Democracy and dissent

Cite
Save
Share This
Email this content

Share Link

Copy this link, or click below to email it to a friend
Email this content
or copy the link directly:

https://www.oxfordreference.com/display/10.1093/acref/9780191737152.timeline.0001?p=emailAIMqEB8vB1pCo&d=/10.1093/acref/9780191737152.timeline.0001
The link was not copied. Your current browser may not support copying via this button.

Link copied successfully

Timeline: Democracy and dissent

Years: 508 BCE - 2011	Subject: Social sciences, Politics
Publisher: HistoryWorld	Online Publication Date: 2012
Current online version: 2012	eISBN: 9780191737152

Jump to a year:

BCE CE

Year	Event
508 BCE	Cleisthenes, brought to power by popular support, puts into effect a major programme of political reform in Athens See this event in other timelines: 6th century BCE Ancient Athens Politics Europe Greece
487 BCE	Ostracism is introduced in Athens as a way of getting rid of unpopular politicians Go to o'stracism in The Oxford Companion to Classical Literature (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 5th century BCE Ancient Athens Politics Europe Greece
462 BCE	With the army away, Pericles introduces full democracy for all Athenian citizens, enabling them to vote and participate in the administration of the state Go to Athenian democracy in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 5th century BCE Ancient Athens Politics Europe Greece
139 BCE	A secret ballot is instituted for Roman citizens, who mark their vote on a tablet and place it in an urn Go to elections and voting in Oxford Dictionary of the Classical World (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 2nd century BCE Politics Europe Greece Italy
726	The Venetians for the first time elect their own doge, acting independently of the Byzantine governor in Ravenna Go to doge in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 8th century Byzantine empire Politics Venice Europe Italy Empires
c. 850	Communal gatherings, the thing and the larger althing, are the distant origins of Scandinavian parliaments Go to parliament in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Politics (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 9th century Politics Europe
930	An althing of chieftains establishes the commonwealth of Iceland, which will survive for more than three centuries Go to commonwealth in The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 10th century Politics Europe
c. 1000	Iceland's parliament, the althing, passes a resolution that everyone on the island is to be baptized Go to resolution in A Dictionary of Law (7 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 10th century 11th century Politics Religion Christianity Europe
c. 1100	Many of the towns of northern Italy acquire virtual independence as self-governing communes Go to Communes in The Oxford Companion to Italian Literature (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 11th century 12th century Politics Europe Italy
1188	Representatives of the towns in Léon are summoned to one of the earliest known parliaments Go to León in Encyclopedia of the Middle Ages (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 12th century Politics Europe Spain
c. 1200	Flemish towns begin to acquire municipal independence, as communes, following the earlier Italian trend Go to Communes in The Oxford Companion to Italian Literature (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 12th century 13th century Politics Europe Belgium Netherlands
c. 1250	France becomes the first kingdom to establish a permanent parliament when Louis IX reserves a chamber in his palace for quarterly sessions Go to Louis IX, St (1214–70) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 13th century Politics Europe France
1294	The first open-air democratic assembly, later characteristic of the Swiss cantons, is held in Schwyz Go to canton in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 13th century Politics Switzerland
1295	The parliament summoned by Edward I in Westminster Hall is later seen as a 'model' for the breadth of its representation Go to Edward I (b. 18 June 1239) in The Kings and Queens of Britain (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: Britain 1066-1500 13th century Politics British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1297	The English government in Dublin calls a parliament on the lines of England's recent Model Parliament Go to Model Parliament in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 13th century Politics British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
1302	The estates-general of France gather for the first time, in Notre Dame, to consider the king's relationship with the pope Go to States-General in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 14th century Politics Papacy Europe France
1320	The leading role of Schwyz in the victory at Morgarten causes the independent cantons to become informally known as the Swiss confederation Go to Schwyz (Switzerland) in The Concise Dictionary of World Place-Names (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 14th century Austrian empire Politics Austria Switzerland Empires
1347	Cola di Rienzo, appointed tribune of the people, enjoys a few months of dictatorial powers in Rome before the citizens tire of him Go to Rienzo, Cola di (c.1313–54) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: Renaissance 14th century Italian Renaissance Politics Rome Europe Italy
c. 1450	The Swedish Riksdag includes peasants as a fourth estate, alongside clergy, nobles and burghers Go to Estate in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 15th century Politics Europe Sweden
1463	The assembly brought together in Bruges in 1463 is later seen as the first full gathering of the Netherlands States-General Go to States-General in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 15th century Politics Europe Belgium Netherlands
1493	John I Albert summons the first recorded sejm, a parliament representing the whole of Poland Go to John Albert (1459–1501) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 15th century Politics Europe Poland
1621	William Bradford, one of the Pilgrims from the Mayflower, is elected governor of the new Plymouth Colony Go to Bradford, William (1590–1657) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Conquest and colonization British colonial America British empire European empires from 1415 Europe Empires North America United States
1679	The rival political parties in Britain find abusive names for each other - Whigs and Tories Go to Tory in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Britain 1500-1750 Politics British Isles Europe Britain
1776	The revolutionary convention of Virginia votes for independence from Britain, and instructs its delegates in Philadelphia to propose this motion Go to Continental Congress (1774) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century American Revolution American Revolutionary War Politics Protest and rebellion War British colonial America European empires from 1415 Europe Empires Wars and Revolutions North America United States Virginia's motion for independence from Britain is passed at the Continental Congress of the colonies with no opposing vote Go to Continental Congress (1774) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century American Revolution American Revolutionary War Politics Protest and rebellion War British colonial America European empires from 1415 Europe Empires Wars and Revolutions North America United States Thomas Jefferson's text for the Declaration of Independence is accepted by the Congress in Philadelphia Go to Declaration of Independence in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century American Revolution American Revolutionary War Politics Protest and rebellion War British colonial America European empires from 1415 US presidents Europe Empires Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions North America United States John Hancock is the first delegate to sign the Declaration of Independence, formally written out on a large sheet of parchment Go to Hancock, John (1737–93) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century American Revolution American Revolutionary War Politics Protest and rebellion War British colonial America European empires from 1415 Europe Empires Wars and Revolutions North America United States
1777	The US Congress agrees the final version of the Articles of Confederation, defining the terms on which states join the Union Go to Articles of Confederation (1781) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century American Revolution American Revolutionary War Politics War Wars and Revolutions North America United States
1787	Delegates meeting in Philadelphia agree a final draft for a US constitution, to be submitted to the states for ratification Go to Constitution of the United States in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century American Revolution Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions North America United States
1788	The constitution of the United States is ratified by the states, but it is immediately agreed that amendments will be desirable Go to Constitution of the United States in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century American Revolution Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions North America United States The ministers of Louis XVI reluctantly announce that the estates general will meet in 1789, for the first time since 1614 Go to estates general in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Politics (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century French Revolution Politics Europe France Wars and Revolutions
