What Happened This Year 1912

Historical Events from This Year 1912 (View all 70)

Politics & Government

Establishment of the Republic of China

January 1st, 1912 113 years ago

The Republic of China was established after the fall of the Qing Dynasty, marking a significant shift from imperial rule to a republican form of governance. Sun Yat-sen was a key figure in this transition, becoming the provisional president. The establishment was declared in Nanjing, signaling the end of over two thousand years of imperial rule in China. Factors such as widespread discontent with the Qing government and the influence of revolutionary ideas played a crucial role in this monumental event that reshaped China's political landscape.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Scout Association Gains Royal Charter

January 4th, 1912 113 years ago

The Scout Association was incorporated throughout the British Empire by royal charter, marking a significant moment in organizational history. Founded by Robert Baden-Powell, the organization aimed to support the development of young people through outdoor activities and community service. The royal charter provided official recognition and authority, allowing the association to operate with greater legitimacy across various colonies. This incorporation aligned with the growing global interest in youth organizations and character development during the early 20th century.

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Politics & Government

Bolsheviks Formed at Prague Party Conference

January 5th, 1912 113 years ago

The sixth All-Russian Conference of the Russian Social Democratic Labour Party convenes in Prague, bringing together various factions of the party. During this conference, Vladimir Lenin and his supporters take a decisive step to separate from the majority faction led by Georgy Plekhanov, officially establishing the Bolshevik movement. This split solidifies the ideological divide within the party, emphasizing the need for a more revolutionary approach to the political landscape of Russia.

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Politics & Government

New Mexico Becomes the 47th U.S. State

January 6th, 1912 113 years ago

New Mexico was officially admitted to the Union as the 47th state of the United States after a long journey that began with its territorial status. The statehood movement gained momentum during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as residents advocated for representation and governance akin to other states. The act of admission was signed by President William Howard Taft, and it symbolized not only the growth of the nation but also the diverse cultural identity of New Mexico, characterized by its unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences.

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Science & Technology

Alfred Wegener Presents Continental Drift Theory

January 6th, 1912 113 years ago

German geophysicist Alfred Wegener first presented his groundbreaking theory of continental drift at a meeting of the German Geological Society in Frankfurt. Wegener proposed that continents are not fixed in place but move across the Earth's surface over geological timescales. His ideas were revolutionary, challenging the existing geologic opinions that had dominated for decades and laying the groundwork for later developments in plate tectonics. He argued that the continents once formed a single landmass called Pangaea, which eventually split apart and drifted to their current positions.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Founding of the South African Native National Congress

January 8th, 1912 113 years ago

The South African Native National Congress (SANNC) was established in Bloemfontein, aimed at uniting African people against discriminatory policies. A critical response to the growing institutionalized racism, its formational assembly included influential figures such as John Dube and Walter Sisulu. The Congress sought to advocate for the rights and welfare of Black South Africans who faced increasingly repressive laws under colonial rule. This new organization marked the beginning steps toward collective political action for the disenfranchised majority in South Africa.

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Born in 1912 (View all 370)

Kim Philby

British spy and intelligence officer
Born
January 1st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1988 36 years ago — 76 years old

A notable figure in British intelligence, played a key role during the Cold War. Worked for MI6 while secretly cooperating with the Soviet Union. Philby's espionage activities led to critical intelligence breaches affecting Western security. His treachery was part of the infamous Cambridge Five spy ring. In 1963, defected to the Soviet Union, where he lived for the remainder of his life.

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Renaude Lapointe

Journalist and politician in Canada
Born
January 3rd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2002 22 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1912, a career in journalism initiated with radio reporting, leading to roles in print journalism. Served as a Member of the National Assembly in Quebec, holding a seat for the Union Nationale from 1956 to 1970. Involved in regional politics and contributed to social issues through various media platforms. Held a significant position in the Quebec press, influencing public opinion on key political matters.

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Armand Lohikoski

Actor, director, and screenwriter
Born
January 3rd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
March 20th, 2005 19 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1912, an American-Finnish actor, director, and screenwriter whose career spanned several decades. Worked primarily in film and television, contributing significantly to the entertainment industry. Directed and wrote for various projects, showcasing a range of artistic styles and themes. Established a reputation in both acting and behind the camera.

