1918

Invention of the Thompson Submachine Gun

Poet involved

What happened

The Thompson Submachine Gun, developed by John T. Thompson in 1918, revolutionized warfare with its compact design and use of .45 ACP cartridges. Known colloquially as the 'Tommy Gun,' it became iconic during the Prohibition era and was favored by gangsters and law enforcement alike. Its introduction marked a significant evolution in firearm technology, influencing military and civilian weaponry for decades.

Literary impact

The invention of the Thompson submachine gun in 1918 became emblematic of Prohibition-era crime and warfare, influencing urban poets like Langston Hughes to address themes of violence and societal decay. This weapon's association with gritty realities found its way into the fabric of American poetry during tumultuous times.

Source: Wikipedia

Poets alive in 1918

216 poets

More events in 1918

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