The year 1904 was marked by significant political tensions, technological advancements, cultural shifts, and scientific discoveries. It was a year of increasing global engagement, particularly for the United States, as it asserted its role on the world stage.
Politics and International Relations
February 8 – 9: Russo-Japanese War Begins: Following years of rising tensions over control of Manchuria and Korea, the Japanese launch a surprise attack on the Russian fleet at Port Arthur, initiating the Russo-Japanese War. This conflict would have significant ramifications for the balance of power in East Asia and expose weaknesses in the Tsarist regime.
February 23: Panama Canal Zone Acquisition: The United States formally takes control of the Panama Canal Zone after the Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty is ratified. This marked a major step in the construction of the Panama Canal and asserted American influence in Central America.
April 8: Entente Cordiale: France and the United Kingdom sign the Entente Cordiale, a series of agreements that settled many long-standing colonial disputes. While not a formal alliance, it paved the way for closer cooperation between the two nations in the years leading up to World War I.
June 16: Partition of Bengal: Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India, announces the controversial partition of Bengal. This decision, ostensibly for administrative efficiency, was widely seen as a British attempt to weaken the Indian nationalist movement.
November 8: US Presidential Election: Theodore Roosevelt wins a landslide victory in the United States presidential election, defeating Alton B. Parker. Roosevelt's victory cemented his position as a progressive reformer and confirmed the Republican Party's dominance.
Science and Technology
May 22: Wright Brothers Patent: Wilbur and Orville Wright receive a patent for their flying machine, the Wright Flyer. This invention fundamentally altered transportation and laid the groundwork for the development of the aviation industry.
John Ambrose Fleming Invents the Vacuum Tube Diode: This invention was a critical component in the development of radio technology, enabling the amplification of electrical signals.
Culture and Society
July 1: Opening of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition (St. Louis World's Fair): This international exposition in St. Louis, Missouri, celebrated the centennial of the Louisiana Purchase and showcased technological advancements, cultural exhibits, and architectural marvels. It was a major event in United States history and popular culture.
J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan Premieres: The play Peter Pan, or the Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up by Scottish playwright J.M. Barrie premiered in London, captivating audiences with its themes of childhood, fantasy, and adventure.
The first modern Olympic Games in the United States: Held in St. Louis as part of the World's Fair.
Other Notable Events
January 15: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Founded: Alpha Kappa Alpha, the first Greek-letter sorority established by African-American college women, is founded at Howard University in Washington, D.C.
1904 was a pivotal year, marked by growing international tensions, rapid technological change, and cultural milestones that continue to resonate today. The United States played an increasingly important role in shaping the events of this era.