What Happened This Year 1920

Historical Events from This Year 1920

Accidents & Tragedies

Savoia Flying Boats Crash in Alps

September 7th, 1920 104 years ago

Two Savoia flying boats on a delivery flight to Finland crashed in the Swiss Alps, resulting in the deaths of both crews. The aircraft were part of a larger contract between Italy and Finland, where they were intended to enhance the Finnish Air Force. The crash occurred during the mountainous route, which posed significant challenges for early aviation.

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Crime & Law

Explosion Outside J. P. Morgan Building

September 16th, 1920 104 years ago

A bomb exploded in a horse-drawn wagon in front of the J. P. Morgan building in New York City, killing 38 individuals and injuring around 400 others. The explosion occurred at noon, creating chaos in the densely populated area. The wagon had been parked on Wall Street, and investigators believed it was intentionally placed there as part of a larger act of violence. The motives behind the bombing were speculated to be rooted in various radical movements of the time, including anarchism, and it marked a significant moment in the history of domestic terrorism in the United States.

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Military & Warfare

Black and Tans Attack Balbriggan

September 20th, 1920 104 years ago

In retaliation for an IRA assassination, British forces known as the Black and Tans carried out a devastating attack on the town of Balbriggan. The assault included the burning of multiple buildings and resulted in the deaths of two local men, which ignited outrage among the population. This incident marked a significant escalation in the violence between British forces and Irish nationalists during the Irish War of Independence.

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Natural Disasters

Hurricane Displaces Thousands and Causes Damage

September 23rd, 1920 104 years ago

A hurricane originally formed in Louisiana dissipated over Kansas, leading to the evacuation of about 4,500 residents. The storm, which caused around $1.45 million in damages, demonstrated the unpredictable path of tropical storms and their impacts on inland areas. The unusual trajectory caught many by surprise as communities prepared for severe weather.

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Politics & Government

Truce Between Ukrainian Soviet and Makhnovshchina

September 29th, 1920 104 years ago

The Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic and the Makhnovshchina factions reached a truce aimed at reducing hostilities in Ukraine. At a time when Ukraine was embroiled in conflicts following World War I, this agreement was significant in recognizing the autonomy of the Makhnovshchina, a group led by anarchist Nestor Makhno. The agreement sought to stabilize the region and facilitate cooperation against common enemies, particularly the White Army and foreign interventions.

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Military & Warfare

Frunze Orders Ceasefire in Ukrainian Conflict

October 2nd, 1920 104 years ago

Mikhail Frunze, a key military leader for the Bolsheviks, issued an order to the Red Army to halt all military operations against the Revolutionary Insurgent Army of Ukraine. This decision stemmed from ongoing unrest and the evolving dynamics of civil strife in Ukraine during the Ukrainian War of Independence. The cessation of hostilities was aimed at reassessing the situation and exploring diplomatic resolutions, while the ongoing conflict affected civilian populations throughout the region.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Foundation of the Mannerheim League for Child Welfare

October 4th, 1920 104 years ago

The Mannerheim League for Child Welfare was established by Sophie Mannerheim, focusing on improving the welfare of children in Finland. This non-governmental organization aimed to address various issues affecting children and to promote their health and education. Through its initiatives, the League sought to raise awareness about the plight of children following the tumultuous years of the Finnish Civil War. Sophie's leadership played a crucial role in the formation of this organization, marking a significant step towards better child welfare policies in Finland.

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Politics & Government

Starobilsk Agreement Signed for Cooperation

October 6th, 1920 104 years ago

Representatives from the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic and the Makhnovshchina met to sign the Starobilsk Agreement, establishing an alliance for mutual support during ongoing military conflicts. This agreement aimed to unify efforts in fighting against common enemies, ensuring cooperation between the two factions for the duration of their struggle. The meeting took place in Starobilsk, a strategic location during the Ukrainian War of Independence, facilitating discussions on military aid and political alignment.

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Politics & Government

Carinthian Plebiscite Affirms Austrian Territory

October 10th, 1920 104 years ago

The Carinthian plebiscite determined that a significant majority of the Duchy of Carinthia should remain part of Austria. Conducted under the oversight of the League of Nations, this vote allowed residents to express their national allegiance following World War I and the subsequent Treaty of Saint-Germain. The plebiscite's outcome was crucial for shaping the post-war national landscape of Central Europe.

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