Historical Events tagged with "versailles"

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.

Science & Technology

Redefinition of the International System of Units

May 20th, 2019 5 years ago

The International System of Units (SI) was redefined, leading to the obsolescence of the international prototype of the kilogram. This historic change was formally adopted during the 26th General Conference on Weights and Measures held in Versailles, France. The redefinition utilized a fixed numerical value of the Planck constant to ensure greater precision in measurement. The decision was largely influenced by advances in science and technology, aiming to enhance the accuracy and consistency of measurements across various scientific fields globally.

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Crime & Law

Final Execution by Guillotine in France

June 17th, 1939 85 years ago

Eugen Weidmann was publicly executed by guillotine in Versailles, outside Saint-Pierre prison. This event marked the end of public executions in France and was attended by a sizable crowd. Weidmann, convicted of multiple murders, had made headlines for his gruesome crimes, leading to significant public interest. The execution was performed by the authorities in a spectacle intended to serve as a deterrent to crime.

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Politics & Government

Stresa Front Conference Against German Violations

April 11th, 1935 89 years ago

The Stresa Front conference convened in 1935, featuring British Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald, Italian Prime Minister Benito Mussolini, and French Foreign Minister Pierre Laval. The meeting, held in Stresa, Italy, aimed to collectively condemn Germany's actions that breached the Treaty of Versailles, particularly its rearmament and the remilitarization of the Rhineland. This gathering marked a significant attempt by the three nations to enforce the post-World War I peace settlement and demonstrate unity against aggression in Europe.

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Military & Warfare

Hitler Re-Forms Luftwaffe, Defying Treaty of Versailles

February 26th, 1935 90 years ago

In a significant move, Adolf Hitler ordered the re-formation of the Luftwaffe, Germany's air force, in direct violation of the Treaty of Versailles. This decision was announced publicly, showcasing the Nazi regime's defiance against the post-World War I peace settlement. The Luftwaffe's establishment marked a crucial step in Hitler's broader military ambitions, emphasizing a shift towards aggressive rearmament in defiance of international restrictions placed on Germany following its defeat in World War I. The act aimed to restore national pride and military strength.

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Politics & Government

Senate's Second Rejection of Treaty of Versailles

March 19th, 1920 104 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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Politics & Government

Treaty of Versailles Takes Effect

January 10th, 1920 105 years ago

The Treaty of Versailles officially took effect, marking the end of World War I for all combatant nations except the United States. This treaty, signed in 1919, imposed punitive reparations and territorial losses on Germany, alongside new borders and the formation of the League of Nations intended to prevent future conflicts. The formal announcement of its activation came through extensive diplomatic efforts and discussions that took place in Paris, where Allied leaders sought to build a new global order after the devastation of the war.

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Politics & Government

Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye Signed

September 10th, 1919 105 years ago

The Republic of German-Austria signed the Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, which resulted in significant territorial cessions to Italy, Yugoslavia, and Czechoslovakia. Signed on September 10, 1919, in France, this agreement aimed to formalize the end of hostilities and outline the new borders following the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire after World War I. It marked a pivotal moment in reshaping Central Europe.

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Politics & Government

Signing of the Treaty of Versailles

June 28th, 1919 105 years ago

The Treaty of Versailles was signed at the Palace of Versailles, ending the state of war between Germany and the Allies following World War I. The treaty included several punitive measures against Germany, including territorial losses, military restrictions, and reparations. Notable leaders involved in the negotiation included French Prime Minister Georges Clemenceau, British Prime Minister David Lloyd George, and American President Woodrow Wilson. The signing took place in the Hall of Mirrors, marking a significant moment in international relations.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Student Protests against Treaty of Versailles

May 4th, 1919 105 years ago

A significant wave of student demonstrations took place in Tiananmen Square, Beijing, spurred by outrage over the Treaty of Versailles. The treaty's terms, which were perceived to unfairly transfer Chinese territories to Japan, ignited a fervent nationalistic response among Chinese youth. Initiated by students, the protests garnered widespread support and called for political reform and the rejection of the treaty. This movement not only highlighted the frustrations with foreign powers but also marked the awakening of a new political consciousness among the Chinese populace.

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