What Happened This Year 1914

Historical Events from This Year 1914

Transportation & Infrastructure

First Scheduled Airline to Use Winged Aircraft

January 1st, 1914 111 years ago

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.

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Economics & Industry

Ford Motor Company Introduces $5 Workday

January 5th, 1914 111 years ago

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.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Founding of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity

January 9th, 1914 111 years ago

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.

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Exploration & Discovery

The Sinking of the Karluk in Arctic Ice

January 11th, 1914 111 years ago

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.

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Arts & Culture

Formation of the American Society of Composers

February 13th, 1914 111 years ago

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.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Launch of HMHS Britannic in Belfast Shipyard

February 26th, 1914 111 years ago

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.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

China Becomes Part of Universal Postal Union

March 1st, 1914 111 years ago

China officially became a member of the Universal Postal Union, enhancing its international postal services and communication capabilities. This move positioned China to benefit from global postal regulations and cooperation, allowing for more efficient exchange of mail with other countries. By joining, China aimed to modernize its postal system, further integrating into the global community. The decision reflected the government's intent to improve communication networks as part of broader modernization efforts during this period.

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Sports & Recreation

Foundation of Aris Thessaloniki Football Club

March 25th, 1914 110 years ago

Aris Thessaloniki, a prominent multi-sport club, was founded in Thessaloniki. Established on March 25, 1914, during a pivotal period for Greece, the club aimed to promote various sports and cultural activities within the region. The name 'Aris' pays homage to the Greek god of war, symbolizing bravery and competitiveness. This foundation not only marked the beginning of a legacy in sports but also fostered community engagement and youth development through athletic competitions and events.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Ludlow Massacre During Colorado Coalfield War

April 20th, 1914 110 years ago

Nineteen men, women, and children were killed during the Ludlow Massacre, which occurred as part of a strike by coal miners in Colorado. The miners, who were protesting poor working conditions and seeking better pay, had set up a tent colony in Ludlow. Tensions between the miners and the Colorado National Guard escalated, leading to the violent confrontation that claimed the lives of those who were peacefully protesting.

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