Historical Events tagged with "bravery"

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.

Crime & Law

Libero Grassi Assassinated by Sicilian Mafia

August 29th, 1991 33 years ago

Libero Grassi, a business owner in Palermo, was murdered by the Sicilian Mafia after he refused to pay extortion fees. Grassi took a public stand against the Mafia's demands, advocating for businesses to resist their intimidation tactics. His murder highlighted the pervasive influence of organized crime in Sicily and spurred public outcry against the Mafia's control over local enterprises.

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Military & Warfare

Australia Institutes Its Own Victoria Cross

January 15th, 1991 34 years ago

Elizabeth II signed letters patent allowing Australia to establish its own Victoria Cross, marking a significant milestone in the country's honours system. This decision recognized Australian military service and sacrifices made in conflicts, enabling recipients to be awarded a distinct honour reflecting their bravery. The initiative emphasized a growing sense of national identity and independence, separate from British honours.

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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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Military & Warfare

Captain Roger Donlon Receives Medal of Honor

December 5th, 1964 60 years ago

Captain Roger Donlon was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery during intense combat in Vietnam. Earlier in the year, he displayed extraordinary courage while leading his troops in a surprise attack by Viet Cong forces. Despite being wounded and outnumbered, Donlon’s actions saved many lives and turned the tide of battle in favor of his unit. His recognition marked a significant moment in the Vietnam War, highlighting the heroism displayed by U.S. military personnel in the conflict.

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Military & Warfare

Fasson and Grazier's Brave Attempt in U-559

October 30th, 1942 82 years ago

Lt. Tony Fasson and Able Seaman Colin Grazier drowned while attempting to retrieve code books from the sinking German submarine U-559. The submarine was located in the Mediterranean Sea and was targeted by British forces during World War II. As U-559 sank, the two men jumped into the water to salvage vital intelligence that could turn the tide of the war. Unfortunately, their brave efforts led to their drowning, marking a significant moment in naval warfare.

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Military & Warfare

George VI Awards George Cross to Malta

April 16th, 1942 82 years ago

King George VI awarded the George Cross to the people of Malta in recognition of their resilience during World War II. This award acknowledged the unyielding spirit of the Maltese, who endured severe bombing and siege conditions while supporting Allied forces. The ceremony took place during a troubled time for Europe, highlighting Malta's strategic importance and the bravery of its citizens. The George Cross was ultimately awarded to the island's population for their sacrifices and heroism in the face of adversity.

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Military & Warfare

King George VI Awards George Cross to Malta

April 15th, 1942 82 years ago

King George VI awarded the George Cross to Malta for the bravery and resilience shown by its people during the sustained bombing campaigns of World War II. The award was in recognition of the island's crucial role as a base for Allied operations in the Central Mediterranean. The honor was symbolically given at a ceremony in the presence of military officials and civic leaders, highlighting Malta's strategic importance and the indomitable spirit of its citizens against adversity.

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Military & Warfare

Brave Acts: Glezos and Santas Defy Occupation

May 30th, 1941 83 years ago

Manolis Glezos and Apostolos Santas climbed the Athenian Acropolis under the cover of darkness to remove a German flag that had been hoisted following the Nazi occupation of Greece. This act of defiance was a powerful symbol of resistance against oppression and marked a significant moment in the Greek resistance movement during World War II. Utilizing stealth and courage, they executed their plan flawlessly, gaining notoriety as heroes among their compatriots. Their actions ignited a wave of resistance efforts across Greece, galvanizing others to stand up against the occupiers.

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Military & Warfare

Lanoe Hawker Earns the Victoria Cross

July 25th, 1915 109 years ago

Captain Lanoe Hawker was awarded the Victoria Cross for his extraordinary bravery and skill in aerial combat during World War I. Serving in the Royal Flying Corps, he became the first British pursuit aviator to receive this prestigious honor, recognizing his valor in a series of engagements against enemy aircraft in the skies over France. His actions not only showcased his personal courage but also represented the evolving role of aviation in warfare as crucial for success in the trenches.

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