What Happened This Year 1901

Historical Events from This Year 1901 (View all 55)

Politics & Government

Establishment of Southern Nigeria Protectorate

January 1st, 1901 124 years ago

The Southern Nigeria Protectorate was established under British administration, consolidating colonial control over the southern regions of Nigeria. This move aimed to streamline governance in a territory previously divided among various British interests. By unifying these regions, the British sought to enhance administrative efficiency and facilitate economic exploitation of local resources. The establishment marked a significant step in British colonial policy in West Africa.

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Politics & Government

Australia Becomes a Federation Under Edmund Barton

January 1st, 1901 124 years ago

The Commonwealth of Australia was formed when six British colonies—New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and Western Australia—united to create a federal system of governance. This federation came into effect on January 1, 1901, with Edmund Barton becoming the first Prime Minister. The movement towards federation was driven by the desire for a united national identity, better defense, and economic stability among the colonies, and the new government was based in Melbourne, paving the way for Australia's evolution into a cohesive nation.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Automobile Club Launches Highway Sign Initiative

January 10th, 1901 124 years ago

The Automobile Club of America took a significant step in promoting safe driving by installing directional and informational signs along major highways. This initiative aimed to guide drivers and travelers while enhancing road safety. Implemented across key routes, the project marked a pivotal moment for automobile travel in the early 20th century, addressing the increasing number of motorists seeking assistance on their journeys. The signs provided vital information, showing the growing recognition of the automobile's role in American society and the necessity for better infrastructure.

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Economics & Industry

Discovery of Spindletop Oil Gusher

January 10th, 1901 124 years ago

A massive oil gusher was struck at Spindletop in Beaumont, Texas, leading to a newfound oil boom in the region. This discovery, led by Pattillo Higgins and his team, resulted in the eruption of oil 100 feet into the air, marking the beginning of the oil industry in Texas. The gusher's output dramatically exceeded expectations, leading to a rush of prospectors and investors attracted by the prospect of wealth. The event fundamentally transformed the regional economy and contributed to the establishment of the United States as a major oil producer.

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Politics & Government

Queen Victoria Stricken with Paralysis

January 19th, 1901 124 years ago

Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. Just three days later, she passed away at the age of 81. The Queen had been a pivotal figure in British history, representing the nation during a period of vast expansion and social change. Her death marked the end of the Victorian era, an influential time characterized by industrial progress and the expansion of the British Empire.

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Politics & Government

Edward VII Ascends to the Throne

January 22nd, 1901 124 years ago

Following the death of Queen Victoria, Edward VII was officially proclaimed king of the United Kingdom. This transition marked a new era after Victoria's lengthy reign of over 63 years. The proclamation took place in London and was attended by key officials and dignitaries from across the country. The moment was both a significant point in British history and a ceremonial transition between two very different monarchs.

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Born in 1901 (View all 289)

Bob Marshall

Environmental Activist, Wilderness Society Co-founder
Born
January 2nd, 1901 124 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1939 85 years ago — 38 years old

An environmental activist and wilderness advocate, Marshall co-founded The Wilderness Society in 1935. His work contributed significantly to the conservation movement in the United States. Marshall's passion for preserving natural spaces was rooted in his own experiences in the wilderness, including extensive hiking and exploration of the American backcountry. He authored several influential works on outdoor life and conservation, promoting the idea of wilderness as a vital component of national heritage. He played a pivotal role in advocating for the establishment of national parks and forests, emphasizing the importance of protecting natural spaces for future generations.

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Ngô Đình Diệm

Vietnamese politician, 1st President
Born
January 3rd, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the first President of the Republic of Vietnam from 1955 until his assassination in 1963. A lawyer by profession, held various government positions prior to presidency, including Minister of the Interior. Established a regime characterized by its opposition to communism, receiving support from the United States. Initiated social and economic reforms but faced criticism for authoritarian governance and suppression of dissent.

