Historical Events tagged with "usa"

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

North Pacific Fur Seal Convention Signed

July 7th, 1911 113 years ago

The North Pacific Fur Seal Convention was signed by the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Russia to prohibit open-water seal hunting. This treaty marked a significant step toward international wildlife preservation. The agreement aimed to ensure the sustainability of the fur seal population in the North Pacific and was the first of its kind to address such conservation issues on a global scale.

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Science & Technology

IBM Founded as Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company

June 16th, 1911 113 years ago

The Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company was founded in Endicott, New York, consolidating four companies. This marked the beginning of IBM, paving the way for technological innovations in computing and business machinery. The integration of devices for card sorting, tabulation, and record keeping established a foundation for what would become a major player in the tech industry.

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Sports & Recreation

Ray Harroun Wins First Indianapolis 500

May 30th, 1911 113 years ago

Ray Harroun claimed victory at the inaugural Indianapolis 500 driving the Marmon Wasp, establishing a new tradition in auto racing. The race spanned 500 miles around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, featuring 40 entrants in a grueling test of speed and endurance. Harroun's innovative use of a rear-view mirror and streamlined design of his car contributed to his win, making him a racing pioneer. This milestone event drew a massive crowd and marked the beginning of what would become a legendary race in motorsports history.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire Claims Lives

March 25th, 1911 113 years ago

A fire broke out at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in New York City, resulting in the deaths of 146 garment workers, primarily young immigrant women. The blaze, fueled by fabric and paper, spread rapidly. Many workers could not escape, as exits were locked, forcing some to jump from the building. The tragedy highlighted unsafe working conditions and led to labor reforms.

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Military & Warfare

First Aircraft Landing on a Ship

January 18th, 1911 114 years ago

Eugene B. Ely successfully landed his Curtiss pusher aircraft on the deck of the USS Pennsylvania, anchored in San Francisco Bay. This remarkable event marked the first time in history that an aircraft made a landing on a ship, showcasing the potential of naval aviation. Ely's flight demonstrated the feasibility of integrating aircraft into naval operations and took place amidst growing interest in aviation in the early 20th century.

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Education & Academia

Opening of the San Diego Army and Navy Academy

November 10th, 1910 114 years ago

On November 10, 1910, Thomas A. Davis inaugurated the San Diego Army and Navy Academy in California, seeking to provide military education to young men. The academy was founded on the principles of character development, academic excellence, and physical training. This new institution aimed to prepare students for both military and civilian careers, reflecting the growing interest in military education during the early 20th century. The location was chosen for its favorable climate and coastal setting, which supported outdoor activities and training.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Airship America Launches for Atlantic Crossing

October 15th, 1910 114 years ago

Airship America, a dirigible designed for transatlantic flight, was launched from New Jersey, embarking on a historic journey aiming to demonstrate the potential of powered aircraft in crossing vast oceans. This innovative airship was designed by prominent aeronautical engineer Thomas S. Baldwin, who led the project to explore the feasibility of air travel over long distances. With its crew of skilled aviators, America intended to establish a new era in aviation by attempting the ambitious journey across the Atlantic Ocean.

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Crime & Law

Bombing of the Los Angeles Times Building

October 1st, 1910 114 years ago

A large bomb exploded at the Los Angeles Times building, resulting in the tragic loss of 21 lives. The bombing was linked to labor disputes and tensions between the press and labor unions, highlighting the fierce conflicts of the era. Following the explosion, numerous injured were taken to nearby hospitals as the city coped with the aftermath of the devastation. Investigations pointed to a significant anti-union sentiment fueling the volatile environment surrounding the Times.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

The Slocum Massacre in Texas

July 29th, 1910 114 years ago

A violent race riot erupted in Slocum, Texas, resulting in the deaths of more than 100 African Americans over two days. Sparked by tensions between the black community and local whites, reports indicate an armed white mob descended upon the town in retaliation to an earlier incident involving an altercation. The resulting chaos led to mass shootings, lynchings, and arson, as the mob targeted black residents, leaving many families devastated and a community in ruins.

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