On This Day in History
The latest news, updates and opinions on On This Day in History from the expert team here at MoneyWeek
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4 January 1884: Founding of the Fabian Society
Features Rapid economic change in the 19th century didn't benefit everybody. On 4 January 1884, the Fabian Society was established in London to redress the balance.
By Dr Matthew Partridge Last updated
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4 January 1698: the Palace of Whitehall is destroyed by fire
Features On this day in 1698, a basket of linen caught fire burning to the ground one of Europe's most complex and beautiful royal residences – the Palace of Whitehall.
By Chris Carter Last updated
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2 January 1980: National steelworkers' strike
Features For the first time in over 50 years, Britain’s steelmaking industry saw the start of a national strike on this day in 1980, as unions demanded a 20% pay rise.
By Ben Judge Last updated
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24 December 1955: Norad begins tracking Santa
Features On this day in 1955, the North American Aerospace Defense Command began tracking Santa Claus as he sped around the world delivering presents.
By Ben Judge Last updated
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23 December 1913: The US Federal Reserve is created
Features After much debate, Woodrow Wilson finally signed the bill that would create the US Federal Reserve on this day in 1913.
By Chris Carter Last updated
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23 December 1834: Joseph Hansom patents the Hansom cab
Features The 19th-century forerunner of the London black cab, architect Joseph Aloysius Hansom patented his Hansom cab on this day in 1834.
By Chris Carter Last updated
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22 December 1965: 70mph speed limit introduced
Features On this day in 1965, a “temporary” 70mph speed limit was introduced on all unregulated roads in Britain by the Minister of Transport. The limit was soon made permanent.
By Ben Judge Last updated
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22 December 1973: Opec more than doubles the price of oil
Features On this day in 1973 Opec, the oil price cartel, more than doubled the price of oil from $5.12 a barrel to $11.65.
By moneyweek Last updated
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21 December 1844: The Rochdale Pioneers open for business
Features On this day in 1844, the Rochdale Pioneers opened a little shop on Toad Lane in Rochdale, Lancashire, which became a model for co-operatives around the world.
By Chris Carter Last updated
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