What Happened This Year 1900
Historical Events from This Year 1900
Battle of Palonegro: Conservatives Turn the Tide
In the Battle of Palonegro, the Colombian Conservative Party achieved a decisive victory against the Colombian Liberal Party, marking a turning point in the Thousand Days' War. Commanded by General Juan Pablo Rojas Pinilla, Conservative forces successfully defended key positions and inflicted significant casualties on their Liberal opponents. This confrontation highlighted the strategic importance of the region and solidified the Conservative momentum in the ongoing conflict.
Continue ReadingFort-Lamy Established by Émile Gentil
Émile Gentil established Fort-Lamy in Chad in 1900 to reinforce French presence in Central Africa. This strategic military post was named after General Paul Lamy. Located near the confluence of the Chari and Logone rivers, Fort-Lamy aimed to facilitate French control over trade and regional politics in the area, countering rival interests.
Continue ReadingBritish Forces Capture Pretoria in Boer War
British troops occupied Pretoria, the capital of the South African Republic, during the Second Boer War. This significant military maneuver came after intense fighting against Boer forces, marking a pivotal moment in the conflict. The capture indicated the British strategy to consolidate control over crucial Boer territories and asserted their dominance in the region. The occupation was met with mixed reactions, altering the local dynamics and inciting further resistance from Boer fighters.
Continue ReadingBirsa Munda Dies in British Custody
Birsa Munda, an influential Indian tribal leader, died from cholera while imprisoned by the British in 1900. He was a key figure in the Ulgulan movement, which sought to establish the rights of tribal communities in India. His leadership inspired many against colonial exploitation in the Jharkhand region during British rule.
Continue ReadingReichstag Approves Naval Expansion Legislation
The Reichstag passed legislation in favor of an ambitious naval expansion program that mandated the construction of 38 battleships over a 20-year span, aimed at making Germany's fleet the largest globally. Pushed by naval advocates, the policy underscored Germany's pursuit of maritime dominance in the early 20th century, reflecting its growing industrial power and imperial ambitions.
Continue ReadingSecond German Naval Law Expands Imperial Navy
The Second German Naval Law was enacted to expand the Imperial German Navy, aiming to double its size. This ambitious legislation was primarily motivated by Germany's desire to compete with the British Royal Navy, establishing a formidable naval presence. The adoption of this law intensified an arms race in naval power between Germany and Great Britain, raising tensions and influencing maritime strategies in the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingHawaii is Established as a U.S. Territory
The Organic Act, signed into law, established Hawaii as a U.S. territory. This marked a significant political change for the islands, transitioning from a republic to American governance. The act aimed to provide a structured government for the territory, facilitating changes in administration and law. The move highlighted America's growing influence across the Pacific and reflected desires for economic expansion and strategic military positioning.
Continue ReadingAllied Forces Seize Taku Forts in China
Western Allied and Japanese forces captured the Taku Forts in Tianjin, China, during a significant engagement of the Boxer Rebellion. This strategic military action occurred as these foreign troops sought to counter the anti-foreign and anti-Christian uprising represented by the Boxers. The Taku Forts were vital for controlling access to the port of Tianjin, and their capture marked a crucial moment in the international response to the Boxer Rebellion, allowing for troop reinforcements and securing trade routes.
Continue ReadingCixi's Edict Against Foreign Diplomats
In June 1900, Empress Dowager Cixi of China issued a controversial edict calling for the death of all foreigners in Beijing, including diplomats and their families. This decision was heavily influenced by the growing anti-foreign sentiment and the Boxer Rebellion, which sought to expel foreign powers from China. The edict ignited a violent backlash and a wave of attacks against foreign nationals within the capital.
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