Historical Events tagged with "politics"

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

Latvian–Soviet Peace Treaty Signed

August 11th, 1920 105 years ago

The Latvian–Soviet Peace Treaty was signed in a bid to formally end hostilities between Latvia and Soviet Russia following the Latvian War of Independence. The treaty marked a significant victory for Latvia, establishing its sovereignty and recognizing its independence from Russian control. The agreement was signed in the city of Riga, capital of Latvia, solidifying the newfound status of the nation after years of conflict.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Cork Hunger Strike Impacting Irish Republicanism

August 11th, 1920 105 years ago

The Cork hunger strike commenced as Terence MacSwiney, the Lord Mayor of Cork, and other Irish Republicans protested against British policies in Ireland. The strike was initiated following their imprisonment, demanding political status for republican prisoners. MacSwiney and his comrades faced severe conditions in jail, leading to widespread attention and solidarity among the Irish public. Their steadfastness during the hunger strike highlighted the struggle for Irish self-determination and drew international notice, ultimately resulting in MacSwiney’s death and that of two other hunger strikers.

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Politics & Government

Lithuania Gains Recognition from Soviet Russia

July 12th, 1920 105 years ago

The Soviet–Lithuanian Peace Treaty marked a significant turning point in Baltic relations. Signed in 1920, it recognized Lithuania's independence following World War I and the subsequent territorial changes in Eastern Europe. Negotiated in the city of Minsk, this treaty was part of the efforts by Soviet Russia to consolidate its borders and establish diplomatic relations with neighboring states. It ensured that Lithuania could form its government autonomously, free from Soviet control, which was crucial for the country's sovereignty and identity during the turbulent interwar years.

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Politics & Government

Arthur Meighen Takes Office as Prime Minister

July 10th, 1920 105 years ago

Arthur Meighen became the Prime Minister of Canada, succeeding William Lyon Mackenzie King as leader of the Conservative Party. His rise to power followed a notable political evolution and was marked by his commitment to conservative ideals and national unity. Meighen's immediate challenge was to address the post-World War I economic conditions and labor unrest in Canada, which were critical at the time. His leadership style and policies would define his term and influence Canadian politics moving forward.

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Politics & Government

The Birth of the 'Smoke-Filled Room' Phrase

June 11th, 1920 105 years ago

During the Republican National Convention in Chicago, party leaders convened at the Blackstone Hotel to negotiate and eventually select their presidential candidate for the upcoming election. This gathering marked a significant moment in political discourse, as it introduced the term 'smoke-filled room' to describe behind-the-scenes political decision-making. The phrase captured the secretive nature of political negotiations at the time, transforming how future political strategies would be perceived and discussed.

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Politics & Government

Recognition and Subsequent Invasion of Georgia

May 7th, 1920 105 years ago

Soviet Russia signed the Treaty of Moscow, recognizing the independence of the Democratic Republic of Georgia. However, this diplomatic gesture was short-lived, as just six months later, Soviet forces invaded and occupied the country, undermining its sovereignty and sparking a series of conflicts in the region.

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Politics & Government

Formation of the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic

April 28th, 1920 105 years ago

The Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic was proclaimed by the Bolshevik forces following military actions in the region. The establishment was part of the broader strategy of the Soviet Union to expand its influence after the Russian Revolution. Notably, it marked Azerbaijan's transformation from an independent democratic republic to a Soviet regime, supported by key Bolshevik figures like Vladimir Lenin. The decision was influenced by the geopolitical instability post World War I and ongoing civil conflicts in surrounding areas, as well as the desire for local governance under Soviet ideology.

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Politics & Government

Failed Assassination Attempt on Mannerheim

April 3rd, 1920 105 years ago

Aleksander Weckman attempted to assassinate General Carl Gustav Emil Mannerheim during a White Guard parade in Tampere. The plot was orchestrated by Eino Rahja, likely motivated by political rivalry and the chaotic post-civil war environment in Finland. The attempt was foiled, leading to repercussions for those involved and heightened political tensions in the region.

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Politics & Government

Senate's Second Rejection of Treaty of Versailles

March 19th, 1920 105 years ago

The United States Senate voted against the Treaty of Versailles for the second time on March 19, 1920. This treaty was intended to establish peace after World War I and included the formation of the League of Nations. A significant majority of Senate members opposed the treaty, reflecting deep divisions regarding America’s role in international affairs and commitments to collective security. Key figures in the debate included Senator Henry Cabot Lodge, who led the opposition, and President Woodrow Wilson, who strongly supported the treaty. The rejection illustrated the complexities of post-war diplomacy and American isolationism.

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