What Happened This Year 1914
Historical Events from This Year 1914 (View all 102)
First Scheduled Airline to Use Winged Aircraft
The St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line launched its operations, becoming the world’s first scheduled airline to utilize a winged aircraft. Initially established in Florida, the service featured a Benoist XIV biplane, which transported passengers across Tampa Bay. The airline aimed to offer regular air travel for both business and leisure, setting the stage for future commercial aviation.
Continue ReadingFord Motor Company Introduces $5 Workday
The Ford Motor Company announced the implementation of an eight-hour workday with a minimum daily wage of $5, significantly improving workers' conditions. This announcement, made by Henry Ford at the company's Detroit plant, aimed to enhance productivity and worker satisfaction while reducing manpower turnover. The move was unprecedented in the American industry and was designed to attract and retain skilled labor during a period of rapid industrial growth. This change also included bonuses and was part of Ford's broader vision for reforming labor practices in the automotive industry.
Continue ReadingFounding of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity
Phi Beta Sigma fraternity was founded by African-American students at Howard University in Washington, D.C., aiming to foster brotherhood, scholarship, and service among its members. Founded by A. Langston Taylor, Leonard F. Morse, and Charles I. Brown, the fraternity sought to address the social challenges faced by African-American men and emphasize the importance of community service and academic excellence. The fraternity's establishment marked a significant step in civil rights and provided a platform for African-American students to unite and support one another during a time of racial segregation.
Continue ReadingThe Sinking of the Karluk in Arctic Ice
The Karluk, the flagship of the Canadian Arctic Expedition, succumbed to the crushing forces of the Arctic ice, leading to a dramatic turn of events. After being trapped for several months, the ship was compromised by the pressure of shifting ice floes in the Chukchi Sea. The crew, under the command of legendary Arctic explorer Vilhjalmur Stefansson, faced a dire situation as they sought to survive in the harsh environment. The vessel ultimately sank, forcing the crew to navigate the unforgiving Arctic landscape to ensure their survival.
Continue ReadingFormation of the American Society of Composers
The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, commonly known as ASCAP, was founded in New York City to administer and protect the copyrights of its members’ musical works. This organization aimed to ensure that composers, songwriters, and music publishers would receive proper remuneration for the public performance of their music. The establishment of ASCAP was a significant step in the music industry, representing a collective effort by artists to secure their creative rights against unauthorized usage.
Continue ReadingLaunch of HMHS Britannic in Belfast Shipyard
The HMHS Britannic, sister ship to the ill-fated RMS Titanic, was launched at Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast. This ship was designed primarily for passenger service but also equipped for wartime medical purposes. The launch followed rigorous construction and design, featuring safety improvements based on Titanic’s tragedy. With a length of 882 feet, it was one of the largest ships in the world at that time.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1914 (View all 430)
Noor Inayat Khan
An agent in the Special Operations Executive during World War II, undertook dangerous missions in occupied France. She trained as a wireless operator and became the first female radio operator to be sent into France. After several successful operations, was captured by the Gestapo and executed in 1944. Her bravery is commemorated in various memorials and literature.
Continue ReadingGeorge Reeves
An American actor and director, became widely recognized for portraying Superman in the 1950s television series 'Adventures of Superman'. The show aired from 1952 to 1958, contributing to the character's enduring popularity. Prior to this role, appeared in films during the 1940s, including 'Gone with the Wind' and 'The Best Years of Our Lives'. After the conclusion of 'Adventures of Superman', faced challenges in securing roles that matched the iconic character he portrayed. The actor's life was cut short when he died under mysterious circumstances in 1959, which added to the intrigue surrounding his legacy.
Continue ReadingKenny Clarke
A prominent figure in the development of modern jazz, played a key role in the emergence of bebop in the 1940s. Contributed to numerous recordings and performances with influential artists such as Dizzy Gillespie and Thelonious Monk. Established a distinctive drumming style that emphasized the use of the ride cymbal, influencing generations of musicians. Led bands and participated in pivotal jazz festivals, furthering the genre's evolution.
Continue ReadingYu Kuo-hwa
Served as the 23rd Premier of the Republic of China from 1989 to 1990. Focused on economic development and modernization during the tenure. Participated in various government roles before becoming Premier, including serving as the Minister of Finance and Minister of the Interior. Played a significant role in Taiwan's political landscape in the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingOsa Massen
An actress active in film during the 1940s and 1950s, primarily in Hollywood. Massen appeared in several films, often portraying glamorous roles that highlighted her beauty and talent. Key performances took place in movies such as 'The Stranger' and 'The Devil on Wheels'. Massen also had a notable stage presence, demonstrating versatility across different forms of performance. Her career spanned both European and American cinema, contributing to a body of work that reflected the cinematic styles of her time.
Continue ReadingSelahattin Ülkümen
Served as a Turkish diplomat in France during World War II. Provided extensive assistance to Jewish refugees escaping the Holocaust, often issuing visas that allowed them to enter Turkey. Demonstrated significant courage in the face of pressure from Nazi authorities to turn over refugees. After the war, continued work in foreign service and made contributions to diplomatic relations.
Continue ReadingPeople Who Died in 1914 (View all 89)
Simon Bolivar Buckner
Served as a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War, participating in several key battles, including the Battle of Fort Donelson. Later became the 30th Governor of Kentucky from 1887 to 1890. Contributed to the political landscape of Kentucky and held various military and civic roles throughout his career.
Continue ReadingCarl Jacobsen
Established Carlsberg Brewery, a major beer producer in Europe. Promoted culture and arts through significant contributions to museums and theaters. Funded the construction of the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek in Copenhagen, showcasing fine art collections. Engaged in philanthropy throughout his life, leaving a legacy of support for various cultural institutions.
Continue ReadingTheodor Kittelsen
A prominent Norwegian painter and illustrator, contributed significantly to the artistic depiction of Norwegian folklore and nature. Kittelsen's works emphasized the beauty and mystery of the natural landscape, often integrating mythical and supernatural elements. His illustrations in children's books and fairy tales brought traditional tales to life, captivating audiences. The iconic illustration series 'Hamlet' and 'Nattergalen' reflect his distinctive style. Throughout his career, exhibited at numerous galleries, showcasing oil paintings and illustrations that celebrated Norwegian culture and scenery. Inspired by folklore and the wilderness, Kittelsen remains a seminal figure in Norwegian art history.
Continue ReadingFrank Avery Hutchins
A prominent American librarian and educator, significantly contributed to library science in the early 20th century. Served as the president of the American Library Association (ALA), advocating for library expansion and improved access to information. Held various roles in academia and actively participated in the development of library standards and practices. Focused on the education of librarians and promoted the importance of libraries in community development.
Continue ReadingJoshua Chamberlain
Served as a Union general during the American Civil War and participated in notable battles such as Gettysburg. Elected as the 32nd Governor of Maine, he served four terms and focused on education and economic development. Chamberlain was awarded the Medal of Honor for bravery at the Battle of Gettysburg. After the war, he became involved in higher education, serving as president of Bowdoin College.
Continue ReadingJohn Tenniel
An English illustrator and political cartoonist, Tenniel is best recognized for his work with Lewis Carroll's 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' and its sequel 'Through the Looking-Glass'. Tenniel provided illustrations that combined fantasy and whimsy, cementing the visual character of the titles and influencing adaptations for generations. His career also included contributions to 'Punch' magazine, where he created satirical illustrations that commented on Victorian society. Tenniel's detailed and imaginative art won widespread acclaim, leading to his appointment as a knight in 1893.
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