What Happened This Year 1890

Historical Events from This Year 1890

Politics & Government

Italian Government Establishes Eritrea as Colony

January 1st, 1890 135 years ago

In 1890, the Italian government officially declared Eritrea a colony. This decision marked a significant expansion of Italian colonial ambitions in Africa, following their earlier acquisition of Red Sea ports. Eritrea was chosen for its strategic location and potential for trade, which Italy aimed to exploit for economic gains. The consolidation into a colony followed earlier military campaigns and negotiations with local leaders, setting the stage for colonial administration.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Founding of the United Mine Workers of America

January 22nd, 1890 135 years ago

The United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) was founded in Columbus, Ohio, as a response to the unsafe working conditions and insufficient wages faced by coal miners. The organization sought to unite miners across the country to advocate for better rights and labor conditions. Through collective bargaining, the UMWA aimed to improve the welfare of the mining community, addressing issues like long hours and dangerous work environments. The formation of this union marked a significant step towards organized labor within the mining industry.

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Exploration & Discovery

Nellie Bly completes her round-the-world journey

January 25th, 1890 135 years ago

Nellie Bly, an American journalist, completed her extraordinary journey around the world in a record-breaking 72 days. She embarked on this ambitious trip to beat the fictional character Phileas Fogg's time of 80 days, set in Jules Verne's novel 'Around the World in Eighty Days.' Bly's journey began and ended in New York City, taking her through multiple countries including England, France, India, and Japan. Her remarkable feat captured the public's imagination and showcased the potential for women's achievements in journalism.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Opening of the Forth Bridge in Scotland

March 4th, 1890 135 years ago

The Forth Bridge, a marvel of engineering, was inaugurated by the Duke of Rothesay, who later became King Edward VII. Spanning 8,094 feet, this cantilever bridge connects Edinburgh to Fife over the Firth of Forth. Its design and construction embodied the industrial prowess of the time, showcasing ironwork and design innovations. The grand opening was celebrated with great pomp, symbolizing not just a transportation link but also the advancements in Victorian engineering.

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Politics & Government

Bismarck Dismissed by Emperor Wilhelm II

March 20th, 1890 134 years ago

Otto von Bismarck, the Chancellor of the German Empire, was dismissed by Emperor Wilhelm II due to increasing tensions between their governing philosophies. The dismissal marked a significant turning point in German politics and initiated a departure from Bismarck's practiced policies of diplomacy and alliance. Wilhelm II aimed to assert his own vision of imperial governance, leading to profound changes in Germany's international relations and internal policies.

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Politics & Government

Formation of the Pan-American Union

April 14th, 1890 134 years ago

The First International Conference of American States convened in Washington, D.C., leading to the establishment of the Pan-American Union. This unprecedented gathering aimed to foster collaboration among nations in the Americas and address mutual concerns. A notable outcome was the agreement to hold regular meetings to discuss trade and political cooperation, and the creation of a permanent secretariat to facilitate communication between member countries. This initiative marked a significant step toward regional unity, reflecting the growing interest in diplomacy and international relations among American states.

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Science & Technology

Tabulating Machine Revolutionizes Census Counting

June 1st, 1890 134 years ago

The United States Census Bureau adopted Herman Hollerith's tabulating machine for tallying census returns, significantly speeding up the process. This innovative device utilized punched cards to record data, showcasing the potential of early computing technology. The implementation took place at a time when population data was becoming essential for governance, helping to efficiently provide accurate demographic information. As a result, this change marked a turning point in data processing, facilitating better resource allocation and policy development.

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Technology & Innovation

Linking Canada and Bermuda via Telegraph Cable

July 1st, 1890 134 years ago

The telegraph cable connecting Canada and Bermuda was completed, enhancing communication between the two regions. This cable significantly reduced communication time, allowing for faster exchanges of information between Canada and Bermuda, ultimately helping in trade and governance. The project aimed to strengthen ties and improve telecommunication infrastructure in the region.

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Politics & Government

Congress Enacts Landmark Antitrust Legislation

July 2nd, 1890 134 years ago

The Sherman Antitrust Act, a significant piece of legislation, was passed by the U.S. Congress to combat monopolistic practices in business. Named after Senator John Sherman, this act aimed to promote fair competition and prevent anti-competitive agreements and practices among corporations. It was enacted during a period when several industries were becoming dominated by a few large firms. The act laid the groundwork for future antitrust laws in the United States.

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