What Happened This Year 1916

Historical Events from This Year 1916 (View all 86)

Military & Warfare

Gallipoli Campaign Ends with Ottoman Victory

January 9th, 1916 109 years ago

The Battle of Gallipoli concluded with the evacuation of the last Allied forces, marking a significant victory for the Ottoman Empire. This campaign, waged during World War I, was aimed at securing a sea route to Russia and opening a new front against the Central Powers. The Allies, comprising primarily British and ANZAC troops, failed to gain crucial ground despite months of fighting. The withdrawal was necessitated by heavy losses and logistical challenges.

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Military & Warfare

Imperial Russia Launches the Erzurum Offensive

January 10th, 1916 109 years ago

In a strategic move during World War I, Imperial Russia commenced the Erzurum Offensive against the Ottoman Empire's Third Army. Launched from Eastern Anatolia, the offensive aimed to seize control of key territories and weaken the Ottoman defensive lines. Notably, this campaign was part of a broader Russian effort to relieve pressure on its allies and to reclaim lost lands in the Caucasus region. The offensive would lead to significant territorial gains for the Russian military, marking a turning point in the Caucasus front of the conflict.

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Military & Warfare

First German Aviators Awarded Pour le Mérite

January 12th, 1916 109 years ago

Oswald Boelcke and Max Immelmann became the first German aviators to receive the Pour le Mérite for their combat achievements. Both pilots had demonstrated exceptional skill in aerial combat, each achieving eight confirmed victories against Allied aircraft. Their accomplishments not only set new standards in military aviation but also elevated the status of the German Luftwaffe during World War I. The award was emblematic of bravery and success, marking a significant moment in the history of aerial warfare.

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Politics & Government

Supreme Court Upholds Federal Income Tax

January 24th, 1916 109 years ago

The Supreme Court ruled in Brushaber v. Union Pacific Railroad Co. that the federal income tax imposed by the Income Tax Act of 1913 was constitutional. This case arose when Charles Brushaber, a stockholder in Union Pacific, challenged the constitutionality of the income tax, asserting it was a direct tax not apportioned according to the Constitution's requirements. In a decisive ruling, the Court affirmed the legality of the tax, clarifying federal taxing powers.

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Politics & Government

British Government Enacts the Military Service Act

January 27th, 1916 109 years ago

The British government enacted the Military Service Act, introducing conscription. This law required single men aged 18 to 41 to enlist for military service, aiming to bolster troop numbers for World War I. The decision followed significant losses and shortcomings in voluntary enlistments. This marked a pivotal shift in military policy amidst the ongoing war crisis, affecting thousands of individuals across the country.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Manitoba Grants Women Voting Rights

January 28th, 1916 109 years ago

In Manitoba, women gained the right to vote and run for office in provincial elections, representing a significant advancement in women's rights in Canada. This landmark decision allowed women to influence political landscapes actively, although it still excluded women of Indigenous and Asian heritage, highlighting ongoing inequalities. The move indicated a shift toward greater gender equality in the political realm.

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Born in 1916 (View all 397)

Fred Haas

Golf champion and amateur golfer
Born
January 3rd, 1916 109 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2004 21 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent amateur golfer, participated in major tournaments during the mid-20th century. Achieved significant success in the United States Golf Association (USGA) championships. Won the 1938 U.S. Amateur Championship and later represented the United States in the Walker Cup. Contributed to golf through leadership roles in various organizations, promoting the sport and mentoring younger players.

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Betty Furness

Television journalist and actress
Born
January 3rd, 1916 109 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1994 31 years ago — 78 years old

Began acting career in the 1930s, appearing in films such as 'The Green Years' and 'The Courtship of Eddie's Father'. Transitioned to television in the 1950s, gaining prominence as a consumer advocate on shows like 'Consumer Reports'. Served as a reporter covering consumer-related topics and hosted segments that educated viewers on various issues. Worked with various organizations to raise awareness about consumer rights and protection.

