Historical Events tagged with "addis ababa"

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.

Transportation & Infrastructure

Boeing 737 MAX Crashes in Ethiopia

March 10th, 2019 6 years ago

Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, a Boeing 737 MAX, crashed shortly after takeoff from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, leading to the deaths of all 157 passengers and crew onboard. This incident followed a similar crash of Lion Air Flight 610, raising significant concerns over the safety of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, ultimately resulting in the grounding of all 387 units of this model worldwide.

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Politics & Government

African Union Established in Addis Ababa

July 9th, 2002 22 years ago

The African Union was established in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, aiming to promote unity and cooperation among African states. It replaced the Organisation of African Unity, which had been founded in 1963, focusing on the promotion of peace and development across the continent. Thabo Mbeki, then President of South Africa, was elected as the inaugural chairman of the organization, marking a significant shift in African governance. The AU was created at a time when African nations were grappling with challenges such as political instability, economic issues, and the need for social cohesion.

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Politics & Government

Fall of Addis Ababa and Derg Regime's End

May 28th, 1991 33 years ago

Addis Ababa was captured by the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), signaling the collapse of the Derg regime and bringing an end to the prolonged Ethiopian Civil War. The EPRDF's victory was marked by widespread jubilation among supporters, as it concluded years of brutal conflict and dictatorial rule. The city became the focal point of the conflict as various factions vied for control, impacting national stability and governance.

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Politics & Government

Execution of Ethiopian Political Leaders

November 23rd, 1974 50 years ago

Sixty Ethiopian politicians, aristocrats, and military officers were executed by the provisional military government as a means to eliminate opposition and consolidate power during a period of political upheaval. This mass execution took place following a coup that had overthrown Emperor Haile Selassie in September 1974, leading to significant changes in the Ethiopian political landscape under the Derg regime. The executed individuals were accused of crimes against the state, contributing to a climate of fear and repression as the new military rulers implemented radical reforms.

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Politics & Government

Haile Selassie Overthrown by Military Coup

September 12th, 1974 50 years ago

Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia was deposed by a military coup led by the Derg, a committee of military officers. This coup ended his reign of 58 years, which began in 1916. The Derg's uprising was largely fueled by widespread discontent over poverty, land reform, and the perception of a corrupt imperial regime. Selassie's deposition marked a significant shift in Ethiopia's political landscape, leading the country towards a socialist-oriented government. The coup took place in Addis Ababa, the capital, and set into motion a series of events that would affect the nation for decades.

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Accidents & Tragedies

East African Airways Flight 720 Rejected Takeoff Crash

April 18th, 1972 52 years ago

East African Airways Flight 720 was a scheduled flight from Addis Ababa to Nairobi. On this flight, the aircraft attempted a rejected takeoff at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, leading to a crash that resulted in the deaths of 43 people. The incident raised significant concerns over aviation safety in the region and highlighted issues related to pilot training and aircraft performance.

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Politics & Government

Formation of the Organisation of African Unity

May 25th, 1963 61 years ago

The Organisation of African Unity (OAU) was created in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on May 25, 1963, with the aim of promoting unity and cooperation among African nations. Leaders from 32 independent African states convened to discuss common challenges facing the continent, focusing on decolonization, economic development, and regional security. The establishment of the OAU was largely driven by the desire to combat colonialism, ensure African sovereignty, and enhance economic integration among its member states.

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Politics & Government

Coup against Haile Selassie in Ethiopia

December 13th, 1960 64 years ago

While Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia was visiting Brazil, a coup was launched by his Imperial Bodyguard in Addis Ababa. The bodyguard seized the capital and declared Selassie deposed, naming his son, Crown Prince Asfa Wossen, as the new emperor. This scenario unfolded rapidly, demonstrating the precarious balance of power within the Ethiopian monarchy amid significant political tensions.

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Politics & Government

Haile Selassie Returns to Addis Ababa

May 5th, 1941 83 years ago

Emperor Haile Selassie returned to Addis Ababa after a period of exile following the Italian invasion of Ethiopia. His return was celebrated as a victory over Fascism, culminating in a grand reception as he entered the city. Ethiopians united in joy, marking this moment as their Liberation Day. The liberation from foreign occupation brought a renewed sense of national pride and unity among the Ethiopian people.

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