What Happened This Year 1911
Historical Events from This Year 1911
Harriet Quimby Becomes First U.S. Female Pilot
Harriet Quimby succeeded in her pilot's test to become the first woman in the United States to earn an Aero Club of America aviator's certificate. This significant achievement occurred at the Bretton Woods Aerodrome in New Hampshire, showcasing not just her skills but also the burgeoning era of aviation and women's participation in this new field. Quimby's accomplishment marked a pivotal moment in the recognition of women in aviation.
Continue ReadingThe Mona Lisa Theft by Vincenzo Peruggia
Vincenzo Peruggia, a former Louvre employee, stole the famous painting, the Mona Lisa, from the Musée du Louvre in Paris. He executed the theft by hiding the artwork under his clothing, leaving the museum on a Monday when it was closed for maintenance. Peruggia believed the painting should be returned to Italy, claiming it was wrongfully taken by Napoleon. This audacious act would lead to one of the most famous art thefts in history.
Continue ReadingManuel de Arriaga becomes Portugal's first president
Manuel de Arriaga was elected and sworn in as the first President of Portugal following the Republican revolution of 1910. The election took place in August 1911, a pivotal moment in Portuguese history as the country transitioned from monarchy to a republican form of government. Arriaga's presidency marked the beginning of a new political structure in Portugal, with the aim of establishing a stable republican regime after decades of royal rule. The ceremony formalizing his role was a significant symbol of the new political order in the nation.
Continue ReadingCanadian Naval Service Becomes Royal Canadian Navy
The Canadian Naval Service was designated as the Royal Canadian Navy, formally recognizing its operations and integrating it into the British Empire's naval network. This transition marked a significant step towards establishing a distinct Canadian military identity. The move occurred in Ottawa, influenced by the growing need for Canada to take a more active role in maritime defense following the naval arms race and the changing geopolitics of the early 20th century. The renaming symbolized enhanced sovereignty and responsibility for Canada's own defense.
Continue ReadingIshi Emerges from the California Wilderness
In 1911, Ishi, a member of the Yahi tribe, emerged from the wilds of northeastern California, marking the first contact with European Americans in decades. For years, he had lived undisturbed, avoiding outside contact after the decimation of his community. Ishi's arrival sparked intense interest and debate, as he became a symbol of Native American culture and resilience. His encounter with anthropologists led to significant attention and research into the Yahi way of life.
Continue ReadingFire Devastates Ocean Park CA Area
A significant fire broke out on Fraser's Million Dollar Pier in Ocean Park, California, engulfing numerous structures and causing substantial destruction. The fire, which ignited in the early hours, rapidly spread across six to eight square blocks, fueled by the wooden architecture of the seaside community. Firefighters struggled to contain the blaze due to limited resources and strong winds, ultimately leading to widespread damage. The incident drew public attention and raised awareness about fire safety within coastal towns.
Continue ReadingGuillaume Apollinaire Arrested for Theft Suspicions
Guillaume Apollinaire, a renowned French poet, was arrested on suspicion of stealing the Mona Lisa from the Louvre museum. Following the painting's disappearance in August 1911, police investigated Apollinaire after he reportedly spoke of art theft in his circles. His close friend, Pablo Picasso, was also questioned, adding intrigue to the case. Apollinaire was held for several days before being released without charges, but the scandal heightened public interest in the stolen masterpiece.
Continue ReadingAssassination of Premier Pyotr Stolypin at the Opera
Pyotr Stolypin, the Russian Premier, was shot by Dmitry Bogrov while attending a performance of Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's opera 'The Tale of Tsar Saltan' at the Kiev Opera House. The assassination took place in the presence of Tsar Nicholas II, raising immediate concerns about security and political stability in Russia. Bogrov, reportedly a political radical, executed the attack amid a backdrop of unrest and opposition to Stolypin's reformist policies. This incident marked a significant turning point in Russian politics.
Continue ReadingRMS Olympic Collides with HMS Hawke
The RMS Olympic, a luxury liner of the White Star Line, collided with the British warship HMS Hawke in the Solent near England. This incident resulted from Olympic's sudden maneuver to avoid a collision with another vessel, leading to the warship's unexpected impact against her side. The collision caused damage to both ships but no casualties were reported, showcasing the navigational challenges faced by large ships at sea.
Continue Reading