Major Events of February 1937: Key Historical Moments from the Month
Each month is marked by defining moments that shape the course of history. Whether through political shifts, cultural movements, or world-changing events, these periods leave a lasting impression. Dive into the most important events from February 1937 and discover how they influenced the world both then and now.
Major Events of February 1937: Key Historical Moments from the Month
- 05 Feb 1937 FDR announces court-packing plan: On February 5, 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt proposed legislation to expand the U.S. Supreme Court by adding one justice for every member over the age of 70 who refused to retire, up to a maximum of six new justices. This plan aimed to secure favorable rulings for New Deal legislation but faced significant opposition and was ultimately defeated in Congress. source: history.com
- 08 Feb 1937 Battle of Jarama reaches stalemate: The Battle of Jarama, which began on February 5, 1937, continued until February 8, 1937. This conflict was an attempt by Nationalist forces to cut off Republican supply lines to Madrid by crossing the Jarama River. Despite initial successes, the battle ended in a stalemate, with both sides suffering heavy casualties and neither achieving a decisive victory. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 13 Feb 1937 Manchu Wutai Playhouse fire in Andong, China: On February 13, 1937, a devastating fire occurred at the Manchu Wutai Playhouse in Andong, China, during a Chinese New Year celebration. The blaze, which began at 7:30 PM, resulted in at least 658 fatalities among the 7,500 attendees. The fire was traced to a carelessly placed candle behind a screen, leading to a rapid spread and the collapse of a balcony minutes after ignition. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 17 Feb 1937 Golden Gate Bridge construction tragedy: On February 17, 1937, during the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge, a scaffold carrying twelve workers collapsed and fell through the safety net, resulting in the deaths of ten men. This incident marked the deadliest day in the bridge's construction, which had previously maintained a low fatality rate due to stringent safety measures. source: goldengate.org
- 21 Feb 1937 First successful flying car takes flight: On February 21, 1937, the Waterman Arrowbile, developed by Waldo Waterman, made its inaugural flight. This vehicle was designed to function both as an airplane and a road vehicle, featuring detachable wings and a propeller for ground use. Despite initial interest, the Arrowbile did not achieve commercial success, and production ceased in 1938 after only a few units were completed. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 27 Feb 1937 Battle of Jarama during Spanish Civil War: The Battle of Jarama was a significant engagement during the Spanish Civil War, fought from February 6 to February 27, 1937. It involved Republican forces attempting to halt the advance of Nationalist troops towards Madrid. The battle ended in a stalemate, with heavy casualties on both sides. source: britannica.com