Historical Events tagged with "corruption"

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.

Politics & Government

Start of Watergate Televised Hearings

May 17th, 1973 51 years ago

The Watergate scandal's televised hearings began, drawing significant public attention. This landmark event featured testimony from key witnesses, including John Dean, who revealed extensive details about the Nixon administration's involvement in the break-in and subsequent cover-up. The hearings were pivotal in shaping public perception of the government and addressed issues of corruption and abuse of power.

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Crime & Law

Frank Serpico Survives Shooting During Drug Bust

February 3rd, 1971 54 years ago

Frank Serpico, a New York police officer, was shot during a drug bust in Brooklyn. Despite being seriously wounded, he survived the attack and later became a whistleblower against police corruption. His testimony in court revealed extensive corrupt practices within the NYPD, leading to significant reforms and a public outcry against systemic misconduct in the police force.

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Politics & Government

Mobutu Takes Control in Congo

November 24th, 1965 59 years ago

Joseph-Désiré Mobutu staged a coup in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, effectively dethroning the existing government. The coup aimed at curbing political instability and corruption, which had plagued the nation since its independence. Mobutu, who later renamed the country Zaire, established an authoritarian regime that emphasized nationalism and the suppression of dissent. His rule would last for over three decades, significantly shaping the political landscape of the region.

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Politics & Government

Batista's Coup Overthrows Cuban Government

March 10th, 1952 73 years ago

Fulgencio Batista led a successful coup against the Cuban government, overtaking the presidency and establishing a military regime. The coup was staged in the early hours as Batista's forces seized key government buildings and military installations in Havana. This coup was fueled by Batista's discontent with the election outcomes and resulted in a swift consolidation of power, leading to his authoritarian rule. The actions of Batista and his followers marked a significant turning point in Cuba's political landscape.

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Crime & Law

Walter Liggett Murdered in Chicago Gang Conflict

December 9th, 1935 89 years ago

Walter Liggett, a prominent newspaper editor and muckraker, was murdered in a gangland shooting in Chicago. Known for his investigative reporting on organized crime and corruption, Liggett faced numerous threats due to his vocal opposition to mob violence and political corruption. His death marked a significant moment in the tensions surrounding organized crime in the United States during the Great Depression, drawing attention to the dangers faced by journalists exposing powerful interests.

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Politics & Government

Huey P. Long Impeached by Louisiana House

April 6th, 1929 95 years ago

The Louisiana House of Representatives impeached Governor Huey P. Long in a surprising political showdown. The session came after growing discontent among lawmakers regarding Long's authoritarian style, rampant corruption allegations, and confrontational governance. Despite significant public support, the legislative body voted to impeach him, highlighting the contentious nature of Louisiana politics at the time. This event marked a pivotal moment in Long's political career and offered insight into the tensions surrounding his leadership.

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Politics & Government

Kendrick Introduces Resolution on Land Deal

April 15th, 1922 102 years ago

U.S. Senator John B. Kendrick of Wyoming introduced a resolution demanding an investigation into a secret land deal involving the Teapot Dome oil reserves. This significant act of Congress drew attention to the dealings made by the Harding administration regarding the leasing of federal oil reserves to private parties without competitive bidding. As the Senate delved deeper, it uncovered widespread corruption and misconduct, leading to one of the most infamous scandals in American political history.

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Politics & Government

Teapot Dome Scandal Unfolds

April 7th, 1922 102 years ago

United States Secretary of the Interior Albert B. Fall controversially leases Navy oil reserves at Teapot Dome, Wyoming, to private oil companies, notably Sinclair Oil, for terms favored by the companies. This deal, made in secrecy, raises questions about corruption and the influence of business on government. Investigative efforts reveal a pattern of favoritism and unethical practices surrounding federal land leases.

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Politics & Government

Revolución del Parque Forces Presidential Change

July 26th, 1890 134 years ago

In July, tensions in Argentina surged as the Revolución del Parque erupted in Buenos Aires, leading to the resignation of President Miguel Ángel Juárez Celman. A coalition of political factions, spurred by widespread discontent over economic policies and government corruption, organized mass protests that culminated in a power struggle. Citizens rallied in the city's park to demand transparency and reform, symbolizing their collective voice. The unrest quickly escalated, compelling Juárez Celman to step down amidst widespread demands for democracy.

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