What Happened This Year 1920

Historical Events from This Year 1920

Military & Warfare

British Forces Attack Cork in Retaliation

December 11th, 1920 104 years ago

Following an ambush by the Irish Republican Army, British forces unleashed violence in Cork city, burning and looting several buildings. Civilians became victims of brutality, with reports of beatings, shootings, and looting by British troops, leading to a climate of fear and anger in the area. The attack was a direct response to the IRA's increasing military operations against British rule in Ireland.

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Natural Disasters

Devastating Haiyuan Earthquake in Gansu Province

December 16th, 1920 104 years ago

On December 16, 1920, an earthquake with a magnitude of 8.5Mw struck the Haiyuan region in Gansu Province, China. This natural disaster caused significant destruction and loss of life, with estimates suggesting around 200,000 fatalities. The quake was felt in surrounding provinces and caused landslides and infrastructure damage. Rescue efforts were hampered due to the difficult terrain and the magnitude of the destruction, making recovery efforts challenging for the local population.

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Politics & Government

Constantine I's Restoration to the Throne

December 19th, 1920 104 years ago

King Constantine I was restored as King of the Hellenes after the plebiscite held following the death of his son Alexander, who died as a result of a monkey bite. The restoration came after a period of political turmoil following World War I, during which King Constantine had previously abdicated. The plebiscite reflected public support for the king's return as tensions still brewed within Greece.

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Economics & Industry

Adoption of the GOELRO Economic Plan

December 22nd, 1920 104 years ago

The GOELRO economic development plan was approved by the 8th Congress of Soviets of the Russian SFSR in a pivotal move aimed at rebuilding the war-torn economy of Soviet Russia. Spearheaded by figures such as Leon Trotsky and Gleb Krzhizhanovsky, it proposed a comprehensive strategy for the electrification and industrialization of the nation. The plan sought to harness and integrate various sectors of the economy to enhance productivity, improve living standards, and lay the foundation for a planned economy, a vision that appealed to the Bolshevik leadership.

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