1791	The first ten amendments to the US Constitution, collectively known as the Bill of Rights, are ratified by the states Go to Bill of Rights in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States
1792	The first political parties, Hamilton's Federalists and Jefferson's Republicans, emerge in the USA Go to Democratic Republican Party in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States
1800	Republican Thomas Jefferson and Federalist Aaron Burr have an identical number of Electoral College votes in the US presidential election Go to Burr, Aaron (1756–1836) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century 19th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States
1812	The Spanish Cortes in Cadiz produces a strikingly liberal new constitution for Spain Go to Spanish–South American Wars of Independence (1810–25) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics Europe Spain
1821	Bolívar defeats the Spanish at Carabobo and liberates, for the second time, his native city of Caracas Go to Bolívar, Simón (1783–1830) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics Protest and rebellion European empires from 1415 Spanish empire Europe Empires Latin America South America
1822	After defeating the Spanish at Pichincha, Antonio José de Sucre enters Quito and liberates Ecuador Go to Sucre, Antonio José de (1795–1830) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics Protest and rebellion European empires from 1415 Spanish empire Europe Empires Latin America South America
1824	The Republican party in the USA splits into National Republicans and Democratic Republicans Go to Republican Party (USA) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Politics (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States
1828	Conservative 'bigwigs' and liberal 'novices' emerge as Chile's two main political parties Go to Chile in Oxford Encyclopedia of the Modern World (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics China Latin America Chile South America Irish nationalist Daniel O'Connell wins a sensational by-election victory to join the Westminster parliament Go to O'Connell, Daniel (1775–1847) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics British Isles Europe Ireland Britain Adult white males now have the vote in almost all the states of the USA Go to suffrage in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Politics (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States Andrew Jackson, elected president of the USA, introduces the era known as Jacksonian democracy Go to Jackson, Andrew (1767–1845) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States
1831	Old Sarum, the most notorious of Britain's rotten boroughs, has just seven voters but returns two members to parliament Go to Old Sarum in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Britain 1750-1900 Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1834	The Tories in Britain adopt a reassuring name for an uncertain future – Conservatives Go to Conservative Party in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Britain 1750-1900 Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain The opponents of US president Andrew Jackson, mockingly called King Andrew, become known as the Whig party Go to Whig Party in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States
1835	Alexis de Tocqueville publishes in French the first two volumes of his extremely influential study Democracy in America Go to Tocqueville, Alexis, Comte de (1805–59) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Literature American literature French literature Literature in English Politics Europe France North America United States
c. 1837	The Whig party in Britain begin referring to themselves as Liberals Go to Whigs in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain
1842	Irish nationalist Daniel O'Connell pioneers mass political demonstrations, which become known as 'monster meetings' Go to Monster Meetings in Brewer's Dictionary of Irish Phrase & Fable (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
1852	Louis Napoleon, asking the French people to approve his elevation to emperor as Napoleon III, receives a resounding yes in the plebiscite Go to Napoleon III (1808–73) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Europe France
1858	Lionel Nathan Rothschild becomes the first Jew to sit in Britain's House of Commons, taking his oath on the Old Testament Go to Rothschild Family in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 Politics Religion Judaism Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain
1860	Lincoln becomes the Republican presidential candidate, benefiting from a Democratic party split on the issue of slavery Go to Lincoln, Abraham (1809–65) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics Slavery War US presidents American civil war Society Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions North America United States
1861	The Liberals recover Mexico City and elect Benito Juarez as president Go to Juárez, Benito Pablo (1806–72) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics Latin America Central America Mexico
1863	President Lincoln, in honouring the Union dead at Gettysburg, captures in three minutes the essence of American democracy Go to Gettysburg Address in The Concise Oxford Companion to American Literature (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics War US presidents American civil war Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions North America United States
1865	A committee to campaign for women's suffrage is formed in Manchester, the first of many in Britain Go to women's suffrage in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1866	The Fourteenth Amendment to the US constitution (not ratified till 1868) assures equal rights as citizens to all born or naturalized in the USA Go to Fourteenth Amendment in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Politics (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics War American civil war Wars and Revolutions North America United States
1867	Britain's new Reform Act extends the franchise to working men in British towns Go to Reform Acts in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain The US Congress passes Reconstruction Acts, dividing the defeated South into military districts and insisting on elections by universal male suffrage Go to Reconstruction Acts (1867–68) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States
1869	The Fifteenth Amendment to the US Constitution (ratified in 1870) makes it illegal to deny the right to vote on racial grounds Go to Fifteenth Amendment (1870) in The Oxford Companion to United States History (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States
1870	As the result of a plebiscite, Rome and the remaining papal states are included in the kingdom of Italy Go to States of the Church in The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (3 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics Papacy Rome Europe Italy
1872	The Ballot Act adds to the British electoral system the essential element of secrecy in voting Go to secret ballot in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1875	Charles Stewart Parnell takes his seat in the House of Commons at Westminster and immediately adds zest to the campaign for Home Rule Go to Parnell, Charles Stewart (1846–91) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
1877	The Compromise of 1877 settles the disputed US presidential election but ends active Republican commitment to the cause of Reconstruction in the southern states Go to Compromise of 1877. in The Oxford Companion to United States History (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States
1878	Romania achieves a new status as an internationally recognized independent nation Go to Berlin, Congress of (1878) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics Protest and rebellion Europe
1881	The Tynwald in the Isle of Man becomes the first parliament to give women the vote Go to Keys, House of in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain
1886	Those in Britain's Liberal party opposing Home Rule for Ireland become a separate group under the name of Unionists Go to Liberal Unionists in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Northern Ireland British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Ireland Rulers and politicians Britain
1891	A new Populist Party, dedicated to democracy and welfare, begins a brief career of considerable political influence in the USA Go to Populist Party in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Politics North America United States
1892	Keir Hardie wins the London seat of West Ham, becoming the first Labour member of the House of Commons Go to Hardie, Keir (b. 15 Aug. 1856) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain
1893	The Independent Labour Party, later changing its name to the Labour Party, is founded in Britain by the trade unionist Keir Hardie Go to Independent Labour Party in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1900	The faction founded in Bohemia by Tomas Masaryk becomes known as the Progressive party Go to Masaryk, Tomáš Garrigue (1850–1937) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century 1900s 20th century Politics Bohemia Czech Republic Keir Hardie is returned to parliament for Merthyr Tydfil, beginning a long and close link between the Labour party and Wales. Go to Hardie, (James) Keir (1856–1915) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 1900s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Wales British Isles Europe Britain The Irish Parliamentary Party, which split after the Parnell divorce case, reunites under the leadership of John Redmond Go to Redmond, John Edward (b. 1 Sept. 1856) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century Victorian era Britain 1750-1900 1900s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Ireland Britain Lenin and comrades launch in Munich a radical newspaper, Iskra ('the spark') Go to Lenin, Vladimir Ilich (1870–1924) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 19th century 1900s 20th century Politics Communism Europe Russia
