What Happened This Year 1938
Historical Events from This Year 1938
Dedication of the Thousand Islands Bridge
Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicates the Thousand Islands Bridge, connecting New York and Ontario over the Saint Lawrence River. This significant infrastructure project aims to enhance cross-border trade and tourism, showcasing the collaboration between the United States and Canada. The event is marked by the presence of notable political figures and a celebration of shared interests in regional development.
Continue ReadingLou Gehrig Sets Grand Slam Record
Lou Gehrig hit his 23rd career grand slam, extending his record for the most grand slams in Major League Baseball history. The impressive feat occurred during a game at Yankee Stadium, solidifying Gehrig's legacy as one of baseball's greatest power hitters. The grand slam was a pivotal moment in the season, showcasing his exceptional talent and securing the Yankees' victory. Fans celebrated this achievement as Gehrig continued to display his prowess on the field.
Continue ReadingJapanese Warplane Shoots Down Kweilin Airliner
A Japanese warplane shot down the Kweilin, a Chinese civilian airliner, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals aboard. This incident marked a significant moment in aviation history as it was the first recorded case of a civilian airliner being targeted and attacked in flight by military forces. The attack took place during the Second Sino-Japanese War, emphasizing the intense conflict between Japan and China.
Continue ReadingYouth Coup Plotters Executed in Chile
A group of youths affiliated with the National Socialist Movement of Chile attempted a coup against the government. After a failed attempt, they surrendered and were executed, marking a significant moment in Chile's political struggles against fascist movements. This incident highlighted the tensions and divisions within the country related to political ideologies, as well as the government's response to such threats.
Continue ReadingHitler's Demands for Sudetenland Autonomy
Adolf Hitler issued a demand for autonomy for the German-speaking population in the Sudetenland region of Czechoslovakia. This demand was part of a broader strategy to influence Czechoslovak politics and expand German territory. The Sudetenland had a significant German-speaking population, and Hitler argued for their rights, which was seen as a pretext for territorial expansion. Tensions escalated as Czechoslovakia faced the threat of German aggression, leading to international diplomatic maneuvers.
Continue ReadingThe Great Hurricane of 1938 Strikes New York
A powerful hurricane made landfall on Long Island, causing significant devastation. With winds exceeding 100 mph, it uprooted trees, destroyed homes, and led to severe flooding. Coastal areas were particularly hard hit, and thousands were left homeless. The storm caused considerable damage to infrastructure, and rescue efforts were hampered by high winds and storm surges. Emergency response teams struggled to reach those in need as conditions remained perilous.
Continue ReadingLaunch of the iconic ocean liner Queen Elizabeth
The ocean liner Queen Elizabeth was launched at the John Brown shipyard in Clydebank, Glasgow. One of the largest and most luxurious ships of its time, she was constructed for the Cunard-White Star Line. The launch was marked by a grand ceremony attended by dignitaries and the ship's godmother, Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, who performed the ceremonial act of breaking a bottle of champagne against the ship’s hull. This event symbolized a significant achievement in maritime engineering and British shipbuilding prowess as the world faced rising tensions leading up to World War II.
Continue ReadingGermany Annexes Sudetenland via Munich Agreement
The Munich Agreement was signed by Britain, France, Germany, and Italy to permit Nazi Germany's annexation of the Sudetenland region of Czechoslovakia. The negotiations took place in Munich, Germany, on September 29 and 30, 1938. This agreement aimed to appease Adolf Hitler's territorial demands and prevent another war in Europe. The Sudetenland had a significant ethnic German population and was rich in resources, which made it a strategic goal for Germany. Czechoslovakia's leaders were not included in the discussions, leading to a sense of betrayal and insecurity in the nation.
Continue ReadingLeague of Nations Outlaws Civilian Bombings
The League of Nations convened members to reach a unanimous resolution outlawing the intentional bombing of civilian populations. This decision stemmed from growing concerns over aerial bombardments during conflicts, particularly as tensions in Europe escalated prior to World War II. This move reflected a desire to establish international humanitarian standards, emphasizing the protection of non-combatants in warfare.
Continue Reading