What Happened This Year 1945

Historical Events from This Year 1945

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Proclamation of Indonesian Independence

August 17th, 1945 79 years ago

Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta declared Indonesia's independence in Jakarta, setting the stage for a revolution against Dutch colonial rule. This proclamation was largely motivated by the weakening of Dutch control during World War II and the desire for self-determination among Indonesians. It was a moment of unity and national pride, marking the rise of Indonesian nationalism.

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Politics & Government

Puyi Renounces Throne of Manchukuo

August 17th, 1945 79 years ago

At Talitzou, near the Sino-Korean border, Puyi, known as the Kangde Emperor of Manchukuo, formally renounces his imperial title. This pivotal action leads to the dissolution of the puppet state of Manchukuo, an entity established by the Japanese during their occupation of China, and cedes its territory back to the Republic of China amidst the backdrop of World War II’s conclusion in Asia.

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Arts & Culture

Publication of George Orwell's Animal Farm

August 17th, 1945 79 years ago

George Orwell's novella 'Animal Farm' was first published in 1945, presenting a satirical commentary on totalitarianism and the Russian Revolution. The story, narrated through the experiences of farm animals, serves as an allegory for the rise of Stalinism. It explores themes of power, corruption, and betrayal, showcasing how revolutions can betray their ideals. Published by Secker & Warburg in London, the work has become a classic of political literature, provoking thought and discussion about governance and society.

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Military & Warfare

Soviet Forces Land at Shumshu Island

August 18th, 1945 79 years ago

Soviet forces executed a military operation landing at Takeda Beach on Shumshu Island as part of the larger Soviet-Japanese War. This action marked the initiation of the Soviet Union's invasion of the Kuril Islands, aimed at expanding territorial control in the region following Japan's impending surrender in World War II. The strategic assault featured significant naval and air support, and the immediate objective was to secure the islands, which had been under Japanese control for decades.

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Politics & Government

Sukarno Becomes Indonesia's First President

August 18th, 1945 79 years ago

Following the declaration of independence from Dutch colonial rule, Sukarno officially took office as the first president of Indonesia. This transition marked a critical moment in the National Revolution. Sukarno was a central figure in Indonesia's fight for independence, rallying support from various factions of the archipelago. The declaration came after years of colonial oppression, and Sukarno's leadership was pivotal in uniting diverse ethnic groups under a common goal of sovereignty. The nation was eager to establish its identity and governance.

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Politics & Government

Ho Chi Minh Declares Independence in Hanoi

August 19th, 1945 79 years ago

The Viet Minh, led by Ho Chi Minh, seized control of Hanoi amid the chaos of World War II's end. On August 19, 1945, following the surrender of Japanese forces, the Viet Minh mobilized support and organized a mass uprising. This marked a significant moment in the struggle for Vietnam's independence from colonial rule. The movement transformed rapidly, as citizens joined in large numbers to demand self-governance.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Fatally Irradiated Incident Involving Harry Daghlian

August 21st, 1945 79 years ago

Harry Daghlian, a physicist, was fatally irradiated while conducting an experiment with the Demon core at Los Alamos National Laboratory. While working to determine the neutron reflection characteristics of the core, Daghlian accidentally dropped a brick that completed a neutron-reflecting configuration. This incident led to a criticality accident, causing a lethal dose of radiation before he could be treated for exposure.

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Politics & Government

Decree for Japanese POW Accommodation Issued

August 23rd, 1945 79 years ago

The USSR State Defense Committee issued Decree no. 9898cc regarding the reception, accommodation, and labor utilization of Japanese Army prisoners of war. This was part of the broader Soviet efforts following their declaration of war against Japan. The decree outlined the obligations of various governmental bodies to ensure the proper handling of these POWs, marking a significant administrative effort during the post-war period.

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Military & Warfare

John Birch Killed by Communist Forces

August 25th, 1945 79 years ago

John Birch, a U.S. intelligence officer, was shot and killed by armed supporters of the Chinese Communist Party shortly after Japan's surrender. The confrontation occurred in the region of Anhui, China, amidst rising tensions between communist and nationalist forces in the aftermath of World War II. Birch had been engaged in intelligence gathering and supporting anti-communist efforts. His death captured attention in the U.S., particularly among conservative circles who viewed him as an early victim of the impending Cold War.

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