Decade - 1910s

In the early 1900s, the cost of a haircut typically ranged from 25 to 50 cents, depending on the location and the establishment. In larger cities, prices might be slightly higher, while barbers in smaller towns often charged less. This reflects the economic conditions of the time, as well as the varying standards of service and clientele.

World War I erupted due to a complex interplay of factors, including militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism. The immediate trigger was the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in June 1914, which set off a chain reaction of mobilizations and declarations of war among the major European powers. The existing alliances pulled countries into the conflict, escalating it from a regional crisis to a full-scale global war. Additionally, underlying tensions and rivalries contributed to an environment ripe for conflict.

A century ago, in the 1920s, clothing styles varied significantly between men and women. Women often wore flapper dresses characterized by drop waists, shorter hemlines, and less restrictive silhouettes, reflecting the era's social changes. Men commonly donned suits with wide lapels, waistcoats, and fedoras, embodying a more formal aesthetic. Fabrics like silk, wool, and cotton were popular, and clothing was often tailored for a more fitted appearance.

Adolf Hitler served in World War I from 1914 to 1918. He joined the Bavarian Reserve Infantry Regiment and fought on the Western Front, where he was wounded twice and received the Iron Cross for bravery. His military service lasted for the entirety of the war, ending with Germany's defeat in November 1918.

World War I howitzers were artillery pieces designed to fire shells at high angles. They featured a shorter barrel compared to traditional cannons, allowing for greater elevation and the ability to hit targets behind cover, such as trenches and fortifications. Howitzers used a variety of ammunition types, including explosive shells and shrapnel, and were often towed by horses or trucks. Their versatility and range made them crucial for both offensive and defensive operations during the war.

During World War I, the Turks were often referred to as the "Ottoman Turks," reflecting their association with the Ottoman Empire, which was one of the Central Powers. Additionally, they were sometimes called "the Young Turks," a term that originated from a reformist movement within the empire. This nickname highlighted the political changes and modernization efforts that were taking place in the empire during that period.

After World War I, several new unions were formed as a response to the changing social and economic landscape. Notably, the International Federation of Trade Unions (IFTU) was established in 1919 to promote cooperation among labor organizations across countries. Additionally, various national unions emerged, including the American Federation of Labor's (AFL) expansion in the U.S. and the formation of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) in the UK, reflecting the growing labor movement and demands for workers' rights in the post-war era.

In 1912, homes varied significantly based on location, social class, and architectural style. Many middle-class homes featured two stories with distinct rooms for dining, living, and sleeping, often adorned with period furnishings and decorative elements like wallpaper and lace curtains. In urban areas, row houses were common, while rural homes typically included larger porches and gardens. Homes lacked modern conveniences such as central heating and air conditioning, with heating often provided by fireplaces or stoves.

In 1919, communists faced significant backlash and repression, particularly in countries like Germany and Hungary, where revolutionary movements were violently suppressed. In the United States, the Red Scare led to widespread fear of communism, resulting in the arrest and deportation of many leftist activists during the Palmer Raids. Additionally, the establishment of the Comintern aimed to promote global communist revolution, but also intensified hostilities between communist and capitalist nations. Overall, 1919 marked a period of both activism and severe challenges for communist movements worldwide.

Germany was expected to pay for damages resulting from World War I. The Treaty of Versailles, signed in 1919, placed heavy reparations on Germany, holding it primarily responsible for the war. These reparations were intended to compensate the Allied nations for the destruction and economic losses suffered during the conflict. The burdensome payments contributed to economic instability in Germany and were a factor in the rise of political extremism in the following years.

In 1920, the average American worker earned about $1,200 per year, which translates to roughly $100 per month or $50 per paycheck, assuming a biweekly pay schedule. However, wages varied significantly by industry and region, with some workers earning much less while others, particularly in skilled trades or higher-paying jobs, could earn more. The economic context of the post-World War I era, including inflation and labor strikes, also influenced wage levels during this time.

Goiters are much less common today than 100 years ago primarily due to the widespread use of iodized salt, which has significantly improved iodine intake in populations. Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production, and its deficiency was a major cause of goiter. Additionally, advancements in nutrition and public health education have further reduced the prevalence of iodine deficiency. These factors combined have led to a marked decline in the incidence of goiters.

Yes, boats, zeppelins, and planes were all used in World War I. Naval vessels played significant roles in naval blockades and surface battles. Zeppelins, or airships, were used for reconnaissance and bombing raids, although they proved vulnerable to enemy fire. Airplanes emerged as important reconnaissance tools and later for combat, evolving throughout the war to include fighters and bombers.

