What Happened This Year 1911

Historical Events from This Year 1911

Military & Warfare

USS Terry's First Airplane Rescue at Sea

January 30th, 1911 114 years ago

The USS Terry successfully performed the first airplane rescue at sea, saving Douglas McCurdy approximately 16 kilometers from Havana, Cuba. This pioneering event marked a significant moment in aviation and naval operations, showcasing the potential for military aircraft to conduct lifesaving missions over water, thereby paving the way for future maritime air rescues.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

First Official Airmail Flight in India

February 18th, 1911 114 years ago

Henri Pequet piloted the first official airmail flight, transporting 6,500 letters from Allahabad to Naini, a distance of about 10 kilometers. This pioneering journey marked a significant step in the development of airmail services, showcasing the potential for aviation in postal delivery. Pequet, a 23-year-old aviator, helped to demonstrate the speed and efficiency that aerial transport could offer over traditional ground methods.

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Crime & Law

Andrey Yushchinsky's Murder Sparks Controversy

March 25th, 1911 114 years ago

Andrey Yushchinsky, a Jewish boy, was murdered in Kiev, prompting allegations against a Jewish man, Mendel Beilis. The crime attracted widespread attention, leading to a notable court trial that ignited discussions about anti-Semitism in Russia and the broader implications of such accusations. The case became a symbol of societal tensions and fueled public outrage among Jewish communities, who perceived the trial as a manifestation of deep-rooted prejudice against them.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire Claims Lives

March 25th, 1911 114 years ago

A fire broke out at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in New York City, resulting in the deaths of 146 garment workers, primarily young immigrant women. The blaze, fueled by fabric and paper, spread rapidly. Many workers could not escape, as exits were locked, forcing some to jump from the building. The tragedy highlighted unsafe working conditions and led to labor reforms.

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Politics & Government

Australia's First National Census Conducted

April 2nd, 1911 114 years ago

The Australian Bureau of Statistics executed the inaugural national census, aiming to gather demographic and social data across the continent. This comprehensive count was significant for policymaking and resource allocation. Conducted at the beginning of February, the census collected various personal information from the population, establishing a systematic approach to national records. This marked a pivotal moment in Australia's statistical history.

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Politics & Government

Dedë Gjon Luli Dedvukaj Raises Albanian Flag

April 6th, 1911 114 years ago

Dedë Gjon Luli Dedvukaj, a prominent leader of the Malësori Albanians, raised the Albanian flag in Tuzi, Montenegro, marking a significant moment for Albanian nationalism. This act not only symbolized the desire for autonomy and recognition but also served as a rallying point for the Albanian people in their struggle against foreign rule. The ceremony took place amidst rising tensions in the Balkans, highlighting the aspirations for independence and unity among Albanians.

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Science & Technology

Heike Kamerlingh Onnes Discovers Superconductivity

April 8th, 1911 114 years ago

Heike Kamerlingh Onnes, a Dutch physicist, made a groundbreaking discovery in 1911 by cooling mercury to a temperature of around 4.2 Kelvin (-268.95°C). He observed that mercury exhibited zero electrical resistance, a phenomenon later termed superconductivity. This discovery was made at the University of Leiden in the Netherlands while Onnes was conducting experiments on the properties of materials at cryogenic temperatures. The implications of this finding were profound, as it opened the doors to a new understanding of quantum mechanics and materials science.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

The Second Canton Uprising in Guangzhou

April 27th, 1911 114 years ago

A revolutionary uprising occurred in Guangzhou, targeting Qing rule. It was led by members of the Tongmenghui, a secret society aiming to overthrow the Qing dynasty and establish a republic. The uprising aimed to inspire further revolts in other provinces. However, it was swiftly suppressed by Qing authorities, resulting in arrests and casualties.

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Education & Academia

Founding of Tsinghua University in Beijing

April 29th, 1911 114 years ago

Tsinghua University was established in Beijing, China, in response to the urgent need for modernization and technical education during a time of great change in the nation. Initially set up to educate Chinese students in the United States, it quickly evolved into a comprehensive institution focusing on engineering, sciences, and liberal arts. The founding of the university marked a significant shift towards Western-style education in China, aiming to prepare students to contribute to national development.

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