As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, it is worth reflecting on the past to extract lessons for a more promising future. The quote “What’s past is prologue,” attributed to William Shakespeare in his play The Tempest, resonates deeply as we consider the political and social upheaval of a century ago. The year 1926 stands out for its significant events, mirroring some of the challenges faced by contemporary society.
Political Unrest and Change in 1926
The political landscape in 1926 was tumultuous, particularly in Europe. Protests, coups, and government overthrows were commonplace, setting a stark contrast to the relative stability the United States has experienced in recent years. Notably, the United Kingdom was paralyzed by a general strike that dominated headlines for months. Meanwhile, nations such as Poland, Portugal, and Lithuania saw their governments toppled, while Benito Mussolini solidified his grip on power in Italy despite numerous assassination attempts.
In the United States, Calvin Coolidge served as president, overseeing a period of economic prosperity with an unemployment rate of just 1.8%. The national debt stood at $19.6 billion, and tax rates were declining. This economic climate allowed for a reduction in debt, a theme echoed by former President Donald Trump in his discussions about the future.
Significant Cultural and Technological Milestones
Beyond politics, 1926 was also notable for cultural and technological advancements. The year marked the birth of iconic figures such as Queen Elizabeth II, Fidel Castro, and Marilyn Monroe (born Norma Jeane Mortenson). In addition, United Airlines made history as the first scheduled commercial airline in the United States, offering a glimpse into the future of air travel.
Innovations in technology were also significant. Robert H. Goddard launched the first liquid fuel rocket, reaching a height of 41 feet in a flight that lasted just 2.5 seconds. This marked a crucial step in the development of the American space program. Similarly, John Logie Baird demonstrated the first television, an invention that would transform media consumption, though today’s programming quality might prompt some to question the long-term impact of this innovation.
The year also witnessed landmark achievements in sports. Gertrude Ederle became the first woman to swim across the English Channel, while Babe Ruth made headlines as the first player to hit three home runs in a single game against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Despite these advancements, 1926 was not without its tragedies. A devastating Category 4 hurricane struck Miami, resulting in hundreds of fatalities and damages estimated at $100 million. The Havana-Bermuda hurricane that followed claimed over 600 lives, highlighting the destructive potential of natural disasters without modern discussions of climate change.
As we approach 2026, the lessons from a century ago remind us that while technology evolves, human nature and the societal challenges we face remain consistent. The importance of learning from history cannot be overstated, especially as we navigate a world marked by both political and environmental uncertainties.
Looking back at the events of 1926 provides a valuable perspective as we consider our path forward. The responsibility lies with current and future generations to shape a future informed by the lessons of the past.
Cal Thomas, a columnist for Tribune Content Agency, can be reached at [email protected]. His latest book, A Watchman in the Night: What I’ve Seen Over 50 Years Reporting on America, is published by HumanixBooks.
