What Happened This Year 1937

Historical Events from This Year 1937

Science & Technology

First jet engine ground-tested by Frank Whittle

April 12th, 1937 87 years ago

Sir Frank Whittle successfully ground-tested the world's first jet engine designed for aircraft at Rugby, England. This pivotal moment in aviation history demonstrated the feasibility of jet propulsion, marking a significant step towards revolutionizing flight. Whittle's design aimed to overcome the limitations of piston engines, showcasing a novel method for propelling aircraft with increased efficiency and speed. His innovative approach laid the groundwork for the future development of jet-powered aircraft, altering the landscape of aviation forever.

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Military & Warfare

Guernica Bombing by Nazi Germany and Italy

April 26th, 1937 87 years ago

The town of Guernica, Spain, was subjected to devastating aerial bombardment by the German Condor Legion and the Italian Aviazione Legionaria during the Spanish Civil War. This coordinated attack occurred in support of Francisco Franco’s Nationalist forces against the Republic. Over several hours, the attack led to significant destruction of the town's infrastructure and a high civilian death toll. The bombing has since been immortalized in Pablo Picasso's famous mural, which depicts the horrors of war and has become a symbol of anti-war sentiment. The raid aimed to demoralize the Republican faction, demonstrating the potency of aerial warfare in modern conflicts.

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Health & Medicine

Max Theiler Creates Yellow Fever Vaccine

April 28th, 1937 87 years ago

Max Theiler, a South African medical researcher, successfully develops the yellow fever vaccine while working at the Rockefeller Foundation in New York City. His research involved the attenuation of the yellow fever virus, which aimed to create a safe and effective vaccine to combat the disease responsible for widespread outbreaks. The successful formulation would ultimately lead to significant advancements in public health and the management of infectious diseases across the globe.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Filipino Women Vote for Suffrage Rights

April 30th, 1937 87 years ago

In April 1937, a plebiscite was held in the Commonwealth of the Philippines allowing Filipino women to vote on whether they should be granted the right to suffrage. Over 90% of the voters supported the extension of voting rights to women. This landmark event marked a significant milestone in the advancement of women's rights in the Philippines and in the broader context of democracy in the region.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Hindenburg Zeppelin Fire at Lakehurst

May 6th, 1937 87 years ago

The Hindenburg, a German passenger airship, caught fire while attempting to dock at Naval Air Station Lakehurst in New Jersey. Just moments after the crew began to maneuver the ship into position, a fire broke out, quickly engulfing the aircraft in flames. The disaster marked a critical moment in aviation history, resulting in the loss of 36 lives and raising questions about the safety of airship travel.

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Military & Warfare

Condor Legion Arrives to Support Franco

May 7th, 1937 87 years ago

The German Condor Legion arrived in Spain to support Francisco Franco's forces with advanced aerial capabilities. Utilizing the Heinkel He 51 biplanes, the Legion aimed to strengthen the Nationalist position against the Republicans during the Spanish Civil War. This deployment marked a significant escalation in foreign intervention in the conflict, aligning Nazi Germany's interests with Franco's increasingly authoritarian regime. The presence of the Condor Legion would have lasting effects on military strategies employed throughout the war.

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Politics & Government

Coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth

May 12th, 1937 87 years ago

The Duke and Duchess of York were crowned at Westminster Abbey, with ceremonies attended by dignitaries from across the globe. The event was marked by grandeur and tradition, reflecting the British monarchy's resilience during challenging times. As George VI ascended the throne, he pledged to uphold the legacy of his predecessor, navigating the monarchy through the looming challenges of the 20th century. The occasion was not only a family affair but also a public spectacle, capturing the hearts of millions worldwide who tuned in to witness the historic moment.

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Politics & Government

Largo Caballero Resigns; Negrín Forms New Government

May 17th, 1937 87 years ago

In the wake of the Barcelona May Days, and following the internal conflicts among leftist factions, Francisco Largo Caballero's government resigned. This political change arose from increased tensions in the Spanish Civil War, particularly after violent clashes between rival anarchist and socialist groups in Barcelona. Subsequently, Juan Negrín was appointed to form a new government, notably excluding the anarcho-syndicalist CNT, reflecting a strategic shift in the Spanish Republican coalition. This marked a significant point in the governance of the Spanish Republic during the Civil War.

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Exploration & Discovery

First Arctic Research Station Established

May 21st, 1937 87 years ago

North Pole-1 was the inaugural scientific station set up on the drifting ice of the Arctic Ocean by the Soviet Union. Established by a team of scientists and explorers led by Ivan Papanin, North Pole-1 aimed to conduct extensive research on polar climate, ice movements, and meteorology. Located near the North Pole, the station utilized cutting-edge technology of the time. The research conducted there significantly broadened the understanding of the Arctic environment and yielded valuable data for future polar expeditions.

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