What Happened This Year 1917
Historical Events from This Year 1917
General Edmund Allenby Marches into Jerusalem
British General Edmund Allenby entered Jerusalem on foot, declaring martial law following the city’s capture during World War I. The event marked a significant moment in the British campaign in the Middle East, with Allenby’s choice to walk into the city symbolizing respect for its religious significance. The fall of Jerusalem was a critical strategic achievement in the campaign against the Ottoman Empire, showcasing not just military success, but also Allenby’s commitment to a respectful approach towards the city's diverse communities.
Continue ReadingFather Edward J. Flanagan Establishes Boys Town
Father Edward J. Flanagan founded Boys Town as a farm village dedicated to rehabilitating wayward boys. He aimed to provide a safe, nurturing environment away from the challenges of urban life, particularly for those from troubled backgrounds. Located on a farm in Omaha, Nebraska, Boys Town set the groundwork for a new approach to youth care, focusing on education, discipline, and love. The village became a beacon of hope for many boys who faced instability in their lives.
Continue ReadingCongress Passes the Eighteenth Amendment Resolution
The United States Congress passed a resolution proposing the Eighteenth Amendment, which would establish Prohibition across the nation. This resolution aimed to ban the manufacture, sale, and transportation of intoxicating liquors, reflecting the increased influence of the temperance movement in America. The push for Prohibition gained momentum during the early 20th century, driven by social reformers and religious groups advocating for a sober society.
Continue ReadingCheka Established as Soviet Secret Police
In December 1917, the All-Russian Extraordinary Commission for Combating Counter-Revolution and Sabotage, known as Cheka, was founded as the first Soviet secret police agency. Established by Lenin and the Bolshevik government in response to perceived threats during the Russian Civil War, its primary aim was to suppress opposition and maintain state security. Operating initially in Petrograd and later expanding nationwide, Cheka quickly became notorious for its severe measures against political dissenters, enforcing the Bolsheviks' revolutionary ideology. This establishment marked the beginning of a state apparatus dedicated to enforcing loyalty to Soviet authority.
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