What Happened This Year 1919

Historical Events from This Year 1919

Politics & Government

Weimar Constitution Signed into Law

August 11th, 1919 105 years ago

The Weimar Constitution came into effect as a democratic framework for Germany following World War I. It established a parliamentary republic, enhancing civil liberties and integrating a system of proportional representation. Signed in Weimar, Germany, it aimed to stabilize the nation after the turmoil of the war and the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II. The constitution represented a significant shift in German governance and sought to address the political instability that had plagued the nation.

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Politics & Government

Atatürk Gathers Congress in Sivas

September 4th, 1919 105 years ago

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk convened a congress in Sivas to discuss the political situation and future of Anatolia and Thrace following World War I. This important meeting included representatives from various national organizations, all seeking to address the growing concerns over territorial integrity and sovereignty. The congress aimed to establish a unified response against foreign intervention and to reinforce the Turkish national movement.

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Politics & Government

Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye Signed

September 10th, 1919 105 years ago

The Republic of German-Austria signed the Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, which resulted in significant territorial cessions to Italy, Yugoslavia, and Czechoslovakia. Signed on September 10, 1919, in France, this agreement aimed to formalize the end of hostilities and outline the new borders following the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire after World War I. It marked a pivotal moment in reshaping Central Europe.

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Military & Warfare

US Marines Conduct Landing in Honduras

September 11th, 1919 105 years ago

In September 1919, U.S. Marines landed in Honduras during a period marked by political instability in the region. The United States sought to stabilize the country as it grappled with internal strife and external influences. The Marines secured strategic locations to protect American interests and prevent further escalation of conflict. This military action was part of a larger pattern of U.S. interventions in Central America throughout the early 20th century.

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Sports & Recreation

Fritz Pollard Joins the Akron Pros

September 18th, 1919 105 years ago

Fritz Pollard made history by becoming the first African American player to compete in professional football for a major team, the Akron Pros. Pollard’s talent as a halfback quickly garnered attention, helping to pave the way for future generations of African American athletes in the sport. The pros played in the early days of what would eventually become the National Football League, showcasing a blend of athleticism and strategy in an era where racial barriers were still prevalent in sports. Pollard's role on the team was significant, not only for his skill set but also for the representation of African Americans in a previously segregated league.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

1919 Steel Strike Across the United States

September 22nd, 1919 105 years ago

A massive steel strike began in Pennsylvania, initiated by the Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers. The strike quickly spread across the nation as frustrated workers sought better pay, improved working conditions, and recognition of their union. The discontent stemmed from inflation and labor exploitation, following World War I, as steel workers demanded fair treatment and working rights. This labor action engulfed multiple steel mills throughout the industrial heartland, revealing the deep tensions between labor and management in the post-war economy.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Race Riots Erupt in Omaha, Nebraska

September 28th, 1919 105 years ago

A significant race riot broke out in Omaha, Nebraska following the arrest of a Black man named Will Brown who was accused of assaulting a white woman. A mob formed to demand Brown’s lynching after rumors spread of his guilt. Tensions escalated, leading to violence as white citizens attacked the Black community. The riot resulted in numerous deaths and widespread property destruction, marking a stark moment of racial unrest in the city.

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Politics & Government

Woodrow Wilson suffers catastrophic stroke

October 2nd, 1919 105 years ago

U.S. President Woodrow Wilson experienced a catastrophic stroke at the White House, which left him physically and mentally incapacitated. This incident occurred a mere seven days after he had delivered a speech in Pueblo, Colorado, where he had shown signs of physical distress. The stroke led to a significant decline in his health and effectively ended his active participation in the presidency, raising concerns about the future of his administration amidst ongoing post-war challenges.

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Sports & Recreation

Adolfo Luque Makes World Series History

October 3rd, 1919 105 years ago

Adolfo Luque, pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds, became the first Latin American player to appear in a World Series, showcasing a significant milestone in baseball history. The game marked a turning point, highlighting the increasing inclusion of diverse players in Major League Baseball. Luque's participation not only demonstrated his talent but also paved the way for future generations of Latin American players. As the Reds faced the Chicago White Sox in the 1919 World Series, Luque's performance was remarkable, earning attention and respect from fans and players alike.

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