Historical Events tagged with "washington"

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

Congress Passes the Volstead Act

October 28th, 1919 105 years ago

The U.S. Congress successfully passed the Volstead Act, overruling President Woodrow Wilson's veto. This legislation defined intoxicating liquors and established the framework for Prohibition, set to commence in January of the following year. The decision was propelled by a growing social movement favoring temperance, aiming to reduce alcohol consumption across the nation amid concerns over morality and public health.

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Politics & Government

Woodrow Wilson suffers catastrophic stroke

October 2nd, 1919 105 years ago

U.S. President Woodrow Wilson experienced a catastrophic stroke at the White House, which left him physically and mentally incapacitated. This incident occurred a mere seven days after he had delivered a speech in Pueblo, Colorado, where he had shown signs of physical distress. The stroke led to a significant decline in his health and effectively ended his active participation in the presidency, raising concerns about the future of his administration amidst ongoing post-war challenges.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Major Labor Strike in Seattle Begins

February 6th, 1919 106 years ago

More than 65,000 workers in Seattle, Washington, walked off their jobs, initiating a five-day general strike that disrupted the city’s economy and services. The event was fueled by rising inflation and worker demands for better pay and conditions, marking a significant moment in American labor history. The strike saw active participation from various sectors, including shipyard workers, teamsters, and metal tradesmen, all unified in their demand for collective bargaining rights.

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Politics & Government

Wilson's Fourteen Points for Peace

January 8th, 1918 107 years ago

U.S. President Woodrow Wilson presented his Fourteen Points for a sustainable peace. Announced in a speech to Congress, the points outlined principles for resolving World War I and preventing future conflicts. Wilson aimed to articulate American ideals and promote a vision for a world founded on democracy and self-determination. His proposals called for open diplomacy, freedom of the seas, disarmament, and the establishment of the League of Nations.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Silent Sentinels Arrested for Suffrage

August 28th, 1917 107 years ago

Ten suffragists from the Silent Sentinels were arrested while picketing outside the White House to demand the right to vote for women in the United States. Their peaceful protest featured banners and signs advocating for suffrage and garnered significant attention. This act of civil disobedience highlighted the ongoing struggle for women's rights and the urgent call for change in public policy, engaging citizens and politicians alike.

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Politics & Government

Wilson Requests War Declaration from Congress

April 2nd, 1917 107 years ago

President Woodrow Wilson addressed Congress, requesting a declaration of war against Germany due to continued unrestricted submarine warfare and other provocations. This marked a pivotal moment in U.S. history, as the nation shifted from a stance of neutrality to active participation in World War I. Wilson's speech emphasized the need to uphold international law and promote global democracy, setting the tone for American involvement in the conflict.

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Politics & Government

Wilson Advocates Peace Without Victory

January 22nd, 1917 108 years ago

President Woodrow Wilson addressed the U.S. Senate, advocating for a peace initiative in Europe. He proposed the concept of 'peace without victory,' aiming to resolve World War I conflicts through diplomatic negotiations rather than continued warfare. Wilson's speech emphasized the need for a just peace that would not impose harsh penalties on the defeated nations, reflecting his desire for a moral resolution to the ongoing conflict.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Shoot-out Between Police and IWW in Everett

November 5th, 1916 108 years ago

A violent confrontation erupted in Everett, Washington, involving members of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) and local law enforcement. Political tensions surrounding labor rights and union organization escalated into a shoot-out, leading to significant casualties and arrests. The conflict stemmed from deep-rooted opposition to the IWW's radical labor movements, as local authorities sought to maintain order while union members fought for workers' rights in the timber industry. The clash highlighted the growing divide between labor activism and local governance in the early 20th century.

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Science & Technology

Incorporation of Pacific Aero Products

July 15th, 1916 108 years ago

William Boeing and George Conrad Westervelt established Pacific Aero Products in Seattle, Washington, marking the foundation of what would become one of the largest aerospace companies in the world. This company emerged from Boeing's passion for aviation, instigated by his interest in building and piloting planes. The incorporation set the stage for innovative advancements in aeronautics and manufacturing.

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