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August 22
5 moments across history
Russia Joins the World Trade Organization
On August 22, 2012, Russia became the World Trade Organization’s 156th member after nearly two decades of accession negotiations. Membership mattered because it brought Russia under WTO rules on tariffs, market access, and dispute settlement, further integrating it into global trade. The accession marked a milestone in Russia’s post-Soviet economic transition, as it had been the largest major economy still outside the organization.
Russia Joins the World Trade Organization
Brazil Declares War on the Axis
Brazil Declares War on the Axis
Year: 1942
On August 22, 1942, Brazil declared war on Germany and Italy after German submarines sank Brazilian merchant ships. The declaration brought Latin America’s largest country formally into World War II on the Allied side. It reflected growing American alignment against the Axis and led to Brazilian support in the Atlantic and combat service in Italy.
Michael Collins Killed in Ambush
Michael Collins Killed in Ambush
Year: 1922
On August 22, 1922, Michael Collins was killed in an ambush by anti-Treaty IRA forces at Béal na Bláth in County Cork. His death deprived the Irish Free State of a leading revolutionary, treaty negotiator, and military commander at a critical moment. The assassination occurred during the Irish Civil War, which followed the split over the 1921 Anglo-Irish Treaty ending the Irish War of Independence.
Japan–Korea Annexation Treaty Signed
Japan–Korea Annexation Treaty Signed
Year: 1910
On August 22, 1910, Japan compelled Korea to sign the Japan–Korea Annexation Treaty, formally transferring sovereignty to the Japanese emperor. The treaty, proclaimed on August 29, ended the Korean Empire and established direct Japanese colonial rule, which lasted until 1945. It followed years of expanding Japanese control after the Russo-Japanese War, including Korea’s forced designation as a Japanese protectorate in 1905.
Cadillac Automobile Company Founded
Cadillac Automobile Company Founded
Year: 1902
On August 22, 1902, the Cadillac Automobile Company was organized in Detroit from the remnants of the Henry Ford Company after Henry Ford’s departure. Led by engineer Henry Leland, Cadillac became known for precision manufacturing and later developed into a leading American luxury automobile brand. Its founding occurred as Detroit’s emerging motor industry expanded rapidly; Cadillac joined General Motors in 1909 and helped establish the city as an automotive center.