What Happened This Year 1920

Historical Events from This Year 1920

Sports & Recreation

First Game of Finnish Pesäpallo at Kaisaniemi Park

November 14th, 1920 104 years ago

Pesäpallo, known as the Finnish version of baseball, was played for the first time at Kaisaniemi Park in Helsinki. Developed by Lauri Pihkala, the game showcased its unique rules and style, distinct yet reminiscent of its American counterpart, baseball. The event marked a significant cultural addition to Finland’s recreation landscape. The match attracted attention as it was a new sport aiming to reflect Finnish values and identity, intertwining elements of tradition and modernity.

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Politics & Government

First Assembly of the League of Nations Convened

November 15th, 1920 104 years ago

In Geneva, Switzerland, representatives from 41 nations gathered for the inaugural assembly of the League of Nations. This assembly marked a significant step in international diplomacy, aiming to promote peace and cooperation among nations after the devastation of World War I. Delegates discussed various issues, including disarmament and preventing future conflicts, establishing protocols for future meetings and decisions.

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Politics & Government

Establishment of the Free City of Danzig

November 15th, 1920 104 years ago

The Free City of Danzig was established as a semi-autonomous region, intended to provide a compromise solution for the city of Danzig following World War I. This status was formalized by the Treaty of Versailles, aiming to ensure access to the Baltic Sea for Poland while preserving Danzig's German-speaking majority. The League of Nations oversaw the city, which became a unique political entity in Europe.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Foundation of Qantas Airlines

November 16th, 1920 104 years ago

Qantas was founded as Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services Limited in 1920. Founded by Paul McGinness and a group of investors, the airline commenced operations in Queensland and Northern Territory, aiming to connect remote areas and promote air travel in Australia. Qantas' first flight was from Charleville to Cloncurry, marking the beginning of Australia's national airline service.

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Military & Warfare

Bloody Sunday: IRA Assassination and Croke Park Shooting

November 21st, 1920 104 years ago

A violent confrontation occurred in Dublin when the Irish Republican Army (IRA) targeted British intelligence agents, resulting in a covert assassination during the early hours. The day turned tragic as British forces retaliated later by opening fire on civilians attending a Gaelic football match at Croke Park, leading to numerous casualties. The incident highlighted the increasing tensions and brutal tactics used in the Irish War of Independence, intensifying the conflict between Irish republicans and British authorities.

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Military & Warfare

Red Army's Surprise Attack on Makhnovshchina

November 26th, 1920 104 years ago

The Red Army launched a surprise offensive against the Makhnovist forces in southeastern Ukraine, aiming to eliminate their stronghold and counter their anarchist ideology. This attack involved large troop movements and strategic positioning, targeting the regions controlled by Nestor Makhno and his followers. The conflict was part of the broader struggle for control over Ukraine during the post-World War I chaos, where multiple factions vied for dominance in the region.

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Military & Warfare

IRA Ambush at Kilmichael

November 28th, 1920 104 years ago

The Irish Republican Army executed an ambush against a convoy of British Auxiliaries in Kilmichael, County Cork, resulting in the deaths of seventeen personnel. The operation, led by the IRA's Tom Barry, was a significant and coordinated attack that showcased the effectiveness of guerrilla tactics against conventional forces. The ambush occurred during the Irish War of Independence, underscoring the intense conflict between Irish republicans and British authorities over Irish sovereignty.

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Politics & Government

Formation of FIDAC in Paris, France

November 28th, 1920 104 years ago

Founded in Paris, FIDAC unites war veterans' groups globally. Its objective is to advocate for veterans' rights and provide mutual support among the organizations of various nations. The inaugural meeting attracted representatives from numerous countries, emphasizing the need for solidarity and cooperation amongst veterans post-World War I.

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Politics & Government

Treaty of Alexandropol Concluded

December 3rd, 1920 104 years ago

After a month of conflict in the Turkish–Armenian War, the Treaty of Alexandropol was concluded between the Republic of Turkey and the First Republic of Armenia. Signed in Alexandropol, the treaty established the terms of peace, significantly impacting the territorial boundaries and sovereignty of Armenia. The agreement included provisions for the region of Eastern Anatolia, along with reparations and military conditions. This treaty marked a crucial turning point in the post-World War I landscape in the region.

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