Daily Facts about 1909

1909

Chemist and engineer Leo Baekeland announces the development of Bakelite, one of the earliest synthetic plastics, with a wide range of applications.

1909

The First Woolworth's store opens in Utica, New York, introducing the concept of the five-and-dime store.

1909

During the Nimrod Expedition, led by Ernest Shackleton, explorers reach their southernmost point in Antarctica, coming within 97 miles of the South Pole.