What Happened This Year 1900

Historical Events from This Year 1900

Military & Warfare

Capture of Tientsin by the Eight-Nation Alliance

July 14th, 1900 124 years ago

The Eight-Nation Alliance captured Tientsin, a pivotal moment during the Boxer Rebellion. This coalition, primarily composed of Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, the United States, Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy, advanced to Tientsin to protect their nationals and suppress the Boxer uprising. The assault on the city showcased international military collaboration and marked a significant turning point in the conflict.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Paris Métro's First Line Begins Operations

July 19th, 1900 124 years ago

The opening of the first line of the Paris Métro marked a significant advancement in urban transportation. The 9.3-kilometer line, stretching from Porte de Vincennes to Place de la République, was inaugurated by Mayor Georges Clemenceau. Built to alleviate Paris's growing traffic congestion and improve public transport accessibility, the Métro aimed to connect the city more effectively. Its introduction transformed mobility in Paris, setting the stage for a modern, efficient metro system.

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Politics & Government

Canada Limits Immigration for Paupers and Criminals

July 23rd, 1900 124 years ago

Amid growing concerns over immigration, Canada enacted stricter policies to prevent paupers and criminals from entering the country. This decision was largely influenced by the influx of individuals perceived as burdens on public resources. The Canadian government aimed to balance immigration benefits while maintaining social order, reflecting contemporary societal anxieties regarding economic stability and social welfare.

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Politics & Government

Kaiser Wilhelm II's Disparaging Speech About Germans

July 27th, 1900 124 years ago

Kaiser Wilhelm II delivered a speech in which he provocatively compared Germans to the Huns, a group known historically for their invasions and brutality. This speech ignited a significant backlash across Europe, adding to the existing anti-German sentiments during the time. The term 'Hun' became a derogatory term for Germans, particularly during World War I, shaping perceptions of the German people and their military actions. This rhetoric played a prominent role in public discourse and propaganda.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of King Umberto I of Italy

July 29th, 1900 124 years ago

King Umberto I of Italy was assassinated by the anarchist Gaetano Bresci in Monza while he was attending a public event. The assassination was motivated by the king's policies and his perceived failure to address social issues affecting the working class in Italy. Bresci, who had been living in the United States, returned to Italy to carry out the assassination as an act of anarchist rebellion against monarchy and authority.

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Economics & Industry

Founding of Firestone Tire and Rubber Company

August 3rd, 1900 124 years ago

The Firestone Tire and Rubber Company was founded by Harvey S. Firestone in Akron, Ohio. The company began manufacture of tires for automobiles, which were rapidly increasing in popularity due to the rise of the automotive industry. Firestone recognized the need for quality tires that could withstand rough conditions, thus aiming to provide reliable products to consumers. His commitment to quality and innovation would soon set Firestone apart in the burgeoning market for automotive supplies.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Deutschland Sets New Eastward Passage Record

August 13th, 1900 124 years ago

The steamer Deutschland of Hamburg America Lines made headlines when it docked in Plymouth, England after an extraordinary eastward voyage from New York. Completing the journey in just five days, 11 hours, and 45 minutes, the vessel set a new record for crossing the Atlantic, beating its own previous mark by over three hours. This achievement highlighted the advancements in maritime technology and boosted the reputation of the Hamburg America Lines as a leader in transatlantic travel.

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Military & Warfare

Allied Forces Capture Beijing During Boxer Rebellion

August 14th, 1900 124 years ago

The Eight-Nation Alliance, comprised of Western powers and Japan, occupied Beijing during their military campaign against the Boxer Rebellion. This rebellion, fueled by anti-foreign and anti-Christian sentiments among Chinese peasants, had resulted in widespread violence and chaos. The occupation aimed to protect foreign nationals and re-establish order in the capital. The military action culminated in the storming of the city after weeks of fighting, showcasing the might of the coalition against the insurgent Boxers. The entrance of Allied troops marked a significant turning point in the conflict.

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Military & Warfare

Siege Lifted at the Battle of Elands River

August 16th, 1900 124 years ago

A besieged force of 500 soldiers consisting of Australians, Rhodesians, Canadians, and British was encircled by 2,000 to 3,000 Boers at Brakfontein Drift. The siege lasted for 13 days until a British relief operation successfully lifted the siege, allowing the besieged forces to escape and move to safety. This confrontation highlighted the intense struggles faced during the Second Boer War.

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