Both houses of the legislature in France endorse a law establishing complete separation of church and state.

20 Aug.

Chinese nationalist leader Sun Yat-Sen issues his Three People's Principles — nationalism, democracy, and livelihood for the people — in his first public statement of his philosophy after a decade of secret activities.

1 Sept.

Alberta and Saskatchewan are made provinces of Canada.

5 Sept.

Under the terms of the Treaty of Portsmouth, brokered by President Theodore Roosevelt, Japan establishes a protectorate over Korea and is granted lease rights to Port Arthur and Sakhalin Island after its victory in the Russo-Japanese War. Roosevelt will receive the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts.

27 Sept.

Norway gains its independence from Sweden.

Oct.

Under Bolshevik leader Leon Trotsky, the first of the Russian Soviets (councils) is created in Saint Petersburg.

17 Oct.

Czar Nicholas II issues the October Manifesto, promising civil liberties and democratic institutions in Russia...