Historical Events tagged with "baghdad"

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

Human Shields Depart for Baghdad from London

January 25th, 2003 22 years ago

A group of activists from London traveled to Baghdad to serve as human shields in opposition to the impending U.S.-led invasion of Iraq. Their mission aimed to protect key sites and civilian lives from potential bombings, advocating for peace during a time of rising tensions. This diverse group included people from various backgrounds and motivations, all unified in their commitment to preventing war. Their journey not only highlighted the global dissent against military action but also sparked a broader conversation on the ethical implications of warfare and civilian involvement.

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Military & Warfare

Smart Bombs Hit Amiriyah Shelter in Baghdad

February 13th, 1991 34 years ago

Two laser-guided bombs targeted the Amiriyah shelter in Baghdad, which was reported to be a military communications outpost. Allied forces stated it was a legitimate military target; however, over 400 Iraqi civilians were killed as they sought refuge inside. The bombing highlighted the complexities of distinguishing between military and civilian targets during conflict.

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Politics & Government

Ba'ath Party Takes Control of Iraq

July 17th, 1968 56 years ago

The Ba'ath Party seized power in Iraq, ousting President Abdul Rahman Arif. Led by Ahmed Hassan al-Bakr, this coup marked a significant shift in Iraq's governance. The coup was largely motivated by political instability and discontent with the existing regime. It led to the establishment of a new ruling authority, poised for rapid transformation in Iraqi society.

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Politics & Government

Ba'ath Party Overthrows Abd al-Karim Qasim

February 8th, 1963 62 years ago

The Ba'ath Party orchestrated a coup to overthrow Iraqi Prime Minister Abd al-Karim Qasim, marking a significant shift in Iraq's political landscape. The coup took place in Baghdad, driven by ideological differences and a desire for power. The Ba'athists sought to implement their Arab nationalist agenda and saw Qasim's policies as obstacles. The successful coup resulted in Qasim's imprisonment and later execution, affecting the course of Iraqi governance and its alignment in the broader Arab world.

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Economics & Industry

OPEC is Established in Baghdad

September 14th, 1960 64 years ago

Delegates from five countries met in Baghdad, Iraq, to establish an organization aimed at coordinating oil production and prices. This organization, known as the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), sought to unify petroleum policies among member countries. The founding nations, including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela, aimed to secure fair and stable prices for petroleum producers and ensure a constant supply of oil to consumers. This inaugural meeting marked the beginning of an influencer that would revolutionize the global oil market.

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Politics & Government

Iraq's Monarchy Overthrown by Abd al-Karim Qasim

July 14th, 1958 66 years ago

In a dramatic shift for Iraq, the monarchy was overthrown led by popular forces including Colonel Abd al-Karim Qasim. This revolution aimed to address widespread discontent and inequality and occurred after years of perceived mismanagement and exploitation by the ruling elite. The coup resulted in the establishment of a republic, signaling a significant transformation in governance and social structure within Iraq. Qasim emerged as the new leader, promising reforms and a focus on the needs of the common people.

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Politics & Government

Nuri al-Said's Eighth Term as Prime Minister

March 3rd, 1958 67 years ago

Nuri al-Said was appointed as Prime Minister of Iraq for the eighth time in 1958 amidst a backdrop of political instability. Having held the position multiple times since 1943, his leadership was characterized by efforts to modernize Iraq and strengthen ties with Western powers. His latest appointment came during a tumultuous period, marked by rising nationalism, regional tensions, and internal political challenges. Al-Said's government faced increasing pressure from political factions calling for reform and greater representation, setting the stage for significant changes in Iraq's political landscape.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

The Farhud: Pogrom Against Iraqi Jews

June 1st, 1941 83 years ago

In June 1941, anti-Jewish riots known as the Farhud erupted in Baghdad, Iraq. Fueled by local nationalism, these violent pogroms were instigated by a combination of political unrest and propaganda. Iraqi Jews faced looting, assaults, and murders. Thousands were forced to flee their homes, leading to a significant emigration of Jewish families, many of whom sought refuge in Palestine and beyond. The Farhud marked a critical turning point in the Jewish community's relationship with the Iraqi state.

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Military & Warfare

UK Intervenes in Iraq to Restore Crown Prince

May 2nd, 1941 83 years ago

Following a coup against Crown Prince Abd al-Ilah in Iraq, the United Kingdom initiated military action to restore him to power. The coup threatened British interests in the Middle East, particularly regarding oil reserves and strategic routes. British forces landed in Iraq, engaging with nationalist factions resisting foreign intervention in their politics. The Anglo-Iraqi War thus commenced, signaling a renewed British commitment to control in the region amidst rising Axis influence.

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