The year 1928 saw significant developments across political, scientific, cultural, and technological spheres, shaping the course of the 20th century.
Politics and International Relations
Kellogg-Briand Pact Signed: August 27th marked the signing of the Kellogg-Briand Pact by fifteen nations in Paris, later joined by many others. This international agreement, spearheaded by US Secretary of State Frank Billings Kellogg and French Foreign Minister Aristide Briand, aimed to outlaw war as an instrument of national policy. While ultimately unsuccessful in preventing future conflicts, it represented a landmark effort towards international cooperation and pacifism.
Chinese Civil War Intensifies: The ongoing conflict between the Nationalist government led by Chiang Kai-shek and the Chinese Communist Party intensified throughout the year, setting the stage for decades of turmoil in China. Chinese Civil War.
Herbert Hoover Elected President of the United States: In November, Herbert Hoover, the Republican candidate, won a landslide victory over Democrat Al Smith in the US presidential election. Hoover's campaign emphasized continued prosperity under Republican leadership, a promise that would soon be tested by the Great Depression. Al Smith, as a Catholic, faced bigotry and negative sentiment from rural, Protestant voters.
Science and Technology
Alexander Fleming Discovers Penicillin: Although not fully realized until later, Alexander Fleming's accidental discovery of penicillin in September 1928 at St. Mary's Hospital in London was a groundbreaking event in medical science. He observed that Penicillium notatum mold inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus bacteria. Penicillin.
First Transatlantic Autogyro Flight: Spanish engineer Juan de la Cierva flew his autogyro, a type of rotorcraft, across the Atlantic Ocean, demonstrating a new approach to aviation technology. Autogyro.
Culture
Walt Disney's Steamboat Willie Released: November 18th saw the premiere of Steamboat Willie, a short animated film featuring Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. This cartoon, notable for being one of the first synchronized sound cartoons, became a massive success and launched Walt Disney and his characters to international fame, marking a major milestone in animation history. Walt Disney.
Bertolt Brecht's The Threepenny Opera Premieres: August 31st marked the premiere of Die Dreigroschenoper (The Threepenny Opera) by Bertolt Brecht with music by Kurt Weill in Berlin. This satirical play, based on The Beggar's Opera by John Gay, became a critical and commercial success. Bertolt Brecht.
Andy Warhol Born: August 6th marks the birth of Andy Warhol, leading figure in the Pop art movement. Andy Warhol.
Economics and Business
Peak of the Roaring Twenties in the United States: The year 1928 represented a high point for the "Roaring Twenties" in the United States. Economic prosperity was widespread, fueling consumerism and optimism. However, this prosperity was built on shaky foundations, with increasing speculation in the stock market.
Chrysler Corporation Acquires Dodge Brothers: This acquisition further solidified Chrysler's position as a major player in the automotive industry.
Disasters
Okeechobee Hurricane: In September, the Okeechobee Hurricane devastated parts of Florida, particularly around Lake Okeechobee. It resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread destruction, highlighting the vulnerability of coastal areas to powerful storms. This event remains one of the deadliest hurricanes in United States history.