A century ago, the world was a very different place, yet the events of that time shaped the world we know today. From groundbreaking discoveries to moments of triumph and tragedy, these stories captivated people across the globe. Here are 10 major events from 1925 that left a lasting impact and continue to fascinate us to this day.
1. Nellie Tayloe Ross Takes Office
On January 5, 1925, Nellie Tayloe Ross shattered barriers as the first female governor in U.S. history, leading Wyoming with determination. Just days later, Ma Ferguson of Texas joined her in the history books. These groundbreaking women proved that leadership knows no gender, paving the way for future generations.
2. Tri-State Tornado
On March 18, 1925, the deadliest tornado in U.S. history tore through Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana. With winds estimated at 300 mph, it left a devastating trail of destruction, killing 695 people and injuring over 2,000. Murphysboro, Illinois, suffered the heaviest toll. Spanning 219 miles, its path remains unmatched in tornado history.
3. World’s First Television Invention
In 1926, John Logie Baird made history by transmitting the first human images via television in London. This groundbreaking achievement revolutionized communication and entertainment, laying the foundation for modern broadcasting. Baird’s invention showcased the potential of visual media to connect and inform the world like never before.
4. The Charlevoix–Kamouraska Earthquake
On February 28, 1925, a powerful 6.2 magnitude earthquake shook northeastern North America. Centered near the Saint Lawrence River, it caused severe damage in Quebec’s Charlevoix-Kamouraska region and was felt as far as Virginia and the Mississippi River. Villages endured destruction, while 55 aftershocks prolonged the chaos, making it one of Canada’s most significant seismic events of the 20th century.
5. English Explorer Percy Fawcett Disappears
On May 29, 1925, English explorer Percy Fawcett sent his last telegram to his wife before disappearing in the Amazon rainforest. He was searching for the fabled “Lost City of Z.” His mysterious fate has sparked curiosity for decades, making it one of history’s most intriguing unsolved mysteries.
6. The Scopes “Monkey Trial”
In July 1925, the Scopes Trial gripped America. Teacher John T. Scopes was fined $100 for teaching evolution, breaking Tennessee’s “Butler Act.” The case sparked a clash between traditionalist William Jennings Bryan and progressive Clarence Darrow, igniting a nationwide debate over science and religion that still resonates today.
7. Malcolm Campbell Breaks Speed Barriers
On July 21, 1925, Malcolm Campbell became the first person to drive over 150 mph. At Pendine Sands, Wales, he reached an average speed of 150.33 mph in a Sunbeam 350HP car, making history in the motorsport world.
8. The Locarno Treaties
Signed on December 1, 1925, the Locarno Treaties aimed to secure peace in Europe after World War I. Germany, France, and others agreed to respect borders and resolve disputes peacefully. The agreements brought hope and led to Germany joining the League of Nations in 1926. However, they collapsed in 1936 when Germany remilitarized the Rhineland.
9. Mussolini Declares His Dictatorship
On January 3, 1925, Benito Mussolini delivered a speech marking the start of his dictatorship in Italy. As the founder of Fascism, Mussolini consolidated power through strict control, silencing opposition, and outlawing strikes. His rule would shape Italy’s future, influencing the rise of fascist movements worldwide during the interwar years.
Sources:
1925 Tri-State tornado
1925 Charlevoix–Kamouraska earthquake
Nellie Tayloe Ross