1902	In his pamphlet What is to be done? Lenin argues for early action to promote revolution Go to Lenin, Vladimir Ilich (1870–1924) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1900s 20th century Politics Communism Europe Russia Irish politician Arthur Griffith launches Sinn Fein, as an organization campaigning for a strong and independent Ireland Go to Sinn Fein in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: Edwardian era 1900s 20th century Politics War Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
1903	Lenin's supporters become known as the Bolsheviks ('majority') as opposed to the Mensheviks ('minority') after a split at the party's Second Congress Go to Bolsheviks in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1900s 20th century Politics Communism Europe Russia Emmeline Pankhurst founds the Women's Social and Political Union to fight for women's political rights in the UK Go to Pankhurst, Emmeline (b. 4 July 1858) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: Edwardian era 1900s 20th century Politics War Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1905	Transvaal politician Louis Botha forms Het Volk ('The People'), a party committed to Afrikaner self-government Go to Botha, Louis (1862–1919) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: Edwardian era 1900s 20th century Politics War European empires from 1415 European empires in Africa Africa South Africa South Africa (republic) Europe Empires Troops fire on a demonstration in St Petersburg, in the event which becomes known as Bloody Sunday Go to Russian Revolution (1905) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1900s 20th century Politics Europe Russia Industrial Workers of the World (with its members later known as Wobblies) is founded in Chicago as a radical union initiative Go to Industrial Workers of the World in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1900s 20th century Politics North America United States Strikes and riots sweep across Russia in the wake of St Petersburg's Bloody Sunday Go to Russian Revolution (1905) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1900s 20th century Politics Europe Russia More than 360,000 Norwegians vote to end the union with Sweden, with only 184 against Go to Norway in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1900s 20th century Politics Europe Norway The Ulster Unionist Party is founded in Belfast to oppose Home Rule Go to Ulster Unionist Party in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: Edwardian era 1900s 20th century Politics War Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Ireland Rulers and politicians Britain
1906	Henry Campbell-Bannerman leads the Liberals to a massive election victory in the UK on a promised programme of reform Go to Campbell-Bannerman, Sir Henry (1836–1908) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: Edwardian era 1900s 20th century Politics War Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Britain's Labour Party achieves its first electoral success, winning twenty-nine seats at Westminster Go to Labour Party in The Oxford Companion to Family and Local History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: Edwardian era 1900s 20th century Politics War Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain The Liberals win a majority in election for Russia's new duma and press ahead with proposals for land reform Go to Stolypin, Piotr Arkadievich (b. 14 Apr. 1862) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1900s 20th century Politics Europe Russia Mahatma Gandhi, confronted by racial discrimination in South Africa, launches a programme of passive resistance (satyagraha) Go to satyagraha in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: Edwardian era 1900s 20th century Politics War British empire Africa South Africa South Africa (republic) Empires The All-India Muslim League is set up at a meeting of the Muhammadan Educational Conference in Dhaka Go to Muslim League in The Oxford Dictionary of Islam (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: Edwardian era 1900s 20th century Politics Religion Islam War British empire Asia South Asia India (the subcontinent) Empires
1907	A separatist party in Spain, Solidaridad Catalana, makes electoral gains in Catalonia Go to Catalonia in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1900s 20th century Politics Europe Spain
1908	The Young Turks of Salonika organize a successful uprising against the autocracy of the Ottoman sultan Go to Young Turks in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1900s 20th century Politics Turks Muslim empires Ottoman empire Asia West Asia Turkey Empires
1909	The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is founded in response to two lynchings in Illinois Go to National Association for the Advancement of Colored People in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1900s 20th century Politics North America United States Mahatma Gandhi, on a visit to India, publishes a pamphlet entitled Hind Swaraj ("Indian Home Rule") Go to Gandhi, Mahatma (1869–1948) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: Edwardian era 1900s 20th century Politics War British empire European empires from 1415 Asia South Asia India (the subcontinent) Europe Empires
1910	Edward Carson, previously a prominent Conservative politician at Westminster, becomes leader of the Ulster Unionist party Go to Carson, Edward Henry (9 Feb. 1854) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: Edwardian era 1910s 20th century Politics War Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Ireland Britain A revolution begins in Mexico that will last ten years before being resolved Go to Mexican Revolution (1910–40) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Latin America Central America Mexico Sun Yatsen and others merge several smaller Chinese political groups into the Guomindang, or Nationalist Party Go to Guomindang in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Asia East Asia China
1911	Emiliano Zapata leads peasant groups in the Mexican revolution, under the slogan 'Land and Liberty' Go to Zapata, Emiliano (8 Aug. 1879) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Latin America Central America Mexico Edward Carson tells a vast crowd in Northern Ireland that they must be ready to defend their Protestant province by force Go to Carson, Edward Henry (9 Feb. 1854) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Ireland Rulers and politicians Britain An uprising in the city of Wuchang is the first major event in the rapidly developing Chinese revolution Go to Wuchang Revolution in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Asia East Asia China
1912	Former president Theodore Roosevelt campaigns against President Taft for the Republican nomination Go to Roosevelt, Theodore (27 Oct. 1858) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States UK suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst is arrested, released and rearrested twelve times within the year Go to Pankhurst, Emmeline (1858–1928) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain At a conference in Prague Lenin forms the Bolsheviks into a separate political party with himself as leader Go to Lenin, Vladimir Ilich (22 Apr. 1870) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Communism Bohemia Czech Republic Benito Mussolini, an active revolutionary Socialist, becomes editor of the party newspaper in Italy Go to Mussolini, Benito (29 July 1883) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Europe Italy The Social Democrats become the largest group in Germany's Reichstag Go to Germany in Oxford Encyclopedia of the Modern World (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Germany Electoral reform is introduced in Argentina, with universal male suffrage and a secret ballot Go to Argentina in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Latin America Argentina South America William Howard Taft defeats Theodore Roosevelt at the Republican convention to win the nomination Go to Taft, William Howard (15 Sept. 1857) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States Theodore Roosevelt's followers form a rival party to the Republicans, soon to be known as the Bull Moose party Go to Progressive Party of 1912–1924. in The Oxford Companion to United States History (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States The South African National Native Congress (subsequently the ANC, African National Congress) is set up in Cape Province Go to ANC in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics European empires from 1415 European empires in Africa Africa South Africa South Africa (republic) Europe Empires Half a million Unionist men and women in Belfast commit themselves to civil disobedience if Home Rule government is established in Ireland Go to Ulster Covenant in Brewer's Dictionary of Irish Phrase & Fable (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Northern Ireland British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Ireland Rulers and politicians Britain
