Historical Events tagged with "government"

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

Dáil Éireann Approves the Anglo-Irish Treaty

January 7th, 1922 103 years ago

Dáil Éireann ratified the Anglo-Irish Treaty with a narrow 64–57 vote, paving the way for the establishment of the Irish Free State. This decision was made during a heated session, reflecting deep divisions among Irish politicians. The treaty marked a significant step toward legislative independence, while also initiating political strife that led to civil conflict. The vote indicated not only a shift in government policy but also the aspirations of many Irish citizens for self-determination.

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Politics & Government

Harding Signs Willis–Campbell Act into Law

November 23rd, 1921 103 years ago

Warren G. Harding signed the Willis–Campbell Act, which prohibited doctors from prescribing beer or liquor for medicinal purposes. This legislation was a response to the growing concerns about the misuse of alcohol during the Prohibition era, as many had exploited medicinal prescriptions to circumvent the ban on alcohol. The act aimed to enforce stricter control over prescriptions and curb illegal alcohol consumption.

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Politics & Government

Hara Takashi Assassinated in Tokyo

November 4th, 1921 103 years ago

Hara Takashi, the Prime Minister of Japan, was assassinated in Tokyo by a right-wing extremist named Tōkichi Yui. The assassination occurred while he was attending an official function, highlighting tensions in Japanese politics at the time, particularly among nationalist factions who opposed Hara’s policies. His death marked a significant point in Japanese political history, indicating rising unrest and the challenges faced by government leaders.

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Politics & Government

Portuguese Prime Minister Assassination in Coup

October 19th, 1921 103 years ago

In an orchestrated coup, Portuguese Prime Minister António Granjo and several officials were murdered by military rebels in a chaotic power struggle. The violence erupted as factions within the military sought to overthrow the established government, which they viewed as corrupt and ineffective. The coup, termed the 'Bloody Night,' took place in Lisbon, causing national unrest and upheaval. Granjo was a significant political figure, noted for his attempts to stabilize Portugal amidst its turbulent political landscape.

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Politics & Government

Taft Becomes Chief Justice of the Supreme Court

July 11th, 1921 103 years ago

William Howard Taft took the oath of office as the 10th Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, making history as the only individual to serve as both president and chief justice. The swearing-in ceremony marked a significant moment not just in Taft's life, but also in the legal history of the United States. The event highlighted Taft's dedication to the judiciary, affirming his belief that the Supreme Court plays a pivotal role in upholding the Constitution and the rule of law.

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Politics & Government

Serbian King Alexander I Enacts Vidovdan Constitution

June 28th, 1921 103 years ago

The Vidovdan Constitution was proclaimed by King Alexander I of Serbia, marking a significant moment in the establishment of the constitutional framework of the newly formed Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes. This new constitution aimed to integrate various ethnic groups into a cohesive state, asserting democracy while simultaneously consolidating royal power. The constitution was named after the feast of Saint Vitus, known as Vidovdan, which holds cultural and historical significance in Serbian history. This event took place in Belgrade, the capital of the kingdom.

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Politics & Government

Emergency Quota Act establishes immigration quotas

May 19th, 1921 103 years ago

The Emergency Quota Act was passed by Congress in 1921, establishing national quotas for immigration to the United States. This act was motivated by a desire to restrict immigration from certain countries, reflecting growing nativist sentiments. It aimed to limit the number of immigrants based on their nationality, particularly targeting Southern and Eastern Europeans. By utilizing a quota system, the Act specifically capped the number of individuals allowed from each nationality to 3% of their respective populations in the U.S. according to the 1910 census. This legislation had lasting implications on U.S. immigration policy.

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Politics & Government

West Virginia Enacts Broad Sales Tax Legislation

May 3rd, 1921 103 years ago

West Virginia became the first state to enact broad sales tax legislation in 1921. The state aimed to generate revenue amid economic pressures following World War I. While the legislation was significant, it faced substantial delays in implementation due to challenges in enforcement and collection methods. As a result, the sales tax was not executed until several years later, reflecting the complexities of tax legislation during a period of economic transition.

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Politics & Government

Partition of Ireland Enacted by Law

May 3rd, 1921 103 years ago

The Government of Ireland Act 1920 established Northern Ireland and Southern Ireland as separate political entities. This legislation intended to provide self-government to Ireland while addressing the political differences between the predominantly Protestant north and the Catholic south. The act created a devolved government for Northern Ireland, while Southern Ireland was intended to have a similar structure that was largely unsuccessful. Tension continued to rise, leading to subsequent political and social upheavals in Ireland.

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