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C. L. R. James

Trinidadian journalist and historian
Born
January 4th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1989 35 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1901, this individual contributed significantly to Caribbean intellectual thought and Marxist theory. Education took place in Trinidad and London, where engagement with socialist movements occurred. The major work, 'The Black Jacobins', analyzed the Haitian Revolution and its implications for post-colonial societies. Additionally, involvement in cricket as a historian and commentator enhanced understanding of the sport in the Caribbean. The synthesis of literature, history, and politics characterized contributions, with deep explorations into the nature of freedom and colonialism within a Caribbean context.

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Vilma Bánky

Hungarian-American actress in silent films
Born
January 9th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1991 34 years ago — 90 years old

Originally from Hungary, starred in several notable silent films and became a leading actress in the early 20th century. Gained prominence in the United States after her migration, achieving stardom in movies such as 'The Dark Angel' and 'The Magic Flame'. Showcased talents in drama and romance, earning a reputation for captivating performances.

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Kwon Ki-ok

Korean pilot and aviation pioneer
Born
January 11th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1988 36 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1901, a significant figure in early Korean aviation. Achieved recognition as one of the first licensed pilots in Korea. Contributed to the development of aviation in Korea by participating in various flight exhibitions and training programs. Later, played a crucial role in promoting aviation education in the country.

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Karl Künstler

German SS officer
Born
January 12th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 44 years old

Served as a high-ranking officer in the SS during World War II. Held the position of commandant at various concentration camps, overseeing operations and management. Involved in the implementation of Nazi policies that led to the persecution of numerous individuals. Engaged in administrative roles focused on the logistics of camp operations.

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People Who Died in 1901 (View all 76)

Ignatius L. Donnelly

American politician and writer
Born
1831 194 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1901 124 years ago — 70 years old

Engaged in American politics during the late 19th century, contributed to the Populist movement. Authored several books, including 'Atlantis: The Antediluvian World,' which proposed theories about Atlantis and ancient civilizations. Served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1871 to 1873. Conducted studies in fringe science, promoting controversial ideas about lost civilizations and humanity's past.

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Richard Copley Christie

English lawyer and legal scholar
Born
1830 195 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1901 124 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent lawyer and academic, contributed significantly to legal scholarship and education. Focused on areas of law that shaped modern legal thought. Actively engaged in the discussion and critique of legal principles and practices. Developed educational programs to train future lawyers and engaged in various legal reforms throughout the career. Participated in significant legal forums and collaborated with other legal experts to advance understanding of law.

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James Dickson

Politician, 13th Premier of Queensland
Born
November 30th, 1832 192 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1901 124 years ago — 68 years old

Born in England, migrated to Australia and established a political career in Queensland. Served as the 13th Premier of Queensland from 1898 to 1904. Focused on public infrastructure and education during tenure. Contributed significantly to the development of railways in Queensland and advocated for land reform.

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Charles Hermite

Mathematician, Hermite polynomials creator
Born
1822 203 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1901 124 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent mathematician specialized in analysis and algebra. Contributed significantly to the theory of determinants and algebraic forms. Established the Hermite polynomials, used widely in probability and physics. Introduced concepts related to elliptic functions and transcendental numbers. Served as a professor at the University of Paris, contributing to the education of future mathematicians.

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Mandell Creighton

Bishop and historian in England
Born
1843 182 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1901 124 years ago — 58 years old

Served as the Bishop of London from 1897 until death in 1901. Contributed significantly to ecclesiastical history, focusing on the Church of England. Authored several works on church history, including a prominent multi-volume history of the Papacy. Engaged in theological discourse and was a key figure in the Anglo-Catholic movement.

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Jules Barbier

French poet and playwright
Born
1825 200 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1901 124 years ago — 76 years old

A poet and playwright from France, contributed significantly to the literary world in the 19th century. Collaborated with composers such as Jules Massenet and Charles Gounod. Authored librettos for several operas, bringing literary works to the operatic stage. His plays often reflected themes of romance and fantasy, resonating with the cultural movements of the time.

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