What Happened This Year 1929

Historical Events from This Year 1929

Politics & Government

King Alexander I Renames Kingdom to Yugoslavia

October 3rd, 1929 95 years ago

In a significant political shift, King Alexander I of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes officially renamed the nation to Yugoslavia. This change took place within the context of nation-building efforts and aimed at fostering a stronger national identity. The rebranding was part of broader reforms initiated by the Kingdom to create a unified Yugoslav state amidst ethnic diversities and tensions following World War I. This renaming was emblematic of the monarch's vision for a cohesive nation-state.

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Religion & Philosophy

Photius II Becomes Ecumenical Patriarch

October 7th, 1929 95 years ago

Photius II was elected as the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, succeeding his predecessor with the aim of addressing various issues facing the Orthodox Church. His election was seen as a pivotal moment for the church's unity and leadership as he brought a rich background in theology and ecclesiastical governance. The event took place in the Phanar district of Istanbul, where the Ecumenical Patriarchate is located. Photius II's role would include guiding the church through the complexities of a changing political and religious landscape in the early 20th century.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Judicial Committee Defines Women as Persons

October 18th, 1929 95 years ago

In a landmark ruling, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in Britain overruled a decision from the Supreme Court of Canada, declaring that women are indeed considered 'persons' under Canadian law. This decision was in response to the case initiated by the Famous Five, a group of women advocating for the inclusion of women in the legal definition of 'persons.' The ruling opened the door for women to serve in the Senate and other political offices, affirming their legal rights and roles in society.

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Economics & Industry

Market Crash Begins with Black Thursday

October 24th, 1929 95 years ago

On a day characterized by panic selling, the New York Stock Exchange experienced a significant drop in stock prices. Investors rushed to sell shares, fearing further declines after a series of smaller sell-offs earlier in the week. The trading volume soared as fear gripped the market, and financial institutions struggled to stabilize the situation. Black Thursday marked the beginning of what would culminate in the Great Depression, impacting countless lives and reshaping the financial landscape.

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Economics & Industry

Stock Market Crash Ends Bull Market Era

October 29th, 1929 95 years ago

The New York Stock Exchange experienced a massive crash on October 29, 1929, known as Black Tuesday, marking the end of the Great Bull Market of the 1920s. Panic ensued as stock prices plummeted, causing financial devastation for countless investors. The economic turmoil signaled the onset of the Great Depression, impacting both the U.S. economy and global markets. Key factors included rampant speculation, excessive borrowing, and a lack of regulatory oversight that had characterized the financial environment of the preceding decade.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Gwangju Student Protest for Independence

November 3rd, 1929 95 years ago

Students in Gwangju organized a protest against Japanese colonial rule, advocating for Korean independence and national identity. The movement sparked from rising discontent among the youth regarding oppressive policies and cultural assimilation imposed by Japan. Over a thousand students participated, marching through the streets of Gwangju, emphasizing their desire for freedom and self-determination. This gathering marked a significant moment in the struggle against colonial oppression in Korea.

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Arts & Culture

Museum of Modern Art Opens in NYC

November 7th, 1929 95 years ago

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) opened to the public in New York City, showcasing an array of modern artworks. This innovative museum aimed to promote a deeper understanding of contemporary culture through various forms of visual art. Initially located in a modest space at 11 West 53rd Street, the collection featured paintings, sculptures, photography, and design objects that highlighted the movements of modern art. This foundational event was part of the broader cultural shift in America towards appreciating and collecting modern art.

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Natural Disasters

Grand Banks Submarine Earthquake and Tsunami

November 18th, 1929 95 years ago

A Richter magnitude 7.2 submarine earthquake occurred off the south coast of Newfoundland in the Atlantic Ocean, devastating many communities. Triggered by the earthquake, a tsunami struck the Burin Peninsula, destroying infrastructure and homes. The underwater seismic event also severed 12 telegraph cables, significantly disrupting communications across the Atlantic. This disaster highlighted the vulnerability of coastal settlements to natural phenomena.

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Politics & Government

Formation of the Finnish Lapua Movement

November 24th, 1929 95 years ago

Led by Vihtori Kosola, former White Guard members disrupted a communist occasion at the Workers' House in Lapua, Finland. This marked the official beginning of the Lapua Movement, which aimed to curb leftist movements and promote nationalist ideologies. The incident showcased the growing tensions between right-wing groups and the communist left in interwar Finland, highlighting the political divisions of the time.

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