during wartime and to sustain military operations while minimizing civilian backlash in a time of scarcity.

Continue Reading
Science & Technology

Henry Ford tests his first gasoline-powered car

June 4th, 1896 128 years ago

Henry Ford successfully tests the Ford Quadricycle, a pivotal moment in automotive history. Built in a workshop in Detroit, Michigan, the Quadricycle featured a simple design with four bicycle wheels and was powered by a two-cylinder gasoline engine. Ford's innovative work showcased the potential of gasoline-powered vehicles, marking the beginning of a new era in transportation. This test run not only demonstrated its functionality but also laid the groundwork for Ford's future developments in the automotive industry.

Continue Reading
Transportation & Infrastructure

First American-Made Gasoline Automobile Test

September 20th, 1893 131 years ago

Charles Duryea and his brother successfully road-test the first American-made gasoline-powered automobile in Springfield, Massachusetts. This groundbreaking vehicle, known as the Duryea Motor Wagon, was a significant milestone in automotive innovation, showcasing the potential of gasoline engines for personal transportation. The successful test included both short-distance travel and real-world driving conditions, demonstrating the practicality of this new mode of transport.

Continue Reading