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Federico Borrell García

Spanish soldier during civil war
Born
January 3rd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1936 89 years ago — 24 years old

Participated in the Spanish Civil War as a soldier in the Republican forces. Fought in various key battles against the Nationalists. Noteworthy for his role in the defense of Madrid. Captured in 1939 during the final stages of the war, subsequently exiled to France and later to the Americas, where he continued to share his experiences and maintain political activism.

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Jacques Ellul

French philosopher and sociologist
Born
January 6th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1994 30 years ago — 82 years old

A French philosopher, sociologist, and critic, this individual focused on the sociological implications of technology and the effects of modernity on society. Contributions include thorough analyses of the interplay between technology, culture, and society. Authored notable works such as 'The Technological Society,' which critiques the advancement of technology and its domination over human values. His critique of propaganda is detailed in 'Propaganda: The Formation of Men's Attitudes,' emphasizing the role of media in shaping public perception. Engaged in discussions surrounding ethics, politics, and the future of humanity amidst rapid technological change.

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Danny Thomas

Actor, comedian, producer, humanitarian
Born
January 6th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1991 34 years ago — 79 years old

An American actor, comedian, and producer achieved prominence in the mid-20th century. Starred in the television series 'Make Room for Daddy', which ran from 1953 to 1964. Founded St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in 1962, dedicated to treating pediatric catastrophic diseases. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts throughout life, focusing on children's health and welfare.

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People Who Died in 1912 (View all 95)

Clarence Dutton

American geologist and soldier
Born
May 15th, 1841 183 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1912 113 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent geologist and soldier, Dutton contributed significantly to the understanding of geology in the Grand Canyon region. Dutton served as a captain in the United States Army and participated in the survey of the American West. He was influential in the establishment of the U.S. Geological Survey, where he focused on geological mapping and studies. He authored several significant publications about the geological features of the Grand Canyon, emphasizing the processes of erosion and sedimentation.

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Sophia Jex-Blake

English physician and women's rights advocate
Born
January 21st, 1840 185 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1912 113 years ago — 71 years old

Pioneered the entry of women into medicine in the UK. Advocated for women's education and the right to practice medicine. Founded the London School of Medicine for Women in 1874, which became a significant institution for training women doctors. Contributed to the establishment of the Edinburgh School of Medicine for Women.

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Dmitry Milyutin

Russian field marshal and politician
Born
1816 209 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1912 113 years ago — 96 years old

A prominent figure in the Russian military during the 19th century. Played a key role in the formulation of military reforms following the Crimean War. Served as the Minister of War and implemented significant changes to the Russian Army aimed at modernization and efficiency. Oversaw the introduction of conscription and reorganized military education. His efforts contributed to the establishment of a more professional and capable military force. Milyutin's reforms had lasting impacts on the structure of the armed forces in Russia.

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Gustave de Molinari

Economist and anarchist theorist
Born
March 3rd, 1819 206 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1912 113 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1819, contributed to economic thought, focusing on the theories of free market and anarchism. Advocated for the privatization of public services, including defense and law enforcement. Published several works, including 'Principles of Political Economy' and 'The Society of Production.' Influenced libertarian thought and remains a significant figure in the study of political economy.

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Eloy Alfaro

Former president of Ecuador
Born
1842 183 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1912 113 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the president of Ecuador during two non-consecutive terms from 1895 to 1897 and then from 1906 to 1911. Advocated for liberal reforms, including the separation of church and state, modernization of the economy, and expansion of civil rights. Faced significant opposition from conservative factions and military leaders throughout the presidency, which culminated in his assassination in 1912. Played a crucial role in the Liberal Revolution of Ecuador.

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Herman Bang

Danish journalist and author
Born
1857 168 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1912 113 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent journalist and author, contributed significantly to Danish literature and journalism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Authored several influential works, often exploring themes of human psychology and social issues. Established a career in journalism, becoming a leading voice in Danish media. His writing was characterized by a deep empathy and an understanding of the human condition, contributing to the development of modern Danish literature.

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