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Robert Parrish

Actor and Director of 'The King and I'
Born
January 4th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 79 years old

An American actor and director, contributed significantly to film and theater. Developed a career that included both acting and directing. Frequently collaborated with prominent producers and studios during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for performances and later transitioned into directing, helming various projects. Made a mark in the industry with a knack for bringing stories to life through engaging performances and thoughtful direction.

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Park Mok-wol

Korean poet and influential academic
Born
January 6th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1978 47 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1916, this individual contributed significantly to Korean literature through poetry and academic work. Engaged in both teaching and writing, published several notable poetry collections that explored themes of nature and identity. Participated in various literary movements and was influential in shaping modern Korean poetry.

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Babe Pratt

Ice hockey player and Hall of Famer
Born
January 7th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 72 years old

Played professional ice hockey in the NHL from 1935 to 1948. Provided strong defensive skills and offensive contributions while playing for the New York Rangers and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Won the Hart Memorial Trophy in 1944 as the NHL's most valuable player. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1966.

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Eldzier Cortor

Painter and muralist of African heritage
Born
January 10th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 99 years old

Significant contributions to American art made through a unique style blending figurative and abstract elements. Recognized for work addressing themes of race and identity. Participated in various exhibitions, with notable works reflecting African American experiences. Influenced the art scene via teaching and mentoring future artists. Held teaching positions at institutions including the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

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People Who Died in 1916 (View all 103)

Grenville M. Dodge

General and politician in the U.S.
Born
1831 194 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1916 109 years ago — 85 years old

Served as a Union general during the Civil War. Played a significant role in major battles such as the Battle of Shiloh and the Battle of Memphis. After the war, engaged in railroad construction and became a prominent figure in the development of the Transcontinental Railroad. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Iowa, contributing to legislative efforts during his term. Worked as an engineer and was involved in various infrastructure projects throughout the western United States.

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Rembrandt Bugatti

Italian sculptor of animal figures
Born
October 16th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1916 109 years ago — 31 years old

An influential sculptor specializing in animal figures, created bronze sculptures that captured the intricate details of various animals. Worked in a realistic style that portrayed both movement and emotion. Gained recognition in the early 20th century and became associated with the Art Nouveau movement. His sculptures were featured in numerous exhibitions, garnering admiration from art collectors and critics alike. Tragically passed away at a young age, leaving behind a significant legacy in the world of sculpture.

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Ada Rehan

Irish-American actress and stage star
Born
1860 165 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1916 109 years ago — 56 years old

Celebrated for contributions to American theatre, a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Rehan became well-recognized for performances with the famous actor-manager John Drew's company. Gained significant acclaim for the role of 'Peggy' in 'The Taming of the Shrew' and in productions such as 'The Merchant of Venice' and 'The Comedy of Errors'. Her performances were characterized by strong presence and emotional depth, contributing to the popularity of the works presented on stage during that era. Continued to perform until shortly before her death in 1916, leaving behind a legacy in American theatrical history.

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Georgios Theotokis

Greek politician, 80th Prime Minister
Born
1844 181 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1916 109 years ago — 72 years old

Served as the 80th Prime Minister of Greece from 1899 to 1901. Played a significant role in various political movements and reforms during his tenure. Focused on modernization and strengthening the national infrastructure. Contributed to legislative changes that aimed at improving the legal framework of the country.

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Victoriano Huerta

Mexican military officer and president
Born
December 22nd, 1850 174 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1916 109 years ago — 65 years old

Served as a military officer before becoming president of Mexico in 1913. Assumed the presidency after orchestrating a coup against President Francisco I. Madero. His administration faced opposition from revolutionary leaders, leading to a period of unrest and conflict. Resigned in 1914 and went into exile in the United States. Died in 1916.

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Modest Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Russian playwright and translator
Born
1850 175 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1916 109 years ago — 66 years old

A playwright and translator who contributed to the Russian literary scene. Tchaikovsky wrote notable works that include plays and translated works of significant literary figures. His efforts in theater and literature expanded the accessibility of various playwrights and authors to Russian audiences. Tchaikovsky also engaged in collaborations with his brother, who was a prominent composer, enhancing the cultural fabric of the time.

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