Historical Events tagged with "beirut"

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.

Military & Warfare

International Forces Withdraw from Lebanon

September 11th, 1982 42 years ago

Following Israel's invasion of Lebanon, international forces ensuring the safety of Palestinian refugees departed from Beirut. This withdrawal created a security vacuum, which five days later resulted in the massacre of several thousand refugees in the Sabra and Shatila camps by Phalange militia forces, who were allied with Israel during the conflict.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Multinational Force Arrives in Beirut

August 21st, 1982 42 years ago

Troops from a multinational force landed in Beirut to supervise the withdrawal of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) from Lebanon. This deployment aimed to ensure a smooth transition after the Israeli invasion earlier in the year, which had escalated tensions in the region. The arrival marked a new phase in the Lebanese Civil War, as international forces sought to stabilize the area and facilitate the PLO's exit.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Kidnapping of David S. Dodge in Beirut

July 19th, 1982 42 years ago

David S. Dodge, the president of the American University of Beirut, was kidnapped by Hezbollah militants during a period of escalating tensions in Lebanon. This incident occurred amidst the Lebanese Civil War and the Israeli invasion of Lebanon, which created a complex atmosphere of conflict involving various factions. Dodge was taken on July 19, 1982, in Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, highlighting the perilous situation for foreigners in the region as militant groups sought to leverage power through high-profile abductions. His kidnapping drew international attention and concern for the safety of expatriates in politically unstable areas.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

First modern suicide bombing at Iraqi embassy

December 15th, 1981 43 years ago

A suicide car bombing targeted the Iraqi embassy in Beirut, resulting in numerous casualties, including Iraq's ambassador to Lebanon. The attack occurred amid a backdrop of political instability and conflict in Lebanon, attracting global attention towards the use of suicide bombing as a tactic in warfare. During this brutal act, the bomber detonated explosives packed into a vehicle, leading to extensive destruction of the embassy structure and significant civilian loss of life. The implications of the attack extended far beyond immediate violence, influencing future terrorist strategies globally.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Terrorist Attack in Beirut Kills Many Palestinians

August 13th, 1978 46 years ago

A terrorist attack in Beirut resulted in the deaths of approximately 150 Palestinians. This occurred during the second phase of the Lebanese Civil War, a time of intense conflict characterized by sectarian violence and political struggles. The attack targeted a gathering predominantly composed of Palestinian refugees and was a significant event within the larger scope of Lebanese turmoil, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions affecting the region.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Kamal Jumblatt's Assassination in Lebanon

March 16th, 1977 47 years ago

Kamal Jumblatt, a prominent leader of the Lebanese left and anti-government forces during the civil war, was assassinated in 1977. His death occurred in the context of increasing tensions and violence in Lebanon, which had already been escalating due to political and sectarian conflicts. Jumblatt was a key figure representing the Druze community and had garnered support from various factions opposed to the ruling authorities. His assassination was carried out under mysterious circumstances and sparked significant unrest among his supporters, further complicating the ongoing civil conflict.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Karantina Massacre in Beirut

January 18th, 1976 49 years ago

In January of 1976, Lebanese Christian militias conducted a brutal operation in the Karantina area of Beirut, killing over 1,000 individuals. This massacre occurred amidst the backdrop of the Lebanese Civil War, which began the previous year. Militias targeted Palestinian refugees and Muslim residents, heightening the ethnic and sectarian strife prevalent in Lebanon. The violence escalated tensions and demonstrated the deadly intensity of conflict between different groups during this period.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Malév Flight 240 Crashes in Mediterranean Sea

September 30th, 1975 49 years ago

Malév Flight 240, a scheduled passenger flight, crashed into the Mediterranean Sea near Beirut International Airport, resulting in the death of all 60 people on board. The aircraft, a Boeing 727, was approaching the airport when it encountered difficulties. The crash raised concerns over safety protocols in the region, particularly in light of the ongoing civil unrest at the time.

Continue Reading
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.

Continue Reading