Today in History: 8 March

1. International Women’s Day: A Legacy of Empowerment

Established in the early 20th century, International Women’s Day (IWD) traces its origins back to the labour movement in the United States. On 8 March 1908, 15,000 women marched through the streets of New York City, demanding shorter working hours, better pay, and the right to vote. Over the ensuing years, the concept of an International Women’s Day took root, evolving into a global day of recognition and celebration.

The theme of IWD varies year by year, addressing pressing issues faced by women globally, from gender parity to ending violence against women. IWD serves as both a reminder of the progress made and the challenges that still lie ahead. Today, the day is celebrated with events, seminars, and campaigns worldwide, all aiming to create a more equitable and just society.

2. The St. Petersburg Uprising (1917)

Another critical event that took place on this day was the beginning of the February Revolution in Russia in 1917 (Julian calendar; it would be 23 March in the Gregorian calendar). It was characterized by a series of protests in Petrograd (now St. Petersburg) against the Russian Empire, leading to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II and the end of the Romanov dynasty. This revolution would later set the stage for the more significant Bolshevik Revolution, which changed the face of global politics by establishing the world’s first communist state.

3. The Launch of the RMS Titanic (1912)

On 8 March 1912, the RMS Titanic was completed and launched in Belfast. Designed to be the pinnacle of luxury and safety, it tragically sank on its maiden voyage in April of the same year after colliding with an iceberg. The disaster resulted in the deaths of over 1,500 passengers and crew, making it one of the deadliest maritime disasters in history. The Titanic’s sinking had far-reaching effects, leading to significant improvements in maritime safety protocols and regulations.

4. The Announcement of the DNA Double Helix (1953)

In the realm of science, 8 March 1953 marks the day when Francis Crick and James Watson deduced the double helix structure of DNA. Their discovery, later published in Nature in April, revolutionized the field of genetics, providing insights into the molecular mechanisms of heredity, variation, and gene expression. Their work laid the foundation for numerous breakthroughs in medicine and biology, including the Human Genome Project.

The Feminist Revolution: A Closer Look at International Women’s Day

Of all the events that occurred on this day, perhaps none have had as profound and widespread an impact as the initiation of International Women’s Day. While its roots trace back to labour movements and suffrage campaigns in the US, the idea of an international day dedicated to women’s rights quickly gained traction across the world.

The first official International Women’s Day was organized by Clara Zetkin in 1911 and was celebrated in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. The event was marked by rallies and demonstrations advocating for women’s rights to work, vote, and be trained. Over time, the observance of IWD spread worldwide, with various nations embracing the day and its principles.

In many ways, IWD encapsulates the broader feminist movement’s goals, emphasizing equal rights, opportunities, and respect for women in all spheres of life. The day’s observance has evolved over time, reflecting changing societal norms and the feminist movement’s various waves. For instance, in the 1960s and 70s, the day became intertwined with the broader feminist movement that emphasized bodily autonomy and deconstructed traditional gender roles. Today, the day focuses on diverse issues, from highlighting the gender wage gap to addressing violence against women, to promote women in STEM fields.

Reflections on 8 March

The events of 8 March underscore the multifaceted nature of human history. From the empowerment of women to significant scientific discoveries, to political revolutions, this day serves as a microcosm of humanity’s broader journey.

While International Women’s Day is perhaps the most widely recognized event on this day, the other occurrences — like the St. Petersburg uprising or the unveiling of the DNA structure — highlight humanity’s constant evolution. Each event, in its own way, has contributed to shaping the modern world, pushing societies towards progress, and ensuring that past mistakes aren’t repeated.

The beauty of a day like 8 March lies in its diverse tales of bravery, innovation, and revolution. Whether it’s the women marching for their rights or scientists working tirelessly in their labs, each story is a testament to human perseverance and the indomitable spirit to bring about change. As we commemorate these events, it’s crucial to take inspiration from them and strive towards a world marked by equity, understanding, and constant growth.