1. Innovations and Technology:
- The early 20th century witnessed significant technological advancements. Automobiles became more accessible, and the popularity of the telephone grew rapidly.
- The aviation industry was in its early stages, and the first successful transatlantic flight took place in 1919.
- Electricity was becoming more widespread, transforming domestic life with appliances like electric irons, vacuum cleaners, and early refrigeration.
2. Fashion Trends:
- Women's fashion in 1914 was characterized by the hobble skirt, which restricted a woman's stride.
- Corsets were still commonly worn, but there was a growing movement towards more comfortable clothing, including looser skirts and sportswear.
- Men's fashion featured tailored suits, often in dark colors, and hats were a key accessory.
3. Culture and Entertainment:
- The early 1900s saw a surge in the popularity of silent films. Charlie Chaplin and Mary Pickford were some of the most famous silent film stars of the time.
- Vaudeville and burlesque shows were popular forms of live entertainment. Music halls and cabarets thrived, showcasing performances by musicians, dancers, and comedians.
- Reading was a prominent leisure activity, with novels by authors such as Mark Twain, H.G. Wells, and E.M. Forster gaining popularity.
4. Social Changes:
- Suffrage movements gained momentum in various countries, advocating for women's right to vote.
- The early 20th century saw advancements in labor rights and workers' movements. Labor strikes and protests were common.
- Urbanization was accelerating, leading to the growth of large cities and the emergence of urban slums.
5. World War I:
- The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria in June 1914 triggered a series of events that culminated in the outbreak of World War I in August 1914.
- The war had a profound impact on life, with millions of men mobilized for combat and the mobilization of resources and industries for the war effort.
- The conflict brought societal changes and challenges, including the participation of women in the workforce and the rise of nationalism.
Overall, life in 1914 was marked by technological progress, evolving fashion, cultural shifts, and the growing unrest that led to the outbreak of World War I, altering the course of human history.