Pope Benedict XV Named to Papacy
On September 3, 1914, Pope Benedict XV was named to the papacy, succeeding Pope Pius X. His election came at a time of great turmoil in the world, as World War I had just begun, and his papacy would be defined by efforts to promote peace and humanitarianism during one of history’s most devastating conflicts. […]
Panama Canal Open to Traffic
On August 15, 1914, the Panama Canal officially opened to traffic, marking a monumental achievement in engineering and global trade. The canal, a man-made waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, was a groundbreaking project that revolutionized maritime navigation by significantly reducing the distance and time required for ships traveling between the two oceans. The […]
The Installation of the First Electric Traffic Signal
On August 5, 1914, the first electric traffic signal was installed in Cleveland, Ohio, marking a significant advancement in urban traffic management. This groundbreaking innovation, designed by inventor James Hoge, was introduced at the intersection of Euclid Avenue and 105th Street. The installation of this traffic signal represented a pivotal moment in the evolution of […]
U.S. Proclaims Neutrality in World War I
The Announcement of Neutrality On August 3, 1914, President Woodrow Wilson announced that the United States would remain neutral in the escalating conflict of World War I. This declaration came just days after the outbreak of the war in Europe, as tensions among the major powers reached a boiling point. Wilson’s decision to declare neutrality […]
World War I: Germany Declares War on Russia
On August 1, 1914, Germany declared war on Russia, marking a significant moment that sparked the beginning of World War I. This declaration initiated a chain reaction among global powers, resulting in one of the most devastating conflicts in history. The Events Leading to World War I The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary […]
Babe Ruth Makes MLB Debut
Babe Ruth, one of baseball’s most iconic figures, made his major league debut on July 11, 1914, pitching for the Boston Red Sox against the Cleveland Naps. This game marked the start of an extraordinary career that would see Ruth transition from a promising pitcher to one of the most formidable hitters in the history […]
The Christmas Truce
On Christmas Eve 1914, amidst the horrors of World War I, an extraordinary moment of humanity unfolded as German and British soldiers laid down their arms and emerged from their trenches to celebrate Christmas together in No Man’s Land, sharing carols, cigarettes, and even a game of soccer.