As America stands on the brink of its 250th anniversary, it becomes increasingly important to reflect on historical events that have shaped the nation. This retrospective approach is not merely an exercise in nostalgia; rather, it serves as a guide for envisioning a better future. The lessons from a century ago, particularly from the year 1926, illustrate that while technology may evolve, the fundamental nature of human society often remains unchanged.
In 1926, political turmoil swept across Europe, drawing parallels to current global unrest. The year was marked by significant protests, coups, and government changes in various countries. In Britain, a general strike brought the nation to a standstill, dominating headlines for months. Governments in Poland, Portugal, and Lithuania were overthrown, while in Italy, Benito Mussolini solidified his power amid numerous assassination attempts. Remarkably, Queen Elizabeth II and Fidel Castro were born during this tumultuous year, as was Marilyn Monroe, originally named Norma Jeane Mortenson.
Amidst this backdrop, the United States experienced relative stability under President Calvin Coolidge. With an unemployment rate of just 1.8 percent and a national debt of $19.6 billion, the booming economy allowed for significant fiscal progress. Coolidge’s administration focused on tax cuts, which contributed to a growing national wealth—a sentiment echoed by former President Donald Trump in his calls for a renewed focus on reducing national debt.
Historical Landmarks and Innovations
In 1926, real estate prices in New York City soared, with land on Broadway and Wall Street fetching record prices of $7 per square inch. This economic boom coincided with groundbreaking achievements in technology. Notably, Robert H. Goddard launched the first liquid fuel rocket in Auburn, Massachusetts, reaching a height of 41 feet in a brief 2.5-second flight. Meanwhile, John Logie Baird demonstrated the first television, an invention that has since transformed global media consumption.
The airline industry also took significant strides, as United Airlines, initially founded as Varney Air Lines, became the first scheduled commercial airline in the United States. In another landmark achievement, Gertrude Ederle became the first woman to swim across the English Channel, symbolizing not only athletic prowess but also the advancing role of women in sports.
The year was not without its tragedies. A catastrophic Category 4 hurricane struck Miami, resulting in hundreds of fatalities and damages estimated at $100 million. The aftermath of natural disasters was felt widely, with subsequent hurricanes like the Havana-Bermuda storm claiming more than 600 lives.
Cultural Shifts and Enduring Legacies
The cultural landscape of 1926 was also marked by significant events in the entertainment world. The silent film icon Rudolph Valentino passed away, prompting a massive outpouring of grief in New York City, where over 60,000 mourners attempted to pay their respects. This incident reflects the enduring fascination with celebrity culture, a phenomenon that continues to captivate audiences today.
In sports, Babe Ruth made history by becoming the first player to hit three home runs in a single game against the St. Louis Cardinals. Such moments resonate with the spirit of competition and achievement that defines American sports culture.
Examining these historical markers reveals not only the challenges and achievements of 1926 but also highlights a fundamental truth: human nature remains constant, regardless of technological advances. As America prepares to navigate its next chapter, it is essential to learn from the past while embracing change.
In conclusion, while the challenges of the coming decades may seem daunting, the lessons of history remind us that resilience and ingenuity can lead to progress. The responsibility to shape a positive future lies not only with current generations but also with those yet to come. It is imperative that they learn from the past to forge a better path forward. For insights and reflections on American history, readers can connect with Cal Thomas via email at [email protected]. Additionally, his latest book, A Watchman in the Night: What I’ve Seen Over 50 Years Reporting on America, is available from Humanix Books.
