1931

The Statute of Westminster was passed on December 11, 1931, establishing legislative independence for the British dominions and laying the foundation for the modern Commonwealth of Nations. This statute recognized the sovereignty of countries like Canada, Australia, and South Africa within the British Empire.

On March 3, 1931, "The Star-Spangled Banner" was officially adopted as the national anthem of the United States by a congressional resolution signed by President Herbert Hoover. The song, with lyrics by Francis Scott Key, had long been popular but was now formally recognized.

On September 21, 1931, the United Kingdom abandoned the gold standard, a monetary system in which the value of currency was directly linked to gold. This decision was made in response to the economic pressures of the Great Depression and marked a significant shift in global economic policy.