Decade - 1910s

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.

In 1914, various currencies were in circulation around the world, depending on the country. For example, the United States used the U.S. dollar, while the United Kingdom used the British pound sterling. Other countries had their own currencies, such as the German mark, the French franc, and the Russian ruble. The gold standard was also prevalent at that time, influencing many nations' monetary policies.

Around 1923, the world was in the aftermath of World War I, which had ended in 1918. Many countries were grappling with the consequences of the war, including economic hardships and political instability. In Europe, the Treaty of Versailles had reshaped borders and imposed reparations on Germany, leading to social unrest. Meanwhile, the United States was experiencing the Roaring Twenties, a period of economic growth and cultural change characterized by jazz music, flapper culture, and technological advancements.

Before entering World War I, the U.S. maintained a policy of neutrality, aiming to avoid involvement in European conflicts. This stance was influenced by a desire to focus on domestic issues and the belief that the war did not directly threaten American interests. The U.S. government promoted isolationism, with President Woodrow Wilson advocating for peace and diplomacy over military engagement. However, factors like unrestricted submarine warfare and economic ties to the Allies gradually shifted public opinion towards supporting intervention.

A century ago, Borehamwood was primarily an agricultural village with a focus on farming and rural life. The area was characterized by open fields, small farms, and a close-knit community. It began to change with the arrival of the railway in the early 20th century, which facilitated growth and led to development in housing and industry, setting the stage for its later transformation into a suburban town.

During World War I, Belgium fought for the Allies, primarily alongside the United Kingdom, France, and Russia. After Germany invaded Belgium in August 1914, the country became a battleground, and its resistance against the invasion garnered international support for the Allied cause. Belgium’s involvement was crucial in delaying German advances and preserving the integrity of the Western Front.

In the Edwardian era (1901-1910), women's roles were largely defined by traditional expectations centered around family and domesticity. Many women were expected to fulfill the roles of wives and mothers, managing household duties and raising children. However, this period also saw the emergence of the women's suffrage movement and increased opportunities for education and employment, particularly for the middle and upper classes. As a result, some women began to challenge societal norms, advocating for greater rights and participation in public life.

One hundred years ago, plantations varied widely in size depending on the crop and region, but many were large-scale operations, often exceeding hundreds or even thousands of acres. In the United States, cotton and tobacco plantations in the South could be particularly expansive, relying on significant labor forces, including enslaved people and later sharecroppers. In other parts of the world, such as sugar plantations in the Caribbean or coffee plantations in Brazil, similar trends of large acreage and labor-intensive practices were common. Overall, the scale of plantations reflected the economic demands of the time and the agricultural practices in place.

The Petrograd Soviet exerted significant pressure on Russia's Provisional Government, demanding major reforms such as the immediate end to the war and the transfer of land to the peasantry. They also pushed for workers' rights, including an eight-hour workday and improved labor conditions. Additionally, the Soviet called for the formation of a Constituent Assembly to determine Russia's future governance, thereby challenging the Provisional Government's authority and legitimacy. These demands reflected the growing influence of revolutionary sentiments in the country.

In World War I, Belgium fought for the Allies, which included countries such as France, the United Kingdom, Russia, and later the United States. The conflict began when Germany invaded Belgium in August 1914 as part of their Schlieffen Plan to quickly defeat France. Belgium's resistance against the invasion garnered international support and sympathy, leading to its alignment with the Allied powers throughout the war. Despite suffering significant devastation, Belgium played a critical role in the broader Allied efforts against the Central Powers.

The starting point for both the Oregon Trail and the Santa Fe Trail was Independence, Missouri. This town served as a key launching point for westward expansion in the 19th century, facilitating migration to the Pacific Northwest and trade with Mexico. Independence was strategically located along the Missouri River, making it an ideal hub for pioneers and traders.

Simón Bolívar tirelessly worked to accomplish the dream of a united and independent Latin America, free from Spanish colonial rule. He envisioned a federation of republics, often referred to as "Gran Colombia," which would include present-day Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Panama. His efforts aimed to foster political unity and social justice across the region, inspired by Enlightenment ideals of liberty and equality. Despite his successes in liberating several countries, the dream of lasting unity ultimately proved elusive.

One hundred years ago, in 1923, the President of the United States was Warren G. Harding. He served from 1921 until his death in 1923. Harding's presidency was marked by significant economic growth but also by scandals, such as the Teapot Dome scandal, which emerged after his death. He was succeeded by Vice President Calvin Coolidge.

A century ago, in the 1920s, fashion was characterized by a shift towards more relaxed styles. Women often wore flapper dresses, which were knee-length and featured loose fits, with dropped waists and embellishments like sequins and fringe. Men commonly donned tailored suits with wide lapels, along with fedoras and ties, reflecting a more formal yet stylish aesthetic. Overall, the era marked a significant departure from the restrictive clothing of the previous decades, emphasizing freedom and self-expression.

No, George Stephenson was not an only child. He had several siblings, including a brother named Robert and a sister named Mary. Stephenson's family faced financial challenges, which influenced his early life and education. These circumstances led him to work at a young age, eventually becoming a prominent engineer known as the "Father of Railways."