Historical Events tagged with "civil war"

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

Sri Lankan Army Massacres Tamil Farm Workers

February 19th, 1986 39 years ago

In Akkaraipattu, eastern Sri Lanka, the Sri Lankan Army killed 80 Tamil farm workers. The incident stemmed from the ongoing ethnic conflict between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil population, exacerbated by military actions against perceived Tamil militancy. This brutal act highlighted the tensions and violence faced by the Tamil community during this period.

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Politics & Government

National Resistance Army overthrows Tito Okello

January 26th, 1986 39 years ago

On January 26, 1986, the National Resistance Army (NRA), under the leadership of Yoweri Museveni, successfully overthrew the Ugandan government led by Tito Okello. The overthrow occurred during a civil war that had gripped the country for years, primarily driven by discontent towards Okello's governance following years of political instability. Museveni's forces entered Kampala, the capital city, establishing control and effectively ending Okello's regime.

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Politics & Government

National Resistance Movement Seizes Power in Uganda

January 25th, 1986 39 years ago

The National Resistance Movement (NRM), led by Yoweri Museveni, launched a successful offensive against the government of Tito Okello, ultimately capturing Kampala and establishing control over Uganda. The offensive was notable for its speed and the military strategies employed by the NRM, which had been fighting against various regimes for several years. The fall of Okello's government marked a significant turning point in Uganda's political landscape, setting the stage for years of civil order under Museveni's rule.

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Military & Warfare

Antonov An-12 Downed in Angola Conflict

November 25th, 1985 39 years ago

A Soviet Air Force Antonov An-12 was shot down near Menongue in Angola's Cuando Cubango Province, resulting in the deaths of 21 personnel on board. The aircraft, engaged in support of the MPLA, was targeted during a period of intense conflict amidst Angola's civil war. The incident underscored the ongoing tensions and military operations involving multiple factions vying for control within the country.

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Military & Warfare

Revolutionary Party Attack in Zona Rosa

June 19th, 1985 39 years ago

Members of the Revolutionary Party of Central American Workers disguised themselves as Salvadoran soldiers and launched an attack on the Zona Rosa area of San Salvador. This event involved an explosion of violence in a prominent section of the capital, known for its vibrant nightlife and commercial activities. The attackers aimed to disrupt the perceived safety and security of the elite area, sending a powerful message during the ongoing civil conflict in El Salvador. The incident showcased the bold tactics of guerrilla forces in their struggle against the government.

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Politics & Government

Terry Anderson Kidnapped in Beirut

March 16th, 1985 39 years ago

Terry Anderson, a journalist for the Associated Press, was abducted in Beirut while covering the Lebanese civil war. His kidnapping occurred amidst a climate of instability and violence in Lebanon, as various factions vied for control. Anderson became one of the longest-held Western hostages in Lebanon, spending more than six years in captivity before his release in December 1991. This incident underscored the dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones.

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Politics & Government

Failed Assassination Attempt on Cleric Fadlallah

March 8th, 1985 40 years ago

An assassination attempt targeting Sayyed Mohammad Hussein Fadlallah in Beirut led to an explosion that resulted in the deaths of 80 individuals and left around 200 others injured. The attack took place outside a mosque during a period of intense sectarian conflict in Lebanon, raising tensions and fears of escalating violence. Fadlallah, a prominent Shiite cleric, was known for his influence within the community, and the attack was believed to be politically motivated.

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Military & Warfare

Civilians Killed in Mannar by Sri Lankan Army

December 4th, 1984 40 years ago

In Mannar, Sri Lankan Army soldiers were implicated in the deaths of 107 to 150 civilians amidst ongoing conflict. The incident contributed to international scrutiny and criticism of the Sri Lankan government's military tactics against the Tamil population during the Sri Lankan Civil War, which had been intensifying since the early 1980s due to ethnic tensions and separatist aspirations.

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Politics & Government

Kidnapping of CIA Chief William Buckley in Lebanon

March 16th, 1984 40 years ago

William Buckley, the CIA station chief in Beirut, was kidnapped by Hezbollah operatives while traveling in his vehicle. His abduction was part of a broader wave of kidnappings of Western officials and citizens occurring in Lebanon during the civil war. Despite efforts for his release, Buckley was held captive for over a year and ultimately died while in Hezbollah custody, raising concerns about the safety of U.S. personnel abroad.

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