What Happened This Year 1898

Historical Events from This Year 1898

Military & Warfare

American Troops Enter Mayagüez, Puerto Rico

August 11th, 1898 126 years ago

American forces, part of the larger military operations in the Spanish–American War, landed in the coastal city of Mayagüez. This incursion was part of the U.S. strategy to secure Puerto Rico as tensions escalated throughout the region. The landing took place after successful naval engagements, demonstrating U.S. naval superiority and marking a pivotal moment in the conflict against Spain. The troops faced minimal resistance as they established control over the city, signaling a turning point in the war.

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Politics & Government

Annexation Ceremony at ʻIolani Palace

August 12th, 1898 126 years ago

An elaborate ceremony held at ʻIolani Palace marked the transfer of Hawaii's sovereignty from the Republic of Hawaii to the United States. The Hawaiian flag was ceremonially lowered, while the United States flag was raised, symbolizing the annexation of Hawaii. Attending dignitaries, including military officials and American representatives, played roles in the proceedings, highlighting the transition of governance. The ceremony was significant for its display of power and authority, reflecting the political shift occurring at the time.

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Military & Warfare

Surrender of Spanish Forces in Manila

August 13th, 1898 126 years ago

Spanish and American forces staged a mock battle in Manila. Following this display, the Spanish commander made the strategic decision to surrender the city to prevent it from falling into the hands of Filipino rebels. The event marked a critical moment in the Spanish-American War, underscoring the complex dynamics of colonial power, local insurgency, and international intervention.

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Space Exploration

Carl Gustav Witt Discovers Near-Earth Asteroid Eros

August 13th, 1898 126 years ago

Carl Gustav Witt discovered 433 Eros, the first near-Earth asteroid, on August 13, 1898, while working at the Berlin Observatory. This significant discovery added to the understanding of celestial bodies close to Earth and marked a major advancement in astronomy. Eros, named after the Greek god of love, was initially located at a distance of approximately 22 million kilometers from Earth. This finding opened new avenues for research into asteroids and their compositions, orbits, and potential for future exploration.

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Exploration & Discovery

Southern Cross Expedition Sets Sail

August 23rd, 1898 126 years ago

The Southern Cross Expedition departed from London, intending to explore Antarctica. Led by the experienced explorer and naturalist Carsten Borchgrevink, the venture set out with a crew and supplies to investigate the uncharted areas of the Southern continent. The expedition aimed to conduct scientific research and to establish a base for future explorations. This undertaking was significant as it represented the first British expedition of the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration.

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Politics & Government

Count Muravyov Proposes First Hague Peace Conference

August 24th, 1898 126 years ago

Count Mikhail Muravyov, the Foreign Minister of Russia, presented a significant rescript aimed at convening the First Hague Peace Conference. This initiative marked a momentous step towards international diplomacy and conflict resolution. Supported by various nations, the conference sought to address issues of disarmament and the peaceful resolution of disputes among nations, taking place in The Hague, Netherlands, as a pioneering platform for global dialogue.

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Economics & Industry

Brad's Drink Becomes Pepsi-Cola

August 28th, 1898 126 years ago

Caleb Bradham, a pharmacist from New Bern, North Carolina, rebranded his original beverage named 'Brad's Drink' to 'Pepsi-Cola'. This change was prompted by the drink's growing popularity and the need for a more marketable name that would resonate with consumers. The name 'Pepsi' was derived from the digestive enzyme pepsin, promoting the drink's digestive benefits, while 'Cola' referred to its flavor profile. This transformation in branding set the stage for what would become one of the world's largest soft drink companies.

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Economics & Industry

Goodyear Tire Company Established in Ohio

August 29th, 1898 126 years ago

The Goodyear Tire Company was founded in Akron, Ohio, by Charles Goodyear, marking a significant milestone in the tire manufacturing industry. This company specialized in producing tires for various types of vehicles, thus contributing to the booming automotive industry of the early 20th century. Akron became a hub for tire manufacturing, with the establishment of Goodyear setting the stage for future advancements in tire technology and expansion of the automotive market across the United States.

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Military & Warfare

British Victory at Omdurman Secures Sudan

September 2nd, 1898 126 years ago

The Battle of Omdurman saw British and Egyptian forces decisively defeat Sudanese tribesmen led by the Mahdist forces on the banks of the Nile. The battle took place near Omdurman, Sudan. Led by General Horatio Kitchener, the British aimed to establish colonial control over Sudan and suppress the Mahdist uprising. The engagement showcased the effectiveness of modern military technology, including the Maxim gun, which greatly increased British firepower, leading to a swift victory.

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