Historical Events tagged with "extremism"

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

Atocha Massacre in Madrid During Democracy Transition

January 24th, 1977 48 years ago

On January 24, 1977, a group of armed individuals attacked the labor lawyers' office in Atocha, Madrid, leading to the deaths of five lawyers. The attack was carried out by far-right extremists who targeted the lawyers for their involvement in the labor movement and support for workers' rights. This event highlighted the tensions during Spain's transition to democracy, which followed the end of Francisco Franco's dictatorship.

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Crime & Law

Bombing of Italicus Express Train in Italy

August 4th, 1974 50 years ago

A bomb exploded in the Italicus Express train traveling from Munich to Bologna, near San Benedetto Val di Sambro, killing 12 individuals and injuring 22 others. The explosion occurred during peak travel season, creating chaos among passengers. Investigators found traces of explosive devices pointing towards the involvement of far-right groups who opposed the government's political direction at the time.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

United Red Army Formed in Japan

July 15th, 1971 53 years ago

The United Red Army was established as a radical leftist group in Japan, merging factions from existing revolutionary organizations. This formation aimed to combat perceived oppressive systems through armed struggle and political activism, drawing inspiration from global revolutionary movements. The group's formation brought together individuals who adopted Marxist-Leninist ideologies, seeking to create a new society through violent means. It would go on to play a significant role in Japan's domestic terrorism landscape during the 1970s.

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Crime & Law

Assassination of George Lincoln Rockwell

August 25th, 1967 57 years ago

George Lincoln Rockwell, the founder of the American Nazi Party, was assassinated in Arlington, Virginia, by a former member of his organization. Rockwell had been a controversial figure in American politics, known for his promotion of white supremacist ideology. His assassination was a culmination of growing tensions within the far-right movements at the time, and it drew significant media attention due to his notoriety and the violent circumstances of his death.

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Politics & Government

Armand Călinescu Assassinated by Iron Guard

September 21st, 1939 85 years ago

Romanian Prime Minister Armand Călinescu was assassinated by members of the Iron Guard, a far-right nationalist movement, on September 21, 1939. The assassination occurred in Bucharest, Romania, where his opposition to the Iron Guard's violent tactics and anti-Semitic policies had made him a target. Călinescu had been pursuing measures to strengthen state authority against extremist groups, which ultimately precipitated his attack.

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Politics & Government

Far-right Attempted Coup in France

February 6th, 1934 91 years ago

In a dramatic display of political extremism, far-right leagues rallied in front of the Palais Bourbon, challenging the stability of the French Third Republic. This mobilization was driven by demands for stronger nationalistic policies and dissatisfaction with the government's handling of social issues. Tensions were high as participants attempted to exert pressure on the political establishment, igniting fears of a potential coup and a loss of democratic governance in France.

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Politics & Government

Nazi Party Secures 38% of German Election Votes

July 31st, 1932 92 years ago

In the German elections, the NSDAP, led by Adolf Hitler, garnered over 38% of the vote, becoming the most significant party in the Reichstag. This marked a significant shift in German politics, reflecting widespread public discontent and the party's growing popularity due to promises of economic stability and national revival. The event changed the political landscape in Germany, leading to increased tensions and the eventual rise to power of the Nazi regime.

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Politics & Government

Svinhufvud's Speech Ends Mäntsälä Rebellion

March 2nd, 1932 93 years ago

On March 2, 1932, Finnish President P. E. Svinhufvud delivered a crucial radio speech aimed at quelling the Mäntsälä Rebellion instigated by the far-right Lapua Movement. The rebellion had been a significant threat to Finland's democratic government, sparking tensions that required decisive leadership. Svinhufvud's address emphasized unity and the rule of law, resonating with the public and political leaders alike. Just four days later, the rebellion concluded as his words encouraged a return to peace and order, marking a pivotal moment in Finnish political history.

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Politics & Government

Founding of the Nazi Party in Munich

February 24th, 1920 105 years ago

In February 1920, Adolf Hitler officially founded the National Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP) in the Hofbräuhaus beer hall in Munich, Germany. During a rally, Hitler articulated the party's platform, which included intense nationalism, anti-Semitism, and a rejection of the Treaty of Versailles. The venue was symbolic, attracting a crowd of about 2,000 people, many of whom were already members of the German Workers' Party (DAP). This relaunch aimed to unify various nationalist factions under a single political entity and marked the beginning of a new political force in German politics.

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