1. 1939 – Spanish Civil War Ends
On March 28, 1939, the Spanish Civil War came to an end with the fall of Madrid to the forces of General Francisco Franco. The conflict had begun in 1936 as a struggle between the Republicans, who supported the democratic Spanish Republic, and the Nationalists, led by Franco, who wanted to establish a military dictatorship. The war was marked by extreme violence, atrocities, and significant international involvement, including support for the Republicans from the Soviet Union and for the Nationalists from Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy. After nearly three years of brutal fighting, Franco’s victory established a dictatorship that lasted until his death in 1975. The war’s outcome had profound effects on Spain’s political landscape and served as a prelude to World War II.
2. 1939 – Nazi Germany Occupies Czechoslovakia
On the same day, March 28, 1939, Nazi Germany completed its occupation of Czechoslovakia following the dismemberment of the country earlier that month. This occupation marked a significant escalation in Adolf Hitler’s aggressive expansionist policies in Europe. The Germans established the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia, placing the Czech lands under direct control while Slovakia became a nominally independent puppet state. This event shocked the international community and demonstrated the failure of appeasement policies pursued by Britain and France. It also set the stage for the outbreak of World War II later that year.
3. 1930 – Cities of Constantinople and Angora Renamed
On March 28, 1930, the Turkish government officially renamed the city of Constantinople to Istanbul and Angora to Ankara. This was part of a broader series of reforms under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk aimed at modernizing and secularizing Turkey. Renaming Constantinople was symbolic, marking the end of the city’s long-standing association with the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Ankara was made the capital of the new Republic of Turkey in 1923, replacing Istanbul. These changes reflected the country’s shift toward a new national identity and a break from its imperial past.
4. 1931 – The Scottsboro Boys Trial Begins
On March 28, 1931, the infamous trial of the Scottsboro Boys began in Alabama, USA. Nine African American teenagers were falsely accused of raping two white women on a train, sparking a landmark legal battle against racial injustice. The case exposed deep-seated racism in the American legal system and galvanized civil rights organizations like the NAACP and the Communist Party USA. Despite weak evidence and contradictory testimonies, the defendants were initially convicted and sentenced to death. The trials and subsequent appeals highlighted issues of due process and equal protection under the law.
5. 1939 – The First Nylon Bristles Used in Toothbrush
On March 28, 1939, the first toothbrush with nylon bristles was introduced by the DuPont company. This innovation replaced the traditional animal hair bristles, which were less hygienic and durable. Nylon bristles were more resilient, easier to clean, and less likely to harbor bacteria, revolutionizing dental hygiene. The new toothbrush quickly gained popularity and became a staple in households worldwide. This advancement marked a significant step forward in personal care products.
6. 1939 – The National Gallery of Art Established in Washington, D.C.
On March 28, 1939, the United States Congress officially established the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. The institution was founded to house and display a national collection of fine art for public enjoyment and education. The gallery was initially funded by a generous donation from Andrew W. Mellon, a prominent financier and art collector. It serves as a cultural hub and a symbol of the nation’s commitment to the arts. Over the years, the gallery has expanded its collections to include masterpieces from various periods and regions.
7. 1939 – The Battle of Nanchang Begins
On March 28, 1939, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, the Battle of Nanchang commenced in China. This battle was part of Japan’s efforts to consolidate control over Chinese territory amid ongoing resistance. Nanchang, a strategic city, was fiercely contested due to its military and logistical importance. The battle involved significant casualties and demonstrated the brutal nature of the conflict between Chinese Nationalist forces and the Japanese army. It exemplified the larger struggle that would continue until the end of World War II.
8. 1939 – The Establishment of the Slovak Republic
On March 28, 1939, the Slovak Republic was declared as a nominally independent state under the influence of Nazi Germany. This followed the dismemberment of Czechoslovakia and was part of Hitler’s strategy to control Central Europe. The Slovak government collaborated with the Nazis and participated in the war against the Allies. The creation of the Slovak Republic marked a significant reshaping of the region’s political map and had lasting repercussions during and after the war. It also highlighted the complex interplay of nationalism and foreign domination.
9. 1939 – The First Commercial Flight of the Douglas DC-4
On March 28, 1939, the Douglas DC-4 made its first commercial flight. This aircraft was a major advancement in aviation technology, offering greater range, speed, and passenger comfort compared to previous models. It played a crucial role in expanding commercial air travel and was widely used by airlines around the world. The DC-4 also saw extensive military service during World War II. Its introduction marked a significant milestone in the development of modern air transportation.
10. 1939 – The Opening of the New York World’s Fair
Though the main opening was in April, preparations and key events related to the 1939 New York World’s Fair took place by March 28. The Fair was designed to showcase the theme “The World of Tomorrow,” emphasizing innovation, technology, and progress. It attracted millions of visitors and featured futuristic exhibits, including early televisions and automobiles. The event symbolized hope and optimism on the eve of World War II. It left a lasting legacy on design, culture, and public imagination.