Historical Events tagged with "veterans"

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

Roosevelt Enacts the G.I. Bill for Veterans

June 22nd, 1944 80 years ago

Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Servicemen's Readjustment Act, known as the G.I. Bill, into law in Washington, D.C. The legislation aimed to support World War II veterans by providing educational benefits, housing assistance, and low-interest loans. Recognizing the sacrifices made by servicemen, the G.I. Bill intended to ease their transition into civilian life, offering opportunities for education and economic advancement. This comprehensive law marked a significant development in U.S. policy toward military veterans.

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Military & Warfare

Canadian National War Memorial Unveiled

May 21st, 1939 85 years ago

The Canadian National War Memorial was unveiled by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in Ottawa, Ontario. This significant event marked a tribute to the Canadian soldiers who served in World War I and subsequent conflicts. The memorial, designed by prominent Canadian architect Walter Seymour Allward, features a towering granite arch and was intended to honor the bravery of those who sacrificed for their country. The royal couple's presence underscored the importance of national remembrance.

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Politics & Government

Troops Disperse Bonus Army Protesters

July 29th, 1932 92 years ago

In Washington, D.C., U.S. Army troops violently dispersed the Bonus Army, a group of World War I veterans demanding early payment of their service bonuses. Using tanks, tear gas, and other forceful measures, the government aimed to clear the veterans who had gathered in the capital. The dispersal marked a significant confrontation between the military and protesting citizens, illustrating the tensions during the Great Depression and the government’s response to civil unrest.

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Politics & Government

Hoover Orders Eviction of Bonus Army Veterans

July 28th, 1932 92 years ago

The Bonus Army, consisting of World War I veterans marching for early payment of their service bonuses, was forcibly removed from their camp in Washington, D.C., by the U.S. Army. Under President Herbert Hoover's orders, troops led by General Douglas MacArthur confronted the veterans, leading to violent clashes and the destruction of their makeshift camps, which had been a protest site for several months. This dramatic action drew national attention to the plight of veterans during the Great Depression.

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Politics & Government

Bonus Army Protests at U.S. Capitol

June 17th, 1932 92 years ago

Around a thousand World War I veterans, known as the Bonus Army, gathered in Washington, D.C., to protest for economic relief and to demand immediate payment of their war bonuses as the Senate considered a bill for benefits. The veterans, facing hardship during the Great Depression, sought support from the government for their service.

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Politics & Government

Bonus Army Assembles for Cash Bonuses

May 29th, 1932 92 years ago

World War I veterans began gathering in Washington, D.C., to demand cash bonuses for their service. The Bonus Army, composed of thousands of veterans and their families, sought early payment of bonuses promised for 1945, driven by economic hardship during the Great Depression. The assembly symbolized their struggle for recognition and financial support from the government, which they believed had failed to honor its commitments.

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Military & Warfare

Dedication of the Tomb of the Unknowns

November 11th, 1921 103 years ago

U.S. President Warren G. Harding dedicated the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, honoring unidentified soldiers who died in service during World War I. This solemn ceremony included military honors and the participation of numerous dignitaries, reflecting the nation's grief and respect for the sacrifices of its soldiers. The tomb symbolizes the valor and the shared mourning of all Americans for their fallen heroes, serving as a poignant reminder of the costs of war.

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Politics & Government

Formation of FIDAC in Paris, France

November 28th, 1920 104 years ago

Founded in Paris, FIDAC unites war veterans' groups globally. Its objective is to advocate for veterans' rights and provide mutual support among the organizations of various nations. The inaugural meeting attracted representatives from numerous countries, emphasizing the need for solidarity and cooperation amongst veterans post-World War I.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Mounties Fire on Unemployed Veterans in Winnipeg

June 21st, 1919 105 years ago

During the Winnipeg General Strike, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police opened fire on a crowd of unemployed war veterans, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. This violent confrontation occurred as veterans were protesting for better treatment and support following their service in World War I. The incident was a flashpoint in the broader labor unrest that characterized the era, highlighting the struggles of returning soldiers in a difficult economic climate.

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