DailyTimeCapsule brief
December 9, 1937
On December 9, 1937, the conflict in China escalated dramatically as approximately 300 Chinese soldiers were killed on a peak surrounded by fires set by Japanese forces during the ongoing Battle of Nanking. The Japanese military had reportedly sustained heavy losses as well, with envoys fleeing the city amidst fierce fighting. Reports indicated that Japanese forces were attempting to reestablish control by shifting operations upstream, while negotiations for a truce were rumored amidst the chaos. Meanwhile, in the United States, Chairman Jones urged President Roosevelt to consider increasing freight rates for railroads, asserting that a subsidy might be the only alternative. This discussion came at a time when the country's economic stability was a pressing issue. Concurrently, a stevedore strike tied up 117 ships in major ports including Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Boston, as workers demanded a wage increase amidst failed negotiations with merchants and miners.
Key developments
-
On December 9, 1937, fierce fighting erupted near Nanking, leading to the deaths of 300 Chinese soldiers trapped on a peak surrounded by flames. Japanese forces utilized machine guns to decimate those trying to escape the onslaught. Meanwhile, truce negotiations and heavy losses prompted envoys to evacuate the city.
-
On December 9, 1937, Chairman Jones advocated for an increase in freight rates during a White House conference, suggesting that a subsidy might be necessary for the railroads' survival. He expressed confidence that President Roosevelt would not abandon the railroad industry. Additionally, Hookins discussed the costs incurred by the House for a potato feast, amounting to $52 for butter.
-
STEVEDORE STRIKE TIES UP 117 SHIPS; Baltimore Walkout Spreads to Philadelphia, Boston and Providence 3,000 OUT, UNION SAYS Wage Parleys Break Down Between Men and Merchants and Miners Line 4,000 Cargo Held Up Men Ask 5 Cents More an Hour URCES SHIP MEDIATION Kennedy Wants Federal Arbitration of Seamen's Demands
