What Happened This Year 1920
Historical Events from This Year 1920
Hungary's Territory and Population Dramatically Reduced
The Treaty of Trianon was signed in Paris, resulting in Hungary losing 71% of its territory and 63% of its population. The treaty was one of the peace agreements that ended World War I, reshaping the borders of several nations in Eastern Europe. This significant territorial loss was a result of Hungary's alignment with the Central Powers during the war. The repercussions of this agreement led to considerable political and economic instability in Hungary.
Continue ReadingThe Birth of the 'Smoke-Filled Room' Phrase
During the Republican National Convention in Chicago, party leaders convened at the Blackstone Hotel to negotiate and eventually select their presidential candidate for the upcoming election. This gathering marked a significant moment in political discourse, as it introduced the term 'smoke-filled room' to describe behind-the-scenes political decision-making. The phrase captured the secretive nature of political negotiations at the time, transforming how future political strategies would be perceived and discussed.
Continue ReadingTransfer of Northern Schleswig to Denmark
Northern Schleswig was transferred from Germany to Denmark following a series of plebiscites. The plebiscites, held under the supervision of the League of Nations, aimed to determine the national identity of the inhabitants of largely German-speaking areas after World War I. The vote favored Danish sovereignty, reflecting the desire of many residents to join Denmark, leading to the official transfer of territory.
Continue ReadingSectarian Violence Erupts in Derry
In June 1920, Derry witnessed significant sectarian violence that initiated a week filled with clashes between nationalists and unionists. The city was engulfed in chaos as tensions flared over political allegiance and religious identity. The violence resulted in numerous injuries and property damage, reflecting the deep-seated divisions within the community. This week marked a pivotal moment in the lead-up to greater conflict in Northern Ireland, setting the stage for a turbulent period in its history.
Continue ReadingArthur Meighen Takes Office as Prime Minister
Arthur Meighen became the Prime Minister of Canada, succeeding William Lyon Mackenzie King as leader of the Conservative Party. His rise to power followed a notable political evolution and was marked by his commitment to conservative ideals and national unity. Meighen's immediate challenge was to address the post-World War I economic conditions and labor unrest in Canada, which were critical at the time. His leadership style and policies would define his term and influence Canadian politics moving forward.
Continue ReadingEast Prussian Plebiscite Affirms German Allegiance
In July 1920, a plebiscite was held in East Prussia where the local populace voted on whether to remain part of Weimar Germany or join the newly reformed Poland. The majority opted to stay with Germany, reflecting the complex national identities in the region. This decision was critical in shaping the post-World War I borders in Europe, as similar plebiscites occurred elsewhere.
Continue ReadingLithuania Gains Recognition from Soviet Russia
The Soviet–Lithuanian Peace Treaty marked a significant turning point in Baltic relations. Signed in 1920, it recognized Lithuania's independence following World War I and the subsequent territorial changes in Eastern Europe. Negotiated in the city of Minsk, this treaty was part of the efforts by Soviet Russia to consolidate its borders and establish diplomatic relations with neighboring states. It ensured that Lithuania could form its government autonomously, free from Soviet control, which was crucial for the country's sovereignty and identity during the turbulent interwar years.
Continue ReadingEstablishment of Silesian Voivodeship in Poland
The Parliament of Poland established the Silesian Voivodeship as a political administrative unit prior to the Polish-German plebiscite. This decision aimed to facilitate the organization of local governance as tensions flared over territorial disputes in Upper Silesia. The plebiscite, which was set to determine the region's national affiliation, created both political and social dynamics that were crucial in shaping the region's future.
Continue ReadingGreek Army Controls Silivri After Peace Award
The Greek Army took control of Silivri following the decision by the Paris Peace Conference to award the city to Greece. This acquisition represented an effort to expand Greek territory in the aftermath of World War I. However, by 1923, Greece would effectively lose control over Silivri to the Turkish forces, marking a significant shift in regional power dynamics.
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