What Happened This Year 1900

Historical Events from This Year 1900

Natural Disasters

Devastating hurricane strikes Galveston, Texas

September 8th, 1900 124 years ago

A powerful hurricane struck Galveston, Texas, causing catastrophic damage and resulting in the deaths of approximately 8,000 people. The storm, arriving in the early morning hours, unleashed winds estimated at 130 mph and a storm surge that inundated the coastal city. Galveston, which was a major port and cultural center at the time, was largely unprepared for such a disaster. The combination of high winds and flooding led to extensive destruction of buildings and infrastructure, highlighting the city's vulnerability to hurricanes.

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Military & Warfare

Filipino Insurgents Defeat American Troops

September 13th, 1900 124 years ago

During the Philippine–American War, Filipino insurgents successfully ambushed and defeated a small column of American troops led by Captain William T. S. Waller at Pulang Lupa. Utilizing their knowledge of the terrain and strategy, the Filipino forces inflicted significant casualties. The American troops were on a mission to secure the area but were met with fierce resistance, showcasing the resilience of the Filipino fighters against colonial forces.

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Military & Warfare

Filipinos Achieve Victory at Mabitac

September 17th, 1900 124 years ago

Filipino forces led by Juan Cailles achieved a significant victory against American troops commanded by Colonel Benjamin F. Cheatham Jr. at Mabitac, located in the Laguna province of the Philippines. This clash exemplified the increasing resistance by Filipino fighters during the Philippine-American War, as they sought to assert independence against American colonial rule. The battle highlighted the tactical ingenuity of Cailles’ forces and underscored the difficulties faced by U.S. military leaders in pacifying the archipelago amidst strong nationalist sentiments.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Paris Congress Opposes British Policy in South Africa

October 5th, 1900 124 years ago

The Peace Congress held in Paris aimed to criticize British actions in South Africa and reaffirm the Boer Republic's claim to self-determination. Representatives from various countries gathered to discuss the impact of the Second Boer War, denouncing Britain's imperialistic tendencies. This gathering highlighted growing international sympathy for the Boers as they faced British military aggression. The congress became a significant platform for voicing opposition to colonialist policies, reflecting a broader discourse regarding the rights of oppressed nations.

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Politics & Government

Cook Islands' Official Annexation by Britain

October 9th, 1900 124 years ago

The Cook Islands were officially annexed as a territory of the United Kingdom in 1900. This marked a significant change in governance for the islands, which had seen increasing European influence and interest throughout the preceding decades. The British administration aimed to extend its control in the Pacific region and establish a presence against competitors. The annexation also came with a promise of protection and trade benefits, which furthered Britain's imperial interests in the area.

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Politics & Government

Bernhard von Bülow Assumes German Chancellorship

October 18th, 1900 124 years ago

Count Bernhard von Bülow was appointed Chancellor of Germany, succeeding Chlodwig Carl Viktor, Prince of Hohenlohe-Schillingsfürst. Bülow, a member of the German imperial government, was recognized for his loyalty to Emperor Wilhelm II and his ability to navigate the complex political landscape of the era. His tenure prioritized foreign policy and strengthening Germany's position in Europe, reflecting the ambitions of the German Empire during a period of intense nationalistic fervor.

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Science & Technology

Max Planck Formulates Black-Body Radiation Law

October 19th, 1900 124 years ago

Max Planck presented his groundbreaking work on black-body radiation, offering a new theoretical framework that would revolutionize physics. The formulation stemmed from attempts to explain the observed spectrum emitted by perfect black bodies, which traditional physics could not adequately describe. Planck's law, derived from his theoretical research, introduced the concept of quantized energy levels. This innovative idea was presented at a meeting of the German Physical Society in Berlin, marking a pivotal moment in the development of quantum theory.

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Politics & Government

U.S. Plans to Purchase Danish West Indies

October 24th, 1900 124 years ago

The U.S. government disclosed its intention to purchase the Danish West Indies for $7 million. This acquisition was strategically significant, as these islands were seen as crucial for military and economic expansion in the Caribbean. The announcement underscored the United States’ growing interest in the Caribbean region and its intentions to enhance its geopolitical presence. The negotiations were driven by concerns over European imperialism in the region, with the U.S. aiming to secure a foothold among various European colonial powers operating in the Caribbean.

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Politics & Government

McKinley and Roosevelt Win Re-election

November 6th, 1900 124 years ago

William McKinley was re-elected President of the United States, continuing his term alongside Vice-President Theodore Roosevelt. The Republican Party achieved significant victories in the congressional elections, enhancing their control in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. This election further solidified the Republican dominance during this era, reflecting public support for McKinley’s policies and the economic growth experienced in the nation. The election took place under a backdrop of industrial expansion and a national recovery from the economic turmoil of the 1890s.

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