What Happened This Year 1917

Historical Events from This Year 1917

Politics & Government

Immigration Act of 1917 Passed Against Veto

February 5th, 1917 108 years ago

The Congress of the United States passed the Immigration Act of 1917, overriding President Woodrow Wilson's veto. This legislation introduced strict immigration quotas, aimed particularly at certain groups, and significantly impacted immigration policies. Advocates argued that these measures were necessary for national security and social welfare. The act also established the so-called 'barred zone,' which excluded immigrants from specific Asian countries and other regions deemed undesirable.

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Politics & Government

Mexico Adopts New Constitution, Establishing Republic

February 5th, 1917 108 years ago

The Constitution of Mexico is adopted, marking a significant shift towards a structured federal republic. This notable document establishes the separation of powers into independent branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. It was drafted during a turbulent period following the Mexican Revolution, aimed at reforming the nation’s governance landscape. The assembly took place in Querétaro, where representatives from diverse sectors convened to address the pressing issues faced by the country, ensuring democratic ideals were embedded in the framework of its governance.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

First Demonstrations Spark February Revolution

February 23rd, 1917 108 years ago

In Saint Petersburg, large-scale protests erupted as workers and soldiers clashed with police forces due to food shortages and discontent with the government. This uprising marked the beginning of a wave of demonstrations that would ultimately lead to the February Revolution, setting in motion the events that led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II. The atmosphere was charged with anger and desperation as citizens demanded change, igniting a series of escalating confrontations throughout the city.

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Politics & Government

Zimmermann Telegram Received by U.S. Ambassador

February 24th, 1917 108 years ago

Walter Hines Page, the U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom, receives the Zimmermann Telegram from Germany. The Telegram proposes that if Mexico declares war on the United States, Germany would support Mexico in reclaiming territories lost in the Mexican-American War, specifically New Mexico, Texas, and Arizona. This bold offer, revealing Germany's attempt to instigate conflict between Mexico and the U.S., significantly influences American public opinion regarding involvement in World War I.

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Politics & Government

Zimmermann Telegram Sparks U.S. Public Outcry

March 1st, 1917 108 years ago

The Zimmermann Telegram, sent by German Foreign Minister Arthur Zimmermann to Mexico, proposed a military alliance against the United States. Its unencrypted text was released by the U.S. government, leading to widespread publication in American newspapers. This revelation fueled anti-German sentiment and increased calls for U.S. involvement in World War I.

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Politics & Government

Puerto Ricans Granted U.S. Citizenship

March 2nd, 1917 108 years ago

The Jones–Shafroth Act was signed into law, granting United States citizenship to Puerto Ricans. This legislative action established important civil rights for the population of Puerto Rico, allowing them to participate more fully in the political and social spheres of American life. The act also amended previous territorial laws and allowed for greater self-governance in Puerto Rico. President Woodrow Wilson endorsed the Jones–Shafroth Act, highlighting the need to recognize the contributions of Puerto Ricans to the United States.

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Politics & Government

Jeannette Rankin Takes Office as First Woman in Congress

March 4th, 1917 108 years ago

Jeannette Rankin, a Republican from Montana, becomes the first woman elected to the United States Congress. She took her seat in the House of Representatives after winning a special election. Rankin’s election reflects the changing attitudes toward women's participation in politics and their growing influence, particularly in the western states where women secured voting rights earlier.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Women's Day Protests Ignite February Revolution

March 8th, 1917 108 years ago

On this significant day, women in Petrograd gathered to protest against food shortages and poor working conditions. The demonstrations were part of the International Women's Day celebrations, aligning with a broader discontent with the government. As women marched through the streets, their demands for equality and better living conditions resonated with many workers, leading to a large-scale uprising. This sparked widespread riots and strikes, marking a crucial point in the early events of the February Revolution in Russia.

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Politics & Government

Senate Adopts Cloture Rule to Limit Filibusters

March 8th, 1917 108 years ago

The United States Senate voted to adopt the cloture rule, officially limiting the use of filibusters in legislative procedures. This pivotal decision arose from frustrations over prolonged debates that stalled the Senate's business. Senators aimed to expedite legislative processes, particularly as the nation faced pressing issues, including the impending involvement in World War I. The cloture rule permitted a two-thirds majority to bring debate to a close, thereby enabling timely decision-making in the Senate chamber. The change marked a significant shift in the Senate’s operational rules.

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