Major Events of April 1938: 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 April 1938 and discover how they influenced the world both then and now.

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Major Events of April 1938: Key Historical Moments from the Month


  • 01 Apr 1938 Nazi Germany bans Jewish music recordings: On April 1, 1938, Nazi Germany implemented a ban on Jewish music recordings, reflecting the regime's broader campaign against Jewish culture and influence. This action was part of the oppressive measures taken against Jewish communities during the Holocaust. source: britannica.com
  • 02 Apr 1938 Whirlaway: legendary Triple Crown champion: On April 2, 1938, Whirlaway, a thoroughbred racehorse, was celebrated for winning the Triple Crown, a prestigious achievement in horse racing. This victory solidified Whirlaway's status as one of the great racehorses in history. source: britannica.com
  • 03 Apr 1938 Battle of Gandesa during Spanish Civil War: The Battle of Gandesa occurred from April 1 to April 3, 1938, during the Spanish Civil War. Nationalist forces captured the town of Gandesa in Catalonia, leading to the capture of approximately 140 members of the International Brigades, primarily British and American fighters. This victory was part of the Nationalists' broader offensive in Catalonia. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 06 Apr 1938 Invention of Teflon: Teflon, a non-stick coating, was invented by chemist Roy Plunkett while working for DuPont. This discovery has since revolutionized cookware and various industrial applications due to its unique properties. source: britannica.com
  • 07 Apr 1938 Birth of Kofi Annan: Kofi Annan, the first sub-Saharan African to serve as Secretary-General of the United Nations, was born on April 7, 1938. He played a significant role in international diplomacy and peacekeeping. source: un.org
  • 08 Apr 1938 Chinese Victory at Taierhchwang: The Battle of Taierhchwang, fought on April 8, 1938, was a significant victory for Chinese forces against the Japanese during the Second Sino-Japanese War. This battle showcased Chinese resilience despite overwhelming odds. source: britannica.com
  • 09 Apr 1938 Tunisian Anti-Colonial Demonstration in Tunis: On April 9, 1938, a significant anti-colonial demonstration took place in Tunis, reflecting the growing nationalist sentiments against French colonial rule in Tunisia. This event was part of a broader movement for independence. source: britannica.com
  • 10 Apr 1938 Anschluss plebiscite in Austria: On April 10, 1938, a referendum was held in Austria to approve the annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany, known as the Anschluss. The official result reported 99.73% in favor, with a 99.71% turnout. However, the plebiscite was conducted under heavy Nazi propaganda, and political opponents, as well as Austrian citizens of Jewish or Romani origin, were excluded from voting. source: britannica.com
  • 11 Apr 1938 Jackie Coogan sues parents over child actor earnings: In 1938, child actor Jackie Coogan discovered that his mother and stepfather had squandered nearly all of his earnings from his film career, estimated between $3,000,000 and $4,000,000. Coogan sued them, but after legal expenses, he received only $126,000 of the remaining $250,000. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 14 Apr 1938 Roosevelt's Fireside Chat on Economic Conditions: On April 14, 1938, President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered his 12th Fireside Chat, addressing the nation about the economic recession. He discussed the causes of the 1929 economic collapse, the decline in national income, and the overproduction that led to unemployment. Roosevelt emphasized the need for joint efforts from individuals, businesses, and the government to restore economic balance. source: presidency.ucsb.edu
  • 15 Apr 1938 Birth of Claudia Cardinale: Claudia Cardinale, an Italian actress, was born on April 15, 1938, in Tunis, Tunisia. She is renowned for her roles in films such as "8½" and "The Leopard." source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 18 Apr 1938 First Superman comic published: Superman made his debut in Action Comics #1, published on April 18, 1938. This marked the beginning of the superhero genre in comic books. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 19 Apr 1938 Stanley Fish Born: Stanley Fish, an American literary theorist and legal scholar, was born on April 19, 1938, in Providence, Rhode Island. He is known for his work in reader-response criticism and his tenure as a professor at various universities. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 21 Apr 1938 Detroit Red Wings–Montreal Canadiens European Tour: On April 21, 1938, the Detroit Red Wings and Montreal Canadiens began a nine-game exhibition series in Europe, marking the first NHL games played outside North America. The opening game took place at Empress Hall in London, where the Canadiens defeated the Red Wings 5–4 in overtime. source: nhl.com
  • 26 Apr 1938 Nazi Germany's Jewish Asset Registration Order: On April 26, 1938, Nazi Germany issued the Decree for the Reporting of Jewish-Owned Property, requiring all Jews to declare assets exceeding 5,000 Reichsmarks. This measure aimed to facilitate the confiscation of Jewish wealth for the benefit of the German economy. source: encyclopedia.ushmm.org
  • 27 Apr 1938 King Zog of Albania marries Countess Geraldine: On April 27, 1938, King Zog I of Albania married Countess Geraldine Apponyi de Nagy-Appony in a civil ceremony at the Royal Palace in Tirana. The event was attended by Italian dignitaries, including Count Galeazzo Ciano, the envoy of Prime Minister Benito Mussolini. The couple had one son, Crown Prince Leka, and fled Albania following the Italian invasion in 1939. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 28 Apr 1938 Massachusetts towns disincorporated for Quabbin Reservoir: On April 28, 1938, the towns of Dana, Enfield, Greenwich, and Prescott in Massachusetts were disincorporated to create the Quabbin Reservoir, a primary water supply for the Boston area. The land from these towns was annexed to neighboring municipalities, and the area was flooded, submerging the towns. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 30 Apr 1938 Donald Bradman scores 258 against Worcestershire: On April 30, 1938, Australian cricketer Donald Bradman scored 258 runs in a match against Worcestershire, marking his third consecutive double century against the county. source: paperspast.natlib.govt.nz