What Happened This Year 1901

Historical Events from This Year 1901

Education & Academia

Founding of Silliman University in the Philippines

August 28th, 1901 123 years ago

Silliman University was established in Dumaguete, Philippines, becoming the first American private school in the country. Founded by Dr. David Silliman, the university opened its doors to students emphasizing a well-rounded American-style education. The school played a crucial role in the development of higher education in the Philippines, providing educational opportunities to Filipinos during a time of American colonization. The establishment celebrated its first classes in a small building, which laid the foundation for future growth and expansion.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Roosevelt's 'Speak Softly' Quote at Fair

September 2nd, 1901 123 years ago

Theodore Roosevelt famously declared, "Speak softly and carry a big stick" at the Minnesota State Fair while serving as Vice President of the United States. This phrase, encapsulating his foreign policy approach, emphasized diplomacy backed by military strength. Roosevelt's address to the crowd highlighted his views on America's role in global affairs. He sought to convey the importance of a strong yet measured stance in international relations.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Leon Czolgosz Assassination of President McKinley

September 6th, 1901 123 years ago

Leon Czolgosz, an unemployed anarchist, assassinated U.S. President William McKinley at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. Czolgosz approached the President under the pretext of shaking his hand and shot him with a revolver. Despite immediate medical attention, McKinley succumbed to his wounds a few days later, marking a pivotal moment in American history.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Boxer Protocol Concludes Conflict in China

September 7th, 1901 123 years ago

The Boxer Protocol was signed by Qing dynasty representatives and foreign powers, marking the end of the Boxer Rebellion. This uprising, which began in 1899, was fueled by anti-foreign sentiment and aimed at expelling foreign influence from China. With the signing of the protocol, China agreed to various punitive measures, including payment of large indemnities and military occupation of certain regions. The agreement symbolized a significant moment in China's relations with foreign powers and set the stage for future interactions.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

McKinley Assassination Leads to Roosevelt Presidency

September 14th, 1901 123 years ago

William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States, succumbed to gunshot wounds inflicted by anarchist Leon Czolgosz on September 6. After days of struggle, McKinley died on September 14 in Buffalo, New York. His assassination took place during a public event, highlighting growing tensions and fears associated with anarchist movements of the time. McKinley’s death set the stage for Theodore Roosevelt, who was Vice President at the time, to assume the presidency, marking a significant shift in American politics.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Boers Capture Squadron of 17th Lancers

September 17th, 1901 123 years ago

In September 1901, during the Second Boer War, a squadron of the British 17th Lancers was captured by Boer forces at the Battle of Elands River. The engagement took place in a tense atmosphere, marking another skirmish in a protracted conflict characterized by guerrilla warfare. The Boers successfully ambushed the squadron, highlighting their tactical acumen and the challenges faced by British forces in the region. This incident underscored the vulnerabilities within the British military presence in South Africa.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Boers Defeat British at Blood River Poort

September 17th, 1901 123 years ago

A Boer force, during the Second Boer War, achieved a significant victory against a British contingent at Blood River Poort. The confrontation, part of the larger guerrilla warfare tactics employed by the Boers, showcased their strategies and resilience. This battle further highlighted the challenges faced by the British forces as they struggled to maintain control in a region marked by relentless Boer opposition amid the ongoing conflict.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Filipino Guerrillas Clash with American Forces

September 28th, 1901 123 years ago

Filipino guerrillas engaged American soldiers in a fierce firefight, resulting in the deaths of over forty U.S. troops and the loss of 28 guerrillas. This confrontation occurred amid the ongoing Philippine-American War, a conflict arising from the Philippines' desire for independence following the Spanish-American War.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

The Executive Mansion Becomes the White House

October 12th, 1901 123 years ago

President Theodore Roosevelt officially renamed the 'Executive Mansion' to the 'White House.' This renaming occurred in a move to create a more accessible and recognizable identity for the president's official residence. Roosevelt believed that the name 'White House' would better resonate with the American public, elevating the stature of the residence in the eyes of citizens and visitors alike.

Continue Reading