1913	Unionists in Ulster aim to raise a Volunteer Force of 100,000 men, and begin drilling with dummy wooden rifles Go to Ulster Volunteer Force in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Ireland Britain A suffragette, Emily Davison, dies after throwing herself under the king's horse in the Derby at Epsom Go to suffragettes in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain The Irish National Volunteers are formed in Dublin, in response to the Protestant equivalent in Ulster Go to Irish Volunteers in Brewer's Dictionary of Irish Phrase & Fable (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
1914	J.B.M. Hertzog founds the National Party in South Africa to represent Afrikaner interests Go to Hertzog, J. B. M. (1866–1942) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Africa South Africa South Africa (republic) A suffragette slashes the Rokeby Venus by Velázquez in London's National Gallery Go to Rokeby Venus in Brewer's Dictionary of London Phrase & Fable (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain British officers stationed at the Curragh in Dublin say they would resign if ordered to quell Protestant resistance in Ulster Go to Curragh in The Oxford Companion to Military History (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Ireland Britain Benito Mussolini, advocating Italian entry into the war on the side of the Allies, is expelled from the Socialist party Go to Mussolini, Benito (29 July 1883) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Europe Italy
1915	Mahatma Gandhi returns to India after more than twenty years in South Africa Go to Gandhi, Mahatma (1869–1948) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics British empire Asia South Asia India (the subcontinent) Empires
1916	The occupation of the General Post Office in Dublin marks the beginning of the Easter Rising Go to Easter Rising (24 Apr) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Ireland Britain Eamon de Valera comes to prominence as one of the republican leaders in the Easter Rising Go to De Valera, Éamon (14 Oct. 1882) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
1917	The Jones Act gives Puerto Ricans US citizenship and a popularly elected Senate and House of Representatives Go to Jones Act in The Oxford Encyclopedia of Latinos and Latinas in the United States (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Latin America Caribbean North America United States March 15 - the Petrograd Soviet demands drastic reforms in return for supporting the proposed Provisional Government in Russia Go to Russian Revolution (1917) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Politics (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Europe Russia September - Russian opinion polarizes, with support growing for left-wing Bolsheviks and right-wing Kadets Go to Russian Revolution (1917) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Politics (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Europe Russia November 8-12 - the Bolsheviks attempt to stifle opposition in the run-up to the election for Russia's new Constituent Assembly Go to Bolsheviks in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Europe Russia December - the Cheka (origin of the KGB) is established to suppress political dissent in Russia Go to Cheka in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Europe Russia
1918	British women are at last given the right to vote, but only if aged 30 or over Go to suffrage in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Wafd, a national party, is formed in Cairo with the purpose of ending Egypt's enforced link with Britain Go to Wafd in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics European empires from 1415 European empires in Africa Africa North Africa Egypt Europe Empires Countess Markiewicz, an Irish republican, is elected a member of Britain's House of Commons but refuses to take her seat Go to Rebel Countess, the in Brewer's Dictionary of Irish Phrase & Fable (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics British Isles Europe Ireland Britain Lloyd George, fighting the British general election as head of a coalition, devastates the Liberal opposition Go to Lloyd George, David (17 Jan. 1863) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1919	Returning from active service with the Royal Navy, Erskine Childers devotes his energies to Sinn Fein and Irish independence Go to Childers, Erskine (1870–1922) in The Oxford Companion to Irish History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics British Isles Europe Ireland Britain Mussolini founds the Fasci di Combattimento, dedicated to opposing the Socialist party Go to Mussolini, Benito (29 July 1883) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Europe Italy Adolf Hitler joins the tiny German Workers' party, the members of which share his own virulent anti-Semitism Go to Hitler, Adolf (b. 20 Apr. 1889) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Germany Nancy Astor, as MP for Plymouth, becomes the first woman to take her seat in Britain's House of Commons Go to Astor, Nancy Witcher Langhorne,Viscountess (1879–1964) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1910s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain
1920	A plebiscite in Schleswig establishes the border between Denmark and Germany Go to Schleswig–Holstein in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 20th century Politics Europe Denmark Germany The Nineteenth Amendment to the US Constitution guarantees women the right to vote Go to Nineteenth Amendment. (1920) in The Oxford Companion to United States History (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States A Communist uprising in the Ruhr is suppressed with difficulty by the German army Go to Spartakist Movement in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 20th century Politics Communism Germany
1921	The republican party Sinn Fein is unopposed in southern Ireland's first general election, and so wins every available seat in the Dail Go to Sinn Fein in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 20th century Politics British Isles Europe Ireland Britain Mussolini and 35 of his Fascist colleagues win seats in the Italian parliament Go to Mussolini, Benito (29 July 1883) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 20th century Politics Europe Italy The Sinn Fein members of southern Ireland's new parliament assemble on their own, under the name Dáil Eireann (Assembly of Ireland) Go to Dáil Éireann in The Oxford Companion to Irish History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 20th century Politics British Isles Europe Ireland Britain The Young Kikuyu Association is formed in Kenya, to fight for African rights and the restoration of Kikuyu land Go to Kenya in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 20th century Politics British empire European empires from 1415 European empires in Africa Africa East Africa Europe Empires Adolf Hitler becomes leader of the Nazi party, which now has about 3000 members Go to Nazi Party in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 20th century Politics Germany Mao Zedong leads a delegation to the First Congress of the Chinese Communist Party in Shanghai Go to Mao Zedong (26 Dec. 1893) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 20th century Politics Communism Asia East Asia China Agnes Macphail becomes the first woman to sit in Canada's parliament Go to Macphail, Agnes Campbell (1890–1954) in The Oxford Companion to Canadian History (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 20th century Politics North America Canada
1922	In elections to the Dáil the pro-treaty faction of Collins and Griffith defeats the opposition, led by de Valera Go to Collins, Michael (1890–1922) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics British Isles Europe Ireland Britain Lloyd George loses his majority in the House of Commons when the Conservatives vote in a Carlton Club meeting to withdraw from his coalition Go to Lloyd George, David (17 Jan. 1863) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain The Labour party, winning 142 seats and beating the Liberals into third place, becomes for the first time the official UK opposition Go to Labour Party, UK in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain
1923	With Mussolini already installed as Il Duce, his party wins 65% of the votes in a general election Go to Mussolini, Benito (29 July 1883) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics Europe Italy The African National Congress (ANC) is formed in South Africa by renaming the South African National Native Congress Go to ANC in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics European empires from 1415 European empires in Africa Africa South Africa South Africa (republic) Europe Empires De Valera and his followers do well in elections to the Dáil but decline to take their seats Go to De Valera, Éamon (14 Oct. 1882) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics British Isles Europe Ireland Britain Margaret Bondfield is the first woman to be chairman of Britain's Trades Union Congress Go to Bondfield, Margaret Grace (17 Mar. 1873) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain
1925	Plaid Cymru, the 'party of Wales', is founded in a temperance hotel in Pwllheli during the National Eisteddfod Go to Plaid Cymru in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Wales British Isles Europe Britain The RSS party, from which the present Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) derives, is established in India by Keshava Baliram Hedgewar Go to Rāṣṭrīya Svayamsevak Saṅgh(a) in A Dictionary of Hinduism (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics Religion Asia South Asia India (the subcontinent) A.J. Cook, leader of Britain's miners, insists 'Not a penny off the pay, not a minute on the day' Go to General Strike, British in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics Commerce and industry Social and domestic Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Society Britain
