In the year 1912, the world experienced a mix of triumphs and tragedies, set against a backdrop of rapid change and transformation.
- Tensions were rising in Europe as major powers vied for dominance, while in the United States, the presidential election heated up with Theodore Roosevelt's bid for a third term.
European Power Struggles:
- Germany, led by Kaiser Wilhelm II, emerged as a dominant force in Europe, with a robust industrial economy and military might.
- Meanwhile, Russia faced growing unrest and demands for political freedoms, foreshadowing the Russian Revolution in 1917.
US Presidential Election:
- Theodore Roosevelt's charismatic campaign for a third presidential term garnered attention. He was known for championing the working class and social justice.
The Titanic Tragedy:
- The sinking of the Titanic, the largest and most luxurious ocean liner, resulted in the loss of over 1,500 lives after striking an iceberg.
- The disaster served as a sobering reminder of human vulnerability and the consequences of overconfidence.
Triumphs and Breakthroughs:
- The Stockholm Olympics featured the inclusion of the modern pentathlon, and Jim Thorpe's remarkable gold medal wins in both the pentathlon and decathlon.
- In aviation, Roland Garros crossed the Mediterranean, and Harriet Quimby became the first woman to fly across the English Channel.
- In science, Ernest Rutherford's work laid the foundation for the discovery of the atomic nucleus, and Fritz Haber's ammonia synthesis revolutionized agriculture.
- Notable literary works, such as Marcel Proust's "Swann's Way" and Edgar Rice Burroughs' "Tarzan of the Apes," were published, exploring themes of memory, identity, and adventure.
- The ratification of the 17th Amendment in the United States marked a victory for progressive reformers, introducing the direct election of senators by the people.