What Happened This Year 1915
Historical Events from This Year 1915
Start of the McMahon–Hussein Correspondence
The McMahon–Hussein Correspondence began a series of letters between Hussein bin Ali, Sharif of Mecca, and British High Commissioner Henry McMahon. This communication aimed to negotiate support for an Arab revolt against Ottoman control during World War I, promoting Arab independence in exchange for assistance from Britain. Significantly, Hussein sought to unite Arab nations against the Ottoman Empire, which was then aligned with Germany and Austria-Hungary. The negotiations laid the groundwork for future geopolitical changes in the Middle East.
Continue ReadingHenry James Becomes a British Citizen
Henry James, the renowned American author, became a British citizen to express his solidarity with the United Kingdom during World War I. This significant decision reflected his deep commitment to Britain, where he had resided for many years. James had witnessed the cultural and social upheaval caused by the war, prompting him to take this step as a form of support for the nation he considered home. His new citizenship was a symbolic act of allegiance amid the challenges of a global conflict.
Continue ReadingFirst Order of the Arrow Ceremony Held
At Treasure Island on the Delaware River, the first Order of the Arrow ceremony was conducted, marking the establishment of the Order of the Arrow. This organization was created to honor American Boy Scouts who exemplified the Scout Oath and Law through their outstanding character and service. The ceremony highlighted the ideals of brotherhood, cheerfulness, and service to others, setting a foundation for the Order's future activities and traditions.
Continue ReadingSS Eastland Capsizes in Chicago River
The SS Eastland, a passenger ship, capsized while moored at its dock in the Chicago River, leading to the deaths of 844 individuals, making it the largest single-shipwreck disaster in Great Lakes history. The ship was preparing for an excursion organized by the Western Electric Company when it rolled over due to stability issues, causing a chaotic scene as passengers attempted to escape the flooding vessel.
Continue ReadingLanoe Hawker Earns the Victoria Cross
Captain Lanoe Hawker was awarded the Victoria Cross for his extraordinary bravery and skill in aerial combat during World War I. Serving in the Royal Flying Corps, he became the first British pursuit aviator to receive this prestigious honor, recognizing his valor in a series of engagements against enemy aircraft in the skies over France. His actions not only showcased his personal courage but also represented the evolving role of aviation in warfare as crucial for success in the trenches.
Continue ReadingUnited States Occupies Haiti for 19 Years
The United States initiated an occupation of Haiti in 1915 following a period of political instability and violence in the Caribbean nation. This intervention was largely motivated by concerns over American investments in the region and the desire to restore order after the assassination of Haitian President Vilbrun Guillaume Sam. U.S. Marines landed in Port-au-Prince, marking the beginning of a military presence that would last nearly two decades, fundamentally affecting Haitian political life and governance.
Continue ReadingPatrick Pearse's O'Donovan Rossa Speech
Patrick Pearse delivered a powerful oration at the funeral of Jeremiah O'Donovan Rossa in Dublin, famously declaring, 'Ireland unfree shall never be at peace.' This poignant statement resonated with the Irish nationalist movement, emphasizing the struggle for independence. The funeral took place at Glasnevin Cemetery, drawing thousands of attendees, including prominent nationalists. Pearse saw O'Donovan Rossa as a martyr for Ireland's cause, and his speech captured the growing desire for political change and unity among nationalists in the face of British rule.
Continue ReadingGerman 12th Army Occupies Warsaw
During the Gorlice–Tarnów Offensive, the German 12th Army captured Warsaw. This significant military maneuver was part of a broader strategy to push Russian forces from occupied territories in Poland. The offensive was marked by coordinated assaults and innovative tactics, leading to rapid advances. The occupation of Warsaw signified a critical shift in the Eastern Front of World War I, demonstrating the effectiveness of the German military’s planning and execution.
Continue ReadingAllied Diversionary Attack at Sari Bair
The Allies launched a diversionary attack on Sari Bair, coordinating it with a significant landing of reinforcements at Suvla Bay. This operation aimed to divert Ottoman attention and resources from the ongoing Anzac forces' campaign. The Sari Bair offensive involved fierce fighting as Allied troops sought to gain a strategic foothold in the region, enhancing their position in the Gallipoli Campaign.
Continue Reading