Historical Events tagged with "atlanta"

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.

Space Exploration

Space Shuttle Atlantis Launches on STS-27

December 2nd, 1988 36 years ago

The Space Shuttle Atlantis was launched on STS-27, a classified mission for the United States Department of Defense, from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission particularly showcased improvements in shuttle technology and was intended to deploy a highly secretive payload into orbit. Undeniably thrilling for the U.S. military, the mission was pivotal during a period of significant national security emphasis, with details kept largely under wraps due to the sensitive nature of the project.

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Economics & Industry

New Coke launched, backlash ensues swiftly

April 23rd, 1985 40 years ago

Coca-Cola introduced a reformulated beverage, dubbed 'New Coke', aiming to achieve a sweeter taste similar to rival Pepsi. The change invited fierce criticism from loyal customers, many expressing outrage over the discontinuation of the original formula. Within days, protests emerged and public sentiment turned heavily against the new product. Realizing the backlash was overwhelming, Coca-Cola reversed course and reinstated its classic formula, rebranded as 'Coca-Cola Classic' in under three months after an unprecedented public outcry.

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Sports & Recreation

Brawl Erupts Between Braves and Padres Players

August 12th, 1984 40 years ago

An intense brawl broke out during a game at the Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium between the Atlanta Braves and San Diego Padres, capturing the attention of fans. Tensions escalated in the bottom of the seventh inning after a controversial call by the umpires concerning a play at the plate. Players from both teams charged onto the field, leading to a chaotic scene as punches were thrown and benches cleared, showcasing the fierce competitive spirit of the players involved. The altercation involved several players before it was finally broken up by coaches and stadium security.

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Technology & Innovation

CNN Launches as First 24-Hour News Channel

June 1st, 1980 45 years ago

Cable News Network (CNN) revolutionized broadcasting by offering the first 24-hour news channel, launching on June 1, 1980. Founded by American media proprietor Ted Turner and Reese Schonfeld, CNN aimed to provide constant news coverage, challenging traditional news programming. Its first broadcast included a report on the attempted assassination of President Ronald Reagan, successfully demonstrating the potential of round-the-clock news reporting. CNN's accessible format quickly gained popularity, influencing news reporting styles around the world.

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Health & Medicine

CDC Identifies Bacterium Behind Legionnaires' Disease

January 18th, 1977 48 years ago

Scientists at the CDC announced a breakthrough in understanding Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by the newly identified bacterium, Legionella pneumophila. This bacterium was found to thrive in warm water environments, which raised concerns about public health, particularly in settings with large water systems. The discovery was crucial for preventing outbreaks that had previously caused illness and fatalities, particularly among elderly individuals. It opened avenues for research and increased awareness about the risks associated with this type of infection.

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Health & Medicine

First Electron Micrograph of Ebola Virus Captured

October 13th, 1976 48 years ago

Dr. F. A. Murphy successfully captured the first electron micrograph of the Ebola virus at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This event marked a significant advancement in virus visualization, enabling better understanding and research into the deadly virus. The electron micrograph provided vital insights that would help scientists in studying the Ebola virus and its implications for public health.

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Sports & Recreation

Hank Aaron Breaks Babe Ruth's Home Run Record

April 8th, 1974 51 years ago

Hank Aaron hit his 715th career home run off pitcher Al Downing at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium, surpassing Babe Ruth's long-standing record of 714 home runs. The historic home run, achieved in front of a packed crowd, was celebrated as a major milestone in baseball history. Aaron's achievement not only secured his place in baseball lore but also highlighted issues of race and pressure he faced while chasing the record.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Lonesome Cowboys Raid sparks Gay Liberation Front

August 5th, 1969 55 years ago

A police raid on the Lonesome Cowboys bar in Atlanta led to significant unrest and the formation of the Georgia Gay Liberation Front. This raid was part of a broader pattern of targeting LGBTQ establishments during a time of active discrimination. Combining activism and support, local LGBTQ individuals and allies rallied together, fueled by the frustrations of the incident.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Supreme Court Upholds Commerce Clause for Civil Rights

December 14th, 1964 60 years ago

The Supreme Court ruled on a landmark case regarding the use of the Commerce Clause by Congress to prohibit discrimination in public accommodations. The Heart of Atlanta Motel, which refused service to African Americans, challenged the federal government's authority. The Court decided that Congress could legislate against racial discrimination under its power to regulate interstate commerce, marking a significant step forward for civil rights and reinforcing federal intervention in social justice issues.

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