1926	Eamon de Valera's faction, Fianna Fáil (Warriors of Ireland), enters mainstream Irish life as a political party Go to Fianna Fáil in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
1927	Achmed Sukarno becomes the first chairman of the new Indonesian Nationalist Party Go to Sukarno, Achmad (b. 6 June 1901) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics Asia East Asia Southeast Asia De Valera and his party, the Fianna Fáil, finally take their seats in the Dáil Go to Fianna Fáil in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
1928	The age limit for British women to vote is lowered to 21, finally giving them parity with men Go to women's suffrage in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Hassan al-Banna, a schoolteacher in Ismailia, founds the Muslim Brotherhood – to campaign for a society based on the Qu'ran with the sharia as its legal system Go to Muslim Brotherhood in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics Religion Islam Africa North Africa Egypt
1929	Margaret Bondfield becomes the first woman to sit in the British cabinet, as minister of labour Go to Bondfield, Margaret (1873–1953) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1920s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain
1930	Adolf Hitler puts Joseph Goebbels at the head of the Nazi party's propaganda campaign Go to Goebbels, Joseph (1897–1945) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Germany The Nazis become the second largest party in the Reichstag, winning 107 seats Go to Nazi Party in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Germany Wallace D. Fard founds the Nation of Islam as a black separatist movement in the USA Go to Nation of Islam in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Religion Islam North America United States
1932	Adolf Hitler stands for election as president of the German republic and wins 36% of the vote Go to Nazi Party in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Germany Troops using bayonets and tear gas drive out of Washington the Bonus Army, a group of protesting unemployed war veterans Go to Bonus Army (1932) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Social and domestic US presidents Society Rulers and politicians North America United States Winning 230 seats in the election, the Nazis become the largest party in the Reichstag (albeit not with a majority) Go to Nazi Party in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Germany
1933	The electoral campaign for a new Reichstag, demanded by Hitler, is conducted with escalating Nazi violence Go to Reichstag in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Germany Adolf Hitler wins massive referendum support for his withdrawal of Germany from the Disarmament Conference and the League of Nations Go to League of Nations in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s Second World War 20th century Politics War Germany Wars since 1900
1934	Elijah Muhammad takes control of the Nation of Islam, or Black Muslims, and leads the movement for more than 40 years Go to Muhammad, Elijah (1975) in The Oxford Dictionary of Islam (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Religion Islam North America United States The Scottish National Party, or SNP, is founded to campaign for an independent Scotland Go to Scottish National Party in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Scotland British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain In a referendum 38 million German voters say yes to Adolf Hitler becoming Führer, Germany's supreme leader Go to Hitler, Adolf (1889–1945) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Germany Mohammed Ali Jinnah becomes president of the Muslim League in India Go to Jinnah, Mohammed Ali (1876–1948) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Religion Islam British empire European empires from 1415 Asia South Asia India (the subcontinent) Europe Empires
1935	The people of the rich mining district of the Saar vote to merge with Germany Go to Saarland in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Germany George Gallup founds the American Institute of Public Opinion and becomes the pioneer of modern polling techniques Go to Gallup, George Horace (1901–1984) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Social and domestic Society North America United States
1938	March 9: the Austrian chancellor, Kurt von Schuschnigg, defies Hitler by announcing a referendum on his country's independence Go to Schuschnigg, Kurt von (b. 14 Dec. 1897) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Austria April 24 - the Sudeten German National Socialist Party demands secession from Czechoslovakia, in keeping with Hitler's plans for the Sudetenland Go to Sudetenland in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s Second World War 20th century Politics War Bohemia Czech Republic Wars since 1900 Voters in both Germany and Austria give massive approval for Hitler's annexation of Austria Go to Anschluss in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Austria Germany
1939	Robert Menzies, leader of the United Australia Party, becomes Australia's prime minister Go to Menzies, Sir Robert Gordon (1894–1978) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s 20th century Politics Australia and Oceania Australia September 4 - Jan Smuts defeats J.B.M. Hertzog in a vote on neutrality, and takes Hertzog's place as South African premier Go to Smuts, Jan Christiaan (1870–1950) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1930s Second World War 20th century Politics War Africa South Africa South Africa (republic) Wars since 1900
1940	October - President Roosevelt, campaigning for a third term, assures Americans that he will not send their sons to fight in Europe's war Go to Roosevelt, Franklin Delano (1882–1945) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1940s Second World War 20th century Politics War US presidents Rulers and politicians Wars since 1900 North America United States November 5 - F.D. Roosevelt wins an unprecedented third US presidential term, albeit it with a considerably reduced share of the vote Go to Roosevelt, Franklin D. (1882–1945) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1940s Second World War 20th century Politics War US presidents Rulers and politicians Wars since 1900 North America United States
1941	Australian prime minister Robert Menzies is forced to resign after losing the confidence of his cabinet Go to Menzies, Sir Robert Gordon (b. 20 Dec. 1894) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1940s 20th century Politics Australia and Oceania Australia
1944	November 7 - President Roosevelt, although seriously ill, is elected for a fourth term with Harry S. Truman as his vice-president Go to Roosevelt, Franklin Delano (1882–1945) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1940s Second World War 20th century Politics War US presidents Rulers and politicians Wars since 1900 North America United States
1945	February 11 - Stalin, at Yalta, promises free elections in post-war eastern Europe Go to Yalta conference (11 February 1945) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1940s Second World War 20th century Politics Communism War Cold war Europe Russia Wars since 1900 July 26 - the British electorate dismisses Winston Churchill, giving the Labour party and Clement Attlee a landslide victory Go to Attlee, Clement, 1st Earl Attlee (1883–1967) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1940s Second World War 20th century Politics War British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars since 1900 Britain July 26 - Winston Churchill, losing the postwar general election in Britain, has to yield his seat at Potsdam in mid-conference to Clement Attlee Go to Potsdam Conference (July–August 1945) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1940s Second World War 20th century Politics War Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Germany Rulers and politicians Wars since 1900 Britain
1946	The Communists become the largest party in Czechoslovakia, winning 38% of the vote in a free election Go to Czechoslovakia in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1940s 20th century Politics Communism War Bohemia Cold war Czech Republic Wars since 1900
1947	An election campaign in Poland, marked by violence and the use of terror, brings a Communist landslide Go to Poland in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1940s 20th century Politics Communism War Cold war Europe Poland Wars since 1900 Muslims proclaim an independent state in west Kashmir, defying the wishes of the maharaja Go to Kashmir in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1940s 20th century Politics Religion Islam Asia South Asia India (the subcontinent) India (republic)
1948	Daniel Malan becomes South Africa's prime minister after his National Party wins the general election Go to Malan, Daniel François (1874–1959) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1940s 20th century Politics Africa South Africa South Africa (republic)
1949	The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is set up by the USA and Canada, together with Britain and other European countries, for purposes of collective security Go to NATO in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1940s 20th century Politics War Cold war Wars since 1900 North America Canada United States
1951	The Twenty-Second Amendment to the US Constitution prevents anyone being elected for more than two presidential terms Go to Twenty‐second Amendment in The Oxford Companion to the Supreme Court of the United States (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1950s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States
