What happened on August 4th?

Good morning readers! 

On this day, Great Britain declared war on Germany after its invasion of Belgium, violating Belgian neutrality as per the Treaty of London (1839). Meanwhile, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed US neutrality to maintain peace and trade.

But there's more to discover! From the founding of a crucial US maritime service to a notorious crime, here's what else happened on August 4th throughout history:

🌍1914: Great Britain Entered World War I and the US Proclaimed Neutrality in World War I

On August 4, 1914, the geopolitical landscape of the early 20th century was irrevocably altered when Great Britain declared war on Germany, thus entering World War I. This declaration followed Germany's violation of Belgian neutrality by invading Belgium as part of its strategic plan to quickly defeat France. The invasion of Belgium, a country guaranteed neutrality by Britain, compelled the British government to act on its treaty obligations. The British Empire's entry into the war marked the beginning of a global conflict that led to major battles fought across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

The decision to enter the war was influenced by a combination of strategic interests and a sense of moral duty. Britain’s alliance with France and Russia through the Triple Entente made it imperative to respond to the aggression of the Central Powers. The war quickly escalated into a complex and protracted struggle, with Britain playing a crucial role in the Allied Powers' military and naval operations.

On the same day, across the Atlantic Ocean, the United States, under President Woodrow Wilson, declared its neutrality. The U.S. aimed to remain impartial, reflecting a widespread sentiment among Americans who wished to avoid the entanglements of European conflicts. Wilson’s proclamation was motivated by the belief that the U.S. could best serve global peace by staying out of the war and focusing on diplomatic efforts. The neutrality was also influenced by the diverse origins of American citizens, many of whom had ties to the warring nations, which made the decision to remain neutral a complex but strategic choice.

Despite this official stance, American economic interests and diplomatic pressures would eventually draw the United States into the war. The unrestricted submarine warfare by Germany and the Zimmermann Telegram, which proposed a German-Mexican alliance against the U.S., were critical factors that shifted public opinion and policy. By April 1917, the U.S. had entered World War I, aligning with the Allied Powers and contributing to the eventual defeat of the Central Powers. This entry marked a significant turning point in the war, influencing its outcome and shaping the post-war world order.

Read more in What Caused World War 1? Political, Imperialistic, and Nationalistic Factors and our June 28th newsletter. 

⚔️1578: The Portuguese Armies of King Sebastian Invaded Morocco 

Determined to reclaim lost Christian territories, particularly in North Africa where Portuguese influence had waned due to the rise of powerful Islamic states and local resistance, King Sebastian of Portugal led an expedition to Morocco. His forces fought Sultan Abd al-Malik's army in the Battle of Alcácer Quibir. Despite initial confidence, the Portuguese were outmaneuvered and overwhelmed. King Sebastian died in the battle, leading to a catastrophic defeat that decimated the Portuguese nobility. This loss triggered a succession crisis, resulting in a dynastic union with Spain under King Philip II, which lasted until 1640.

🤝1717: A Friendship Treaty Was Signed between France and Russia

Amidst the shifting alliances and power struggles of early 18th-century Europe, France and Russia sought to fortify their positions against mutual adversaries. Seeking to strengthen their positions against common enemies, France and Russia forged an alliance through a Friendship Treaty. This treaty enhanced diplomatic and military cooperation between the two powerful nations. The agreement, negotiated by Tsar Peter the Great and Regent Philippe II of Orléans, aimed to counterbalance the influence of the Habsburgs and the Ottoman Empire in Europe.

⚓1790: Alexander Hamilton Established the Revenue Marine Service

Faced with rampant smuggling that threatened the nation's revenue, Alexander Hamilton, the Secretary of the Treasury, created the Revenue Marine Service. This service aimed to enforce tariff laws, protect national revenue, and ensure maritime safety. Hamilton's initiative provided the fledgling United States with its first naval force, essential for patrolling the coastlines and directing ships to designated ports of entry. 

📖1944: Anne Frank Was Captured

The Gestapo raided the secret annex in Amsterdam where Anne Frank's family had hidden for over two years to escape the Nazis. Betrayed by an unknown informant, they were arrested and deported to concentration camps. Only Otto Frank, Anne's father, survived. Anne and her sister Margot died of typhus in Bergen-Belsen in early 1945. Anne’s diary, preserved by family friend Miep Gies, became a seminal account of the Holocaust, providing a deeply personal perspective on Jewish persecution during World War II. Read more in

Echoes: How Anne Frank’s Story Reached the World and our June 25th newsletter.

🕊️1964: Slain Civil Rights Workers Found

The bodies of James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner were found in an earthen dam near Philadelphia, Mississippi. They had been working to register African American voters during "Freedom Summer" and were abducted and murdered by the Ku Klux Klan on June 21, 1964. The FBI's "Mississippi Burning" investigation revealed local collusion with the Klan. 

🛰️2007: The U.S. Space Probe Phoenix Was Launched

NASA launched the Phoenix Mars Lander, to study Martian arctic soil and climate. Phoenix aimed to find environments suitable for microbial life and investigate Mars's water history. Landing successfully on May 25, 2008, it detected perchlorate in the soil, indicating possible past liquid water.

🌟Born on This Day in History

1792: Percy Bysshe Shelley, English Poet

Percy Bysshe Shelley was a major English Romantic poet known for his radical views and lyrical mastery. His works, such as Ozymandias and Prometheus Unbound, have left a lasting impact on literature, highlighting themes of individualism, political liberty, and social justice.

1821: Louis Vuitton, French Box Maker and Businessman

Louis Vuitton was a French box maker and businessman who founded the luxury brand Louis Vuitton in 1854. He revolutionized the luggage industry with his innovative flat-topped trunks, which were lightweight, airtight, and stackable, setting the standard for modern travel.

1901: Louis Armstrong, Musician

Louis Armstrong was an iconic American jazz trumpeter and singer known for his profound influence on the genre. With his distinctive gravelly voice and virtuosic trumpet playing, Armstrong became a leading figure in jazz.

1961: Barack Obama, President of the United States

Barack Obama served as the 44th President of the United States from 2009 to 2017. He was the first African American to hold office, and his presidency was marked by significant achievements, including the Affordable Care Act and the operation that led to the death of Osama bin Laden.

💔Died on This Day in History

1875: Hans Christian Andersen, Danish Author

Hans Christian Andersen, the renowned Danish author, was best known for his fairy tales such as The Little Mermaid and The Ugly Duckling. His stories have been translated into numerous languages and continue to enchant readers around the world.

1882: Anna Murray Douglass, US Abolitionist

Anna Murray Douglass was a prominent African American abolitionist and the first wife of Frederick Douglass. She played a crucial role in aiding her husband’s escape from slavery and supported his work in the abolitionist movement throughout their marriage.

Hope you enjoyed this look back at the significant events that unfolded on August 4th. Stay curious and join me again tomorrow for more insights from the past. Have a great day!

Matt