What Happened This Year 1947

Historical Events from This Year 1947

Accidents & Tragedies

Deadly Fire at Ballantyne's Department Store

November 18th, 1947 77 years ago

A significant fire broke out at Ballantyne's Department Store in Christchurch, New Zealand, resulting in 41 casualties. On the morning of the fire, many shoppers and staff were present in the building. Despite efforts to contain the blaze, it quickly spread, creating a chaotic scene as people attempted to escape the flames.

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Cultural Traditions

Princess Elizabeth marries Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten

November 20th, 1947 77 years ago

Princess Elizabeth married Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten at Westminster Abbey in London. The ceremony was attended by members of the royal family and dignitaries from around the world. Philip Mountbatten adopted the title Duke of Edinburgh and became consort to Elizabeth, who was heir to the British throne. The wedding showcased post-war Britain’s renewed sense of hope and celebration, capturing the public's imagination as the couple embarked on their life together.

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Politics & Government

New Zealand Gains Legislative Independence

November 25th, 1947 77 years ago

New Zealand ratified the Statute of Westminster, freeing itself from legislative control by the United Kingdom. This marked a pivotal step in redefining New Zealand's status within the British Empire, enabling it to create its own laws without needing approval from the UK Parliament. The move was a significant symbol of New Zealand's growing autonomy in international affairs and domestic governance.

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Entertainment

Hollywood Blacklists the Hollywood Ten

November 25th, 1947 77 years ago

In response to alleged communist ties, ten screenwriters and directors, known as the Hollywood Ten, were blacklisted by major movie studios. As members of the industry, they were called before the House Un-American Activities Committee to testify regarding their political beliefs and associations. Their refusal to answer questions about communism, citing the First Amendment, led to their ostracization from Hollywood. This marked a significant moment in the Red Scare, highlighting the tensions between civil liberties and national security during this era.

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Politics & Government

Approval of the UN Partition Plan for Palestine

November 29th, 1947 77 years ago

The United Nations General Assembly approved a resolution for the partition of Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states. The plan aimed to address the conflicting nationalist claims in the region. The decision was met with widespread support from Jewish communities and opposition from Arab leaders, marking a significant pivot in Middle Eastern geopolitics. The partition was a response to growing tensions following World War II and the Holocaust, influencing countless lives and setting the stage for future conflicts.

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Military & Warfare

French Forces Conduct Massacre in Mỹ Trạch

November 29th, 1947 77 years ago

French troops carried out a military operation targeting Vietnamese forces in Mỹ Trạch, resulting in a significant loss of life among local civilians. The incident was part of a broader conflict during the First Indochina War, where French colonial authorities were attempting to suppress the Viet Minh resistance. This operation highlighted the brutal tactics employed by colonial forces in their attempt to maintain control over Vietnam. Reports indicated many innocent civilians were killed, sparking outrage and further resistance against French colonial rule.

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Military & Warfare

Civil War in Mandatory Palestine Erupts

November 30th, 1947 77 years ago

Violence escalated in Mandatory Palestine following the United Nations General Assembly's resolution to partition Palestine into Jewish and Arab states. The Arab community opposed this plan, perceiving it as a threat to their rights and territory, leading to violent confrontations. Jewish paramilitary groups, such as the Haganah and Irgun, began defending Jewish settlements, and tensions rapidly escalated into full-scale warfare. Cities like Jerusalem and Haifa became focal points of conflict among the differing ethnic communities as both sides engaged in armed conflict amid the backdrop of international diplomatic maneuvering.

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Politics & Government

Arab Response to UN Partition Plan

December 2nd, 1947 77 years ago

In response to the United Nations Partition Plan for Palestine, riots erupted in Jerusalem involving Arab residents. Protestors vehemently opposed the division of the land into Jewish and Arab states, fearing loss of their community and sovereignty. Demonstrations turned violent, leading to clashes and casualties. The unrest marked a significant moment of tension in the region, foreshadowing the escalating conflict that would follow.

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Military & Warfare

First Flight of the Boeing B-47 Stratojet

December 17th, 1947 77 years ago

The Boeing B-47 Stratojet, a strategic bomber, took its first flight on December 17, 1947, at the Boeing plant in Renton, Washington. This aircraft, designed to fulfill the United States Air Force's need for a high-speed, long-range bomber capable of carrying nuclear weapons, served as a pivotal part of the Cold War arsenal. The flight marked a significant advancement in jet propulsion technology and bomber design, emphasizing speed and performance.

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