Historical Events tagged with "armenian"

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.

Natural Disasters

Devastating 6.8 Ms Armenian Earthquake Strikes

December 7th, 1988 36 years ago

A significant earthquake measuring 6.8 Ms struck northern Armenia, with its epicenter near the city of Spitak. The earthquake caused extensive destruction, with maximum intensity reaching X on the MSK scale, which indicated devastating damage. It resulted in a staggering death toll of between 25,000 and 50,000 people, alongside injuries estimated at 31,000 to 130,000. The cities of Spitak and Leninakan were particularly hard hit, leading to significant humanitarian crises and international aid responses.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Violence Against Armenian Community in Sumgait

February 27th, 1988 37 years ago

In late February, the Armenian community in Sumgait, Azerbaijan, faced violent assaults as systemic tensions escalated. This unrest was fueled by the growing conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, where ethnic Armenians demanded independence from Azerbaijan. The culmination of hostility erupted into riots led by Azerbaijani mobs targeting Armenians, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries as well as significant property damage. Many Armenian residents fled the city amidst the chaos, seeking safety from the violence that had overtaken their neighborhoods.

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Military & Warfare

ASALA Attack at Orly Airport in Paris

July 15th, 1983 41 years ago

A violent attack at Orly Airport was perpetrated by the Armenian militant organization ASALA, resulting in eight fatalities and 55 injuries. Armed assailants stormed the terminal, instigating chaos and targeting passengers and staff. The incident drew significant attention due to its implications for international terrorism and ethnic conflict.

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Crime & Law

Bombings in Moscow Attributed to Separatists

January 8th, 1977 48 years ago

Three bombs exploded within 37 minutes in Moscow, claiming seven lives and injuring many others. The bombs were placed at various locations in the city and were linked to an Armenian separatist group advocating for independence. This attack highlighted the increasing tensions within the Soviet Union regarding ethnic nationalities seeking autonomy, specifically the Armenians who faced historical grievances.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Shavarsh Karapetyan Rescues Passengers from Trolleybus

September 16th, 1976 48 years ago

Shavarsh Karapetyan, an Armenian champion swimmer, heroically saved 20 individuals from a trolleybus that had plunged into a reservoir in Yerevan. This extraordinary act of bravery occurred when the trolleybus lost control and fell into the water, prompting Karapetyan to dive in despite the hazardous conditions. His swift actions showcased incredible swimming skills and a strong will to rescue others.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Mass Gathering for Armenian Genocide Commemoration

May 6th, 1975 49 years ago

In Beirut, a massive crowd of approximately 100,000 Armenians gathered for the commemorations of the Armenian genocide's 60th anniversary. This significant event brought together members of the Armenian community from various regions to remember and honor the victims of the genocide committed during World War I. The gathering served as a focal point for raising awareness about the Armenian plight and fostering unity among Armenians worldwide amidst a turbulent regional backdrop.

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Politics & Government

Pogrom Against Istanbul's Minorities

September 6th, 1955 69 years ago

Tensions erupted in Istanbul when a government-organized pogrom targeted Greek, Jewish, and Armenian communities. Mobs attacked homes, businesses, and synagogues, resulting in dozens of deaths. The violence was fueled by nationalist sentiments amid declining relations between Turkey and Greece, particularly concerning Cyprus. The government’s tacit support emboldened the rioters, leading to widespread unrest and property damage throughout the city.

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Politics & Government

Turkey Enacts Varlık Vergisi on Non-Muslims

November 11th, 1942 82 years ago

The Varlık Vergisi was a capital tax introduced by the Turkish parliament, primarily targeting non-Muslim citizens. Enacted amid World War II, it aimed to impose significant financial burdens on these communities, many of whom were already facing economic challenges. The unofficial intent of the tax was to diminish their economic influence and prominence, leading to widespread hardship and the eventual liquidation of many non-Muslim businesses across the country. Citizens feared this discriminatory measure, which generated significant controversy and unrest among affected populations.

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Accidents & Tragedies

The Great Fire of Smyrna Begins

September 13th, 1922 102 years ago

A catastrophic fire erupted in Smyrna amid the chaos of the Greco-Turkish War, igniting on September 13, 1922. The conflagration destroyed much of the historic city, with significant devastation occurring in the Greek and Armenian quarters. Eyewitnesses reported flames leaping high into the air, fueled by the wooden structures prevalent in the area. Thousands of residents were displaced, and many lost their lives. The fire became emblematic of the tragic end to Greek aspirations in Asia Minor during this tumultuous period, with the aftermath leading to a severe humanitarian crisis.

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