Historical Events tagged with "Mexico"

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.

Accidents & Tragedies

Oil Pipeline Explosion in Tlahuelilpan, Mexico

January 18th, 2019 6 years ago

An explosion occurred at a fuel pipeline in Tlahuelilpan, Hidalgo, Mexico, resulting in 137 fatalities and numerous injuries. The incident took place at a site where locals had gathered to collect gasoline from a leaking pipeline. Authorities attributed the explosion to illegal tapping of the pipeline, an issue caused by rampant fuel theft in the region. Emergency services responded to the disaster, and the area was subsequently cordoned off for investigations.

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Natural Disasters

Hurricane Patricia Strikes Mexico with Record Winds

October 23rd, 2015 9 years ago

Hurricane Patricia reached landfall on the Pacific coast of Mexico, registering the lowest sea-level pressure ever recorded in the Western Hemisphere, alongside the highest non-tornadic sustained winds. The hurricane caused significant devastation, resulting in the deaths of at least 13 individuals and damages exceeding $280 million. Its rapid intensification to an unprecedented category 5 storm prompted widespread evacuations and a state of emergency across the affected regions, including the states of Jalisco and Colima.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Mass Kidnapping in Iguala, Mexico

September 26th, 2014 10 years ago

Forty-three students were forcibly taken by police in Iguala, Mexico, while they were en route to a protest. The students, from Ayotzinapa Rural Teachers' College, aimed to raise awareness about educational rights and social justice. Their disappearance sparked national outrage and calls for accountability. Allegations surfaced linking local authorities to organized crime. This incident highlighted longstanding issues of corruption and violence in Mexico.

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Natural Disasters

Hurricane Wilma Achieves Record Intensity

October 19th, 2005 19 years ago

Hurricane Wilma reached unprecedented intensity with a minimum pressure of 882 mb, making it the most powerful Atlantic hurricane ever recorded. Formed in the Caribbean Sea, Wilma rapidly intensified, showcasing the potential for severe weather phenomena. Its bone-chilling winds and torrential rains affected numerous areas, highlighting the impact of warm sea surface temperatures. The storm ultimately made landfall in Mexico, leading to widespread damage and a humanitarian response.

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Politics & Government

Griselda Álvarez Becomes First Female Governor

November 1st, 1979 45 years ago

Griselda Álvarez was elected as governor of Colima, becoming the first woman to hold such a position in any Mexican state. Her election marked a significant milestone in Mexican politics, as Álvarez campaigned on a platform focused on social issues, education, and local development. The election underscored a growing interest in women's leadership roles within the country and set a precedent that would influence future generations of female politicians.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Western Airlines Flight 2605's Fatal Landing

October 31st, 1979 45 years ago

Western Airlines Flight 2605 crashed while attempting to land at Mexico City International Airport, resulting in the deaths of 73 individuals. The aircraft, a Boeing 720-047B, was approaching the airport during adverse weather conditions, which contributed to the accident. The flight had originated from Los Angeles, California, and was carrying 88 passengers and crew. Despite the crew's efforts to divert and land safely, the plane struck obstacles on the ground before colliding with the airport perimeter fence, ultimately leading to a catastrophic fire.

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Sports & Recreation

Bob Fitzsimmons Captures Heavyweight Title

February 21st, 1896 129 years ago

Bob Fitzsimmons fought Peter Maher for the World Heavyweight Championship in a match promoted in America but held in Mexico. Fitzsimmons, an Englishman raised in Australia, faced Irish boxer Maher in a battle that showcased skill and perseverance. The fight demonstrated the rising popularity of boxing in the United States during this period, and Fitzsimmons' victory marked a significant achievement in boxing history. His win not only earned him the championship title but also established him as one of the premier boxers of his time.

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Politics & Government

Execution of Maximilian I of Mexico

June 19th, 1867 157 years ago

Maximilian I, the Emperor of the Second Mexican Empire, was executed by a firing squad in Querétaro, Mexico. He had been captured by republican forces after a lengthy conflict known as the Reform War. Following his arrest, Maximilian faced a military trial, which concluded with the decision for his execution. Despite offers for exile, he chose to face the consequences of his rule, ultimately resulting in his death on this day.

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Military & Warfare

American Victory at Cerro Gordo Opens Invasion Path

April 18th, 1847 177 years ago

The Battle of Cerro Gordo, fought in April 1847, was a pivotal encounter during the Mexican-American War. General Winfield Scott led American forces against the Mexican army commanded by General Antonio López de Santa Anna. The American troops executed a surprise attack, utilizing the terrain to their advantage, ultimately leading to a decisive victory for the U.S. The strategic significance of this battle lay in its outcome, which cleared the way for further advances into Mexican territory, including the capture of Mexico City. Cerro Gordo's victory not only showcased American military strategy but also marked a turning point in the war.

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