1955	Richard Daley begins a powerful and often unscrupulous reign of 22 years as mayor of Chicago Go to Daley, Richard Joseph, Snr. (15 May 1902) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1950s 20th century Politics North America United States
1958	French citizens approve the new constitution proposed by de Gaulle, thus introducing the Fifth Republic Go to Fifth Republic, French in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Politics (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1950s 20th century Politics Europe France
1960	Kenneth Kaunda is elected president of UNIP, a new party fighting for an independent Northern Rhodesia Go to Kaunda, Kenneth David (1924– ) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics British empire European empires from 1415 European empires in Africa Africa South Africa Europe Empires The Quiet Revolution in Quebec begins with the election of Jean Lesage and the Liberals Go to Quiet Revolution in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics North America Canada Kenyatta, still in prison, is elected leader of KANU, a new political party in Kenya Go to Kenya in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics British empire European empires from 1415 European empires in Africa Africa East Africa Europe Empires
1961	Joshua Nkomo founds ZAPU, the Zimbabwe African People's Union, in the British colony of Southern Rhodesia Go to Nkomo, Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo (b. 17 June 1917) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics British empire European empires from 1415 European empires in Africa Zimbabwe Africa South Africa Europe Empires
1962	Students for a Democratic Society publish in Michigan The Port Huron Statement, a seminal text of the New Left Go to New Left. in The Oxford Companion to United States History (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics North America United States A massive yes vote in a referendum is immediately followed by French recognition of Algerian independence Go to Algeria in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics European empires from 1415 European empires in Africa Africa North Africa Europe Empires The veteran left-wing politician Victor Haya is elected president of Peru but is thwarted by a coup led by General Ricardo Godoy Go to Haya de la Torre, Víctor Raúl (22 Feb. 1895) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics Latin America Peru South America Ruhollah Khomeini, a leading ayatollah in Qom, denounces the Shah of Iran and declares a fatwa against his regime Go to Khomeini, Ayatollah Ruhollah (1900–1989) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics Religion Islam Asia Central Asia Iran (Persia)
1963	Ayatollah Khomeini is arrested in Qom, and imprisoned for eight months in Tehran, after instigating riots against the Shah Go to Khomeini, Ayatollah Ruhollah (1900–1989) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics Religion Islam Asia Central Asia Iran (Persia) Robert Mugabe and Ndabaningi Sithole split from ZAPU to found ZANU, the Zimbabwe African National Union Go to ZANU in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics European empires from 1415 European empires in Africa Zimbabwe Africa South Africa Europe Empires
1966	Plaid Cymru sends its first MP to Westminster when Gwynfor Evans wins a Carmarthen by-election Go to Plaid Cymru in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Wales British Isles Europe Britain
1967	Congress passes a Freedom of Information Act, giving the public an important new right in the USA Go to Freedom of Information Act (1966) in The Oxford Companion to United States History (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics Social and domestic Society North America United States
1968	Robert Kennedy enters the race for the Democratic presidential nomination Go to Kennedy, Robert F. (1925–68) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States The Parti Québécois is formed in Canada by René Lévesque Go to Parti Québécois in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics North America Canada The first civil rights march in northern Ireland, in Derry, is halted by the police with batons and water cannon Go to Northern Ireland, Civil Rights Association of in The Oxford International Encyclopedia of Peace (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1960s 20th century Politics Social and domestic Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Northern Ireland British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Ireland Society Rulers and politicians Britain
1970	The Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) is formed in northern Ireland as a coalition of Catholic nationalists and civil-rights campaigners Go to Social Democratic and Labour Party in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Ireland Britain The outgoing Pakistan government, led by Yahya Khan, rejects the election result and sends troops to East Pakistan Go to Yahya Khan, Agha Mohammed (b. 4 Feb. 1917) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics Persecution and repression War Asia South Asia India (the subcontinent) Pakistan
1971	Ian Paisley and others in northern Ireland form the Democratic Unionist Party, as the intransigent wing of Ulster Unionism Go to Democratic Unionist Party in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Northern Ireland British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Ireland Rulers and politicians Britain
1972	Jean-Marie Le Pen founds a neo-Fascist party in France, the National Front Go to Front National in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics Europe France Five burglars are arrested breaking into the Democratic National Committee HQ at the Watergate office building in Washington Go to Watergate Scandal in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States The Washington Post publishes the first report that the Watergate break-in was linked to Richard Nixon's re-election campaign Go to Watergate Scandal in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States
1973	The Watergate scandal claims its first senior victims with the resignation of two of Nixon's closest advisers, Bob Haldeman and John Ehrlichman Go to Watergate affair (1972–74) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States Likud is formed in Israel as an alliance of right-wing parties Go to Likud (‘Union’), Israel in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics Asia West Asia Palestine and Israel
1974	The US Supreme Court orders President Nixon to hand over White House tapes of conversations relevant to Watergate Go to Watergate Scandal in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States The House Judiciary Committee takes the first steps in the process of impeaching President Nixon, citing obstruction of justice Go to Nixon, Richard Milhous (1913–1994) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States Faced by the prospect of impeachment over Watergate, President Nixon resigns Go to Nixon, Richard Milhous (1913–1994) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States President Ford pardons ex-president Nixon for his part in the Watergate affair, thus removing the possibility of criminal charges Go to Nixon, Richard Milhous (1913–1994) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States The SNP achieves a surge in Scottish nationalism, winning eleven seats at Westminster on 30% of the Scottish vote Go to Scottish National Party in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Scotland British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1976	Portugal adopts a democratic constitution after 43 years of dictatorship Go to Portugal in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics Europe Portugal
1977	Jacques Chirac, leader of a recently formed neo-Gaullist party, is elected mayor of Paris Go to Chirac, Jacques René (b. 29 Nov. 1932) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics Europe France
1979	An Islamic revolution forces the Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, to flee from Iran Go to Pahlavi, Muhammad Reza (1919–80) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1970s 20th century Politics Religion Islam Asia Central Asia Iran (Persia)
1980	The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerges in India from previous Hindu nationalist groups and soon acquires a large following Go to Bharatiya Janata Party in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics Asia South Asia India (the subcontinent) India (republic) Lech Walesa is elected chairman of the newly formed Polish trade union movement Solidarnośc (Solidarity) Go to Wałesa, Lech (1943– ) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics Communism War Cold war Europe Poland Wars since 1900
1981	The SDP hives off from Britain's Labour party – and seven years later merges with the Liberals to form the Liberal Democrats Go to Social Democratic Party in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain
1984	Republican activist Gerry Adams is elected president of Sinn Fein Go to Adams, Gerard (b. 6 Oct. 1948) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics Northern Ireland British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
1985	Civilian rule is restored in Brazil after Tancredo Neves and Jose Sarney are elected president and vice-president Go to Brazil in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics Latin America Brazil South America
1986	Corazón Aquino, widow of the assassinated Benigno Aquino, stands against Ferdinand Marcos in the Philippines presidential election Go to Aquino, Corazón Maria (25 Jan. 1933) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics Asia East Asia Southeast Asia
