Decade - 1910s

D.W. Griffith's "The Birth of a Nation" became controversial due to its racist portrayal of African Americans and its glorification of the Ku Klux Klan. The film, released in 1915, depicted African Americans in a negative light and perpetuated harmful stereotypes, which sparked widespread protests and criticism from civil rights groups. Its historical inaccuracies and the way it framed the Reconstruction era also contributed to its contentious reception, leading to ongoing debates about its impact on American culture and race relations.

Germany invaded Belgium in World War I as part of the Schlieffen Plan, which aimed to quickly defeat France by advancing through Belgium before turning to fight Russia. The invasion violated Belgium's neutrality, which was guaranteed by international treaties, but Germany considered it a necessary step to outflank French defenses. The assault on Belgium also aimed to secure a swift victory, hoping to avoid a prolonged two-front war. This invasion ultimately drew Britain into the conflict due to its obligation to defend Belgian neutrality.

Charles Joughin was the chief baker aboard the RMS Titanic and is known for his extraordinary survival story during the ship's sinking in April 1912. He remained on the ship until the very end, helping others escape and ensuring that lifeboats were filled. After the ship sank, he managed to survive by clinging to a piece of debris in the icy waters before being rescued by the RMS Carpathia. His quick thinking and bravery contributed to his survival, making him one of the few who lived to tell the tale of the Titanic disaster.

Algeria, then a French colony, entered World War I primarily due to its status as part of the French Empire. The French government mobilized colonial resources and troops to support the war effort, drawing on Algeria's manpower and economic resources. Many Algerians were conscripted into the French Army, while others contributed through labor and supplies. Their involvement was largely driven by colonial obligations rather than a direct choice to participate in the conflict.

World War I profoundly influenced the arts and sciences by catalyzing a shift in perspectives and themes. In the arts, movements such as Dadaism and Surrealism emerged as reactions to the absurdity and trauma of war, challenging traditional forms and conventions. In science, the war accelerated advancements in technology and medicine, including developments in psychology, with figures like Sigmund Freud gaining prominence. This era fostered a spirit of experimentation and innovation that would shape both fields for decades to come.

In 1914, a trip from Poland to New York would typically take several weeks, depending on the mode of travel. Most passengers would travel by ship, with transatlantic voyages lasting around 7 to 14 days, followed by additional time for travel within Europe to reach a major port. Train travel to the port, combined with potential delays, could extend the total journey time to three weeks or more.

A century ago, in the 1920s, popular holiday destinations included coastal resorts, such as Blackpool in the UK and Coney Island in the US, where people flocked for beach outings and amusement parks. European cities like Paris and Rome also attracted tourists, especially the wealthy, who sought cultural experiences and luxury. Additionally, the advent of automobiles allowed for road trips to natural attractions and scenic locations. Train travel was also a common mode of transportation for vacationers heading to various destinations.

In World War I, attacks were often launched at dawn to take advantage of the low light conditions, which provided some cover for soldiers advancing toward enemy positions. Dawn also marked a psychological moment, as it symbolized a fresh start and the potential for success after a night of preparation. Additionally, launching assaults at dawn allowed troops to capitalize on the element of surprise, as many soldiers would be less alert during the early morning hours. This timing aimed to maximize the chances of a successful offensive while minimizing casualties.

Remembering World War I is crucial because it shaped the modern world, leading to significant political, social, and economic changes. The war caused an immense loss of life and altered national borders, setting the stage for future conflicts, including World War II. Commemorating this event helps us understand the consequences of militarism, nationalism, and political alliances, serving as a reminder of the need for diplomacy and peace to prevent such tragedies from recurring. Additionally, honoring the sacrifices made by individuals fosters a sense of gratitude and reflection on the cost of war.

The Siege of Sarajevo, which lasted from 1992 to 1996, was primarily a result of the Bosnian War, driven by ethnic tensions following the breakup of Yugoslavia. Bosnian Serb forces besieged the city, targeting its predominantly Bosniak (Bosnian Muslim) population. The siege aimed to exert control over the region and suppress Bosnian independence. It became one of the longest and most devastating sieges in modern history, marked by severe humanitarian crises and widespread violence.

Militarism and industrialization significantly influenced World War I by fostering an arms race and enabling the mass production of weapons and military equipment. Countries invested heavily in their militaries, leading to a culture that celebrated military power and readiness for war. This buildup created an environment ripe for conflict, as nations were eager to demonstrate their strength and protect their interests. Additionally, industrialization facilitated the rapid mobilization of troops and resources, escalating the scale and lethality of the war.

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.