Historical Events tagged with "1960s"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Successful March from Selma to Montgomery

March 25th, 1965 59 years ago

Civil rights activists led by Martin Luther King Jr. completed a significant four-day, 50-mile march from Selma to the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery. This march aimed to highlight the struggle for voting rights for African Americans and was marked by the determination of thousands who participated in the event. Activists sought to draw national attention to the civil rights movement and called for an end to racial discrimination at the polls.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Leftist Uprising Against British Colonialism

March 5th, 1965 60 years ago

A leftist movement erupted in Bahrain, reflecting growing discontent against British colonial rule. The protests arose from a coalition of leftist groups, seeking to end foreign dominance and promote national sovereignty. Demonstrations, which included large rallies and clashes with police, highlighted the demands for political reforms and the expulsion of British forces. The uprising was notable for its grassroots support, mobilizing diverse segments of society, and marked a significant moment in Bahrain’s political history.

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Politics & Government

Coup Attempt Against Nguyễn Khánh's Junta

February 19th, 1965 60 years ago

Colonel Phạm Ngọc Thảo, a known communist spy, along with Generals Lâm Văn Phát and Trần Thiện Khiêm, both of whom shared Catholic faith, plotted a coup against the military junta led by Buddhist Nguyễn Khánh. Tensions were high in South Vietnam, with divisions between religious factions exacerbating political instability. The coup was motivated by a desire to align the government with Catholic leadership, reflecting the complex interplay of faith and politics amidst the ongoing Vietnam War. The conspirators aimed to take over the armed forces on behalf of the Viet Minh.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Malcolm X's Visit to Smethwick

February 12th, 1965 60 years ago

Malcolm X visited Smethwick, near Birmingham, after the racially-charged 1964 UK general election, which highlighted issues of race and immigration. His visit aimed to inspire local Black communities and promote civil rights. Malcolm X's presence emphasized the connection of racial struggles in the US to those faced by Black Britons, igniting discussions on race and equality in the UK.

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Politics & Government

Founding of the People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan

January 1st, 1965 60 years ago

The People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan was founded in Kabul, marking a significant shift in Afghan politics. Seeking to represent the interests of a new socio-political class, it aimed to promote a socialist agenda and mobilize support among urban workers and intellectuals. This party emerged in response to the changing political landscape of Afghanistan and the influence of communist ideologies. Leaders like Nur Muhammad Taraki were instrumental in its establishment, promoting a vision of modernity and reform during a time of increasing unrest in the region.

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Politics & Government

Che Guevara Addresses the UN General Assembly

December 11th, 1964 60 years ago

Che Guevara delivered a notable speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, addressing issues of imperialism, war, and economic disparity. This speech illustrated Guevara's vision of revolution and solidarity among oppressed nations. He emphasized the necessity for cooperation among states to overcome significant challenges, and his remarks were received with intense interest and debate among delegates and the global media.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Berkeley Students Arrested in Free Speech Protest

December 4th, 1964 60 years ago

Students at the University of California, Berkeley staged a sit-in at the administration building to protest a ban on demonstrations. Over 800 students were arrested following the peaceful takeover, which highlighted their demands for free speech rights on campus. The protest was a response to the UC Regents' prohibition against political activity on university property.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge Opens to Traffic

November 21st, 1964 60 years ago

The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, connecting Staten Island and Brooklyn in New York City, opened to traffic and became the longest suspension bridge span in the world at that time. Designed by engineer Othmar Ammann, the bridge spans 13,700 feet across the Narrows and features a main span of 4,260 feet. Its opening significantly improved transportation in the New York metropolitan area, facilitating trade and commuting between boroughs. The bridge was named after the Italian explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano, who was the first European to explore the New York Harbor.

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Politics & Government

King Saud Deposed by Family Coup

November 2nd, 1964 60 years ago

King Saud of Saudi Arabia was removed from power by a coup led by members of the royal family, particularly his half-brother, Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The coup emphasized the internal divisions within the ruling house and signaled a shift in Saudi governance. Faisal, who had previously served as the crown prince and had considerable support, was named king immediately following Saud's deposition.

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