1988	The Liberals and the SDP merge in Britain to form a single political party, the Liberal Democrats Go to Liberal Democrats in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain Aung San Suu Kyi returns to Burma from England, to look after her dying mother Go to Aung San Suu Kyi (1945– ) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics Asia East Asia Southeast Asia
1989	Students, teachers and workers gather in large numbers in Beijing's Tiananmen Square to demand democratic reform Go to Tiananmen Square in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics Protest and rebellion Asia East Asia China Uruguay enjoys the first entirely free election since the years of military dictatorship Go to Uruguay in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics Latin America South America Elections in Poland bring Solidarnośc nation-wide success, and the party is soon at the head of a coalition government Go to Solidarity in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics Communism War Cold war Europe Poland Wars since 1900 With the fall of Pinochet, Chile returns eagerly to democracy - electing a Christian Democrat, Patricio Aylwin, as president Go to Chile in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics China Latin America Chile South America Alexander Dubcek is Speaker of Parliament and Václav Havel is President in the new democratic government of Czechoslovakia Go to Havel, Václav (5 Oct. 1936) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1980s 20th century Politics Communism War Bohemia Cold war Czech Republic Wars since 1900
1990	The Sandinistas lose the Nicaraguan presidential election, with Daniel Ortega beaten into second place by Violeta Chamorro Go to Chamorro, Violeta Barrios de (b. 18 Oct. 1929) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Latin America Central America The aged president, Félix Houphouët-Boigny, wins the Ivory Coast's first democratic elections Go to Houphouët‐Boigny, Félix (b. 18 Oct. 1905?) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Africa West Africa Aung San Suu Kyi's party wins an overwhelming victory in Burma's general election but the military refuse to hand over power Go to Myanmar in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Asia East Asia Southeast Asia Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi transforms Inkatha into a political party, the Inkatha Freedom Party Go to Inkatha Freedom Party in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Africa South Africa South Africa (republic) Mary Robinson is elected president of the republic of Ireland, the first woman to hold the post Go to Robinson, Mary (21 May 1944) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics British Isles Europe Ireland Britain Solidarnośc leader Lech Walesa wins Poland's first free presidential election Go to Wałęsa, Lech (29 Sept. 1943) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Communism War Cold war Europe Poland Wars since 1900
1991	The incumbent president, Mathieu Kérékou, loses in Benin's first democratic election Go to Benin, Republic of in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Africa West Africa Former Communist Boris Yeltsin is elected leader of the Russian Soviet Socialist Republic Go to Yeltsin, Boris (1931–2007) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Communism Europe Russia Aung San Suu Kyi wins the Nobel Peace Prize for her courageous fight for democracy in Burma Go to Aung San Suu Kyi (1945– ) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Asia East Asia Southeast Asia Multiparty elections in Zambia result in a massive defeat for the long-serving president, Kenneth Kaunda Go to Kaunda, Kenneth David (28 Apr. 1924) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Africa South Africa A new party, the Islamic Salvation Front, seems certain to win the Algerian election – until the army intervenes Go to Islamic Salvation Front in The Oxford Dictionary of Islam (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Religion Islam Africa North Africa
1992	After a single term as president of the Philippines, Corazon Aquino returns to private life Go to Aquino, Corazón Maria (25 Jan. 1933) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Asia East Asia Southeast Asia Betty Boothroyd, a Labour MP, becomes the first woman Speaker of Britain's House of Commons Go to Boothroyd, Betty (b. 1929) in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles Europe Britain
1993	Apartheid ends in South Africa, after two thirds of white voters vote for its abolition in a referendum Go to apartheid in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Africa South Africa South Africa (republic) Guinea's first democratic election is won by the incumbent president, Lansana Conté Go to Guinea in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Africa West Africa The separatist Bloc Québecois becomes (until losing seats in the next election) the official Opposition in the Canadian parliament Go to Bloc Québécois in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics North America Canada Media magnate Silvio Berlusconi founds Forza Italia as a new centre-right political party in Italy Go to Berlusconi, Silvio (29 Sept. 1936) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Europe Italy
1994	South Africa's first non-racial election is won by the ANC with 63% of the vote Go to ANC in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Africa South Africa South Africa (republic) Hastings Banda, president since independence in 1964, is defeated in Malawi's first multiparty elections Go to Banda, Hastings Kamuzu (1902) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Africa South Africa President Clinton's bill to provide health insurance for all US citizens is defeated in Congress Go to Clinton, Bill (1946– ) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States Tony Blair wins the leadership of the Labour party, and sets about establishing what he calls New Labour Go to Blair, Tony (1953– ) in Who's Who in the Twentieth Century (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1995	Ethiopians have their first experience of democracy in a free presidential election, won by Meles Zenawi Go to Zenawi, Meles (1995) in Encyclopedia of Africa (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Africa East Africa Ethiopia
1996	The guerrilla groups in Guatemala sign a treaty which provides for them to become a recognized political party Go to Guatemala in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Latin America Central America
1997	In Canada's general election the Bloc Québecois lose their position as official opposition to the Liberal government Go to Bloc Québécois in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics North America Canada Mexico's ruling party, the PRI, loses control of the lower house for the first time in nearly seventy years Go to Mexico in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Latin America Central America Mexico In referenda held by the new Labour government, Scotland votes conclusively for devolution but Wales is lukewarm Go to Scotland in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Scotland Wales British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1998	A proposed referendum on northern Irish issues is accepted by all the relevant political parties in what becomes known as the Good Friday Agreement Go to Good Friday Agreement (10 April 1998) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Northern Ireland British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Ireland Rulers and politicians Britain In the referendum to endorse the Good Friday Agreement, the terms are accepted by majorities in both the republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland Go to Good Friday Agreement (10 April 1998) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Northern Ireland British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Ireland Rulers and politicians Britain The Ulster Unionist leader David Trimble becomes First Minister of the newly convened Northern Ireland Assembly Go to Trimble, David (b. 15 Oct. 1944) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Northern Ireland British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
1999	The Scottish parliament and the Welsh assembly hold their first elections, both narrowly won by Labour Go to Scottish Parliament in A Dictionary of Law (7 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Scotland Wales British Isles British prime ministers - from 1830 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain A plebiscite in East Timor delivers a vote for independence from Indonesia Go to Timor Leste in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 1990s 20th century Politics Asia East Asia Southeast Asia
2000	Angry crowds drive Slobodan Milosevic from power after he denies defeat in the Serbian election Go to Milosevic, Slobodan (20 Aug. 1941) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Europe
2003	The 'Rose Revolution' in Georgia forces the resignation of president Eduard Shevardnadze after rigged elections Go to Shevardnadze, Eduard Amvrosievich (25 Jan. 1928) in A Dictionary of Political Biography (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Europe Ian Paisley's hard-line Democratic Unionist Party wins in elections to the suspended Northern Ireland Assembly Go to Democratic Unionist Party in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Northern Ireland British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
