Historical Events tagged with "civil rights"

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

Eric Garner Dies After Chokehold by Police Officer

July 17th, 2014 10 years ago

Eric Garner, a 43-year-old man, died in Staten Island, New York, during an encounter with police officers who were attempting to arrest him for allegedly selling loose cigarettes. Officer Daniel Pantaleo placed Garner in a chokehold, a tactic banned by the NYPD, which ultimately led to Garner's death. Garner's repeated plea of 'I can't breathe' while being restrained was recorded on video, drawing significant public attention and outrage.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Hawaii becomes latest state for same-sex marriage

November 13th, 2013 11 years ago

Hawaii legalized same-sex marriage after the state legislature passed a bill allowing it, with Governor Neil Abercrombie signing it into law shortly thereafter. The law was a significant step forward for LGBTQ rights in the United States, reflecting shifting social attitudes toward marriage equality. This milestone made Hawaii the fifteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage, following numerous states that had paved the way. Supporters rallied across the state, celebrating the long-awaited decision while opponents expressed their disappointment.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Mass Protests Against Mohamed Morsi's Presidency

June 30th, 2013 11 years ago

Nationwide protests erupted across Egypt in opposition to President Mohamed Morsi's rule, led by the Freedom and Justice Party. Demonstrators voiced their frustration over economic troubles, political exclusion, and perceived authoritarianism. The protests quickly grew in size and intensity, culminating in widespread calls for Morsi's resignation. These mass mobilizations were marked by significant participation from various political and social groups, indicating a profound dissent within Egyptian society.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Supreme Court Declares DOMA Unconstitutional

June 26th, 2013 11 years ago

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which prevented federal recognition of same-sex marriages, was unconstitutional. This 5–4 decision, written by Justice Anthony Kennedy, cited a violation of the Fifth Amendment's due process clause. The ruling came from a case involving Edith Windsor, who was denied a federal estate tax exemption after her same-sex partner passed away. Windsor’s challenge marked a significant moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

Continue Reading
Religion & Philosophy

Episcopal Church USA approves same-sex marriage

July 10th, 2012 12 years ago

The Episcopal Church USA voted to allow same-sex marriages across its congregations, affirming its stance on LGBTQ+ rights. This decision was made at the church's General Convention held in Indianapolis, Indiana, highlighting a pivotal moment in the church's inclusivity efforts. It marked a significant shift in the church's policy, reflecting changing societal norms regarding marriage and relationships. The move was supported by many progressive members of the church who sought to extend full marriage rights to all couples, regardless of sexual orientation.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Trayvon Martin Shot in Sanford, Florida

February 26th, 2012 13 years ago

Seventeen-year-old Trayvon Martin, returning home from a convenience store, was shot and killed in Sanford, Florida, by neighborhood watch coordinator George Zimmerman following a confrontation. The incident sparked a national conversation about race and justice.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Mohamed Nasheed Resigns Amid Protests

February 7th, 2012 13 years ago

Following 23 days of intense protests, Mohamed Nasheed, the President of the Republic of Maldives, resigned amid growing pressure from anti-government demonstrators. The protests were primarily fueled by calls for the release of Chief Judge Abdulla Mohamed, who had been arrested by the military. On February 7, 2012, Nasheed's resignation marked a significant moment in the nation's political landscape, reflecting widespread dissent against his administration's actions.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Bucharest Protests Against Economic Austerity

January 12th, 2012 13 years ago

Mass protests erupted in cities across Romania as citizens took to the streets in opposition to economic austerity measures initiated by President Traian Băsescu. The demonstrations, which began just two days prior, quickly escalated into violent clashes between protesters and law enforcement. These events reflected widespread discontent among the populace regarding cuts to public spending and rising poverty levels amidst an ongoing financial crisis.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

End of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Policy

September 20th, 2011 13 years ago

The 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy, enacted in 1993, prohibited openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual individuals from serving in the U.S. military. On this date, the repeal was implemented, allowing them to serve without fear of discharge due to their sexual orientation. This historic change was the result of years of advocacy by LGBTQ+ rights groups and influenced by changing societal attitudes towards homosexuality. With this repeal, the military began a new era of inclusivity and acceptance.

Continue Reading