In 1915, the cost of a new car typically ranged from about $500 to $1,500, depending on the make and model. The Ford Model T, which was one of the most popular cars of the time, could be purchased for around $350. This was a significant investment for many families, as the average annual income was about $200 to $1,000. The price of cars reflected advancements in manufacturing and increasing accessibility to automobile ownership during this period.

Food prices 100 years ago, around the early 1920s, were significantly lower than today. For example, a loaf of bread cost about 10 cents, a gallon of milk was around 50 cents, and a dozen eggs could be purchased for about 30 cents. However, it's important to consider that these prices were reflective of the economic conditions of the time, including wages and the cost of living, which were also much different from today's standards.

Support for World War I varied by country and changed over time, but millions of people were involved in the war effort. In the United States, for example, approximately 4.7 million men and women served in the military. In total, around 65 million soldiers were mobilized from various nations, while civilian populations worldwide contributed through labor, resources, and moral support. Public sentiment initially leaned towards nationalism and patriotism, but as the war progressed, support waned in many areas due to the heavy toll of casualties and hardships.

A century ago, children engaged in a variety of outdoor activities such as playing tag, hopscotch, and marbles, often in their neighborhoods or local parks. They also participated in more organized games like baseball or soccer, which were becoming popular at the time. Many kids helped with household chores or worked in family businesses, while others enjoyed reading and storytelling. Additionally, traditional pastimes like riding bicycles or going on nature walks were common.

Overall, people use more water today than they did 100 years ago, primarily due to population growth, industrialization, and increased agricultural demands. However, improvements in water efficiency and conservation practices have led to less water usage per capita in some regions. Additionally, advancements in technology have allowed for better management of water resources. The overall trend varies by region, influenced by local practices and environmental conditions.

Belgium sought reparations and guarantees of security from Germany following the devastation it experienced during World War I. The treaty aimed to address the destruction of its infrastructure and economy, as well as to ensure that Belgium would not face future aggression. Additionally, Belgium wanted to assert its sovereignty and territorial integrity, seeking recognition from the international community. Overall, Belgium aimed for a fair settlement that would help rebuild and protect the nation in the post-war period.

During World War I, lice significantly affected soldiers' health and morale, leading to conditions such as trench fever, which caused severe pain and fatigue, and was exacerbated by unsanitary living conditions in the trenches. The presence of lice also contributed to the spread of other diseases, further compromising the military's effectiveness. Additionally, the constant itching and discomfort from lice infestations distracted soldiers from their duties and diminished their overall combat readiness. Efforts to combat lice included improved hygiene measures and the use of insecticides, but infestations remained a persistent issue throughout the war.

Approximately 124,000 Minnesotans served in World War I. Of these, around 78,000 were enlisted in the U.S. Army, while others served in various capacities, including the Navy and Marine Corps. Minnesota's contribution included significant participation in several key battles, and the state faced considerable losses during the conflict.

A century ago, boys typically wore knee-length trousers or knickerbockers, often paired with button-up shirts and vests. In cooler weather, they might don jackets or blazers, along with caps or hats as part of their everyday attire. Footwear often included sturdy leather shoes or boots. Overall, boys' fashion was characterized by a more formal and structured style compared to today's casual trends.

A century ago, showering was quite different from today. Many people relied on bathtubs filled with hot water, as indoor plumbing was still becoming widespread. For those who had showers, they often used a simple handheld nozzle connected to a water source, and the experience was less private and more communal in places like public baths. Additionally, showering frequency was generally lower, with baths being more common for personal hygiene.

Piet Mondrian changed his style in pursuit of a more universal form of artistic expression that reflected his philosophical beliefs about harmony and balance. Initially influenced by Impressionism and Cubism, he eventually developed his signature style, known as Neoplasticism, characterized by geometric forms, primary colors, and a strict grid layout. This shift was driven by his desire to convey abstract concepts and the underlying order of nature, moving away from representational art to achieve a purer artistic language. Mondrian believed that this reduction to essentials could resonate more profoundly with viewers, transcending individual experience.

The U.S. faced a recession after World War I due to a combination of factors, including the abrupt transition from a wartime to a peacetime economy, which led to a sharp decline in demand for war-related goods and services. Additionally, inflation surged as production adjusted, and labor strikes arose due to rising costs and wage disputes. The economic instability was compounded by a decrease in international trade and the return of millions of soldiers to the workforce, leading to higher unemployment rates.