2004	Prime minister Viktor Yanukovych is at first declared winner of a rigged (and subsequently annulled) presidential election in Ukraine Go to Yushchenko, Viktor (b. 23 Feb 1954) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Europe Tests reveal that Viktor Yushchenko, opposition candidate in Ukraine's presidential election, has been poisoned with dyoxin Go to Yushchenko, Viktor (b. 23 Feb 1954) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Europe Opposition candidate Viktor Yushchenko easily wins the re-run of the rigged presidential election in the Ukraine Go to Yushchenko, Viktor (b. 23 Feb 1954) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Europe
2005	The first general election is held in Iraq, for 275 members of a permanent Iraqi General Assembly Go to Iraq in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Mesopotamia Asia West Asia Iraq Aung San Suu Kyi remains under house arrest nearly 20 years after winning Burma' only free election Go to Aung San Suu Kyi (1945– ) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Asia East Asia Southeast Asia
2006	The Republicans lose control of both houses of the US Congress in an electoral backlash against the Iraq War Go to Republican Party in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics War US presidents Rulers and politicians North America United States
2007	Elections to the Northern Ireland Assembly bring the same result as in 2003, with extremist rivals DUP and Sinn Fein the dominant parties Go to Northern Ireland Assembly in A Dictionary of Law (7 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Northern Ireland British Isles Europe Ireland Britain Long-term enemies Ian Paisley (DUP) and Gerry Adams (Sinn Fein) agree to share power in a reconvened Northern Ireland Assembly Go to Northern Ireland Assembly in A Dictionary of Law (7 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Great Britain - from 1707 United Kingdom - from 1801 Northern Ireland British Isles Europe Ireland Britain After ongoing daily escalation of the protest in Burma, nation-wide, the junta issues orders for arrests and military intervention Go to Myanmar in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Persecution and repression
2009	Iran's declaration that its presidential election has been a landslide victory for Mahmoud Ahmadinejad brings vast crowds of protesters onto the streets Go to Ahmadi Nejad, Mahmoud (b. 1956) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Asia Central Asia Iran's Guardian Council decrees that Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's election was valid, amid increasingly strong crackdown on any sign of dissent Go to Ahmadi Nejad, Mahmoud (b. 1956) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Asia Central Asia
c. 2010	A Tunisian street vendor in Tunis, Mohamed Bouazizi, sets himself on fire in Sidi Bouzid in protest at harassment and confiscation of his wares by local officials Go to Tunisia in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa Demonstrators gather in the streets of Sidi Bouzid as news of Mohamed Bouazizi's action spreads, in a mood that sparks the Tunisian revolution and the 'Arab Spring' Go to Tunisia in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa
2011	Protests begin in Jordan, causing King Abdullah to form a new cabinet on February 1 with the brief to introduce reform and steps towards democracy Go to Abdullah II bin Al Hussein (b. 30 Jan. 1962) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Asia West Asia Ben Ali, in control of Tunisia for 23 years, resigns and flees to Saudi Arabia after four weeks of mounting tension and violence in the streets Go to Ben Ali, Zine el‐Abidine (b. 3 Sept. 1936) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa Inspired by the example of Tunisia, a day of revolt is organized in Egypt, in protest against police methods and to coincide with National Police Day Go to Egypt in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa Egypt Recognizing the use made by demonstrators of Facebook and Twitter, the Egyptian government shuts down internet access for most of the country Go to Facebook in A Dictionary of Computing (6 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa Egypt Protests begin in Syria, rising over the following months to the level of an uprising as demands for Bashar al-Assad to resign are met with increasing brutality Go to Assad, Bashar al- (b. 11 Sept. 1965) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Asia West Asia Lebanon and Syria A major demonstration is held in Sana'a, the capital of Yemen, demanding the resignation of the president, Ali Abdullah Saleh Go to Yemen in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Asia West Asia On what becomes known as the 'Friday of Anger' hundreds of thousands demonstrate in Egypt after Friday prayers, a developing tradition in the Arab Spring Go to Egypt in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa Egypt The results are published of the Southern Sudan referendum on independence, with more than 98% voting in favour of the break from Sudan Go to South Sudan in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Africa North Africa After nearly three weeks of escalating violence in Egypt, President Mubarak announces his resignation Go to Mubarak, Hosni (1928– ) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa Egypt Demonstrations over the arrest of a human rights lawyer in Benghazi, Libya's second city, are violently broken up by the police. Go to Benghazi in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa Police in Bahrain make a night raid on peaceful protesters encamped in the capital city's Pearl Roundabout, killing three Go to Bahrain in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Asia West Asia The demands of protesters in Bahrain extend to include the overthrow of the monarchy, after a second day of government forces using live rounds Go to Bahrain in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Asia West Asia A demonstration in Rabat demands that the king of Morocco relinquish some of his powers is followed by King Mohammed VI announcing on television plans for reform Go to Mohammed VI (b. 21 August 1963) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa Benghazi, by now firmly in the control of rebels, becomes the temporary headquarters of Libya's newly formed National Transitional Council Go to Benghazi in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa King Mohammed VI of Morocco announces in a televised address that he is taking steps to introduce constitutional reforms Go to Mohammed VI (b. 21 August 1963) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates agree to send troops and police to strengthen government forces in Bahrain Go to Bahrain in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Asia West Asia Muammar Gaddafi makes a rousing speech on Libyan TV saying that his people will seek out traitors and infidels in Benghazi 'alley by alley' to deal with them Go to Gaddafi, Muammar al- (b. Sept. 1942) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa The United Nations Security Council passes Resolution 1973, authorizing the international community to use force to protect civilians in Libya Go to United Nations Security Council in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa Muammar Gaddafi's tanks are on the verge of reaching Benghazi to enter the city and carry out his promised cleansing of the city of rebel traitors Go to Gaddafi, Muammar al- (b. Sept. 1942) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa The first air strikes by NATO, authorized by the UN, destroy sufficient of Gaddafi's armour just in time to save Benghazi from a proclaimed massacre of rebel civilians Go to Gaddafi, Muammar al- (b. Sept. 1942) in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Africa North Africa A court in Cairo finds Hosni Mubarak guilty of damaging the national economy by severing internet connections on January 26 and fines him about US $34 million Go to Mubarak, Hosni (1928– ) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Africa North Africa Egypt President Saleh is flown to Egypt for medical treatment, after being wounded on the previous day by an explosion in the government compound in Sana'a Go to Yemen in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Asia West Asia Following the referendum result earlier in the year, South Sudan secedes from the Sudan to become the independent Republic of South Sudan Go to South Sudan in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Africa North Africa The commander of the rebel forces in Libya, Abdel Fattah Younes, is assassinated in mysterious circumstances while in rebel hands Go to Libya in A Dictionary of Contemporary World History (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Terrorism and assassination Africa North Africa In response to the continuing uprising the Syrian government launches an attack with tanks against several of the country's cities, in particular Hama Go to Hama in The Concise Dictionary of World Place-Names (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Protest and rebellion Asia West Asia Lebanon and Syria Hosni Mubarak appears in court on a hospital bed on the first day of his trial on the capital charge of premeditated killing of peaceful protesters Go to Mubarak, Hosni (1928– ) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 21st century Politics Persecution and repression Africa North Africa Egypt

Jump to a year:

BCE CE

Oxford University Press

PRINTED FROM OXFORD REFERENCE (www.oxfordreference.com). (c) Copyright Oxford University Press, 2023. All Rights Reserved. Under the terms of the licence agreement, an individual user may print out a PDF of a single entry from a reference work in OR for personal use (for details see Privacy Policy and Legal Notice).

date: 20 May 2025

Browse All

Browse All

Share Link

Timeline: Democracy and dissent

Browse All

Browse All

Recently viewed (0)

Recently viewed (0)

Share Link

Timeline: Democracy and dissent