Historical Events tagged with "fbi"

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

Randy Weaver Surrenders After Ruby Ridge Standoff

August 30th, 1992 32 years ago

The 11-day standoff at Ruby Ridge culminated when Randy Weaver surrendered to federal authorities. The standoff began after a siege was enacted by the FBI following an operation to apprehend Weaver for failing to appear in court regarding a firearms charge. Tensions escalated when a shootout led to the death of a U.S. Marshal and Weaver's son, further complicating negotiations and drawing national attention to the case.

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Crime & Law

FBI Sniper Shoots Vicki Weaver at Ruby Ridge

August 22nd, 1992 32 years ago

Vicki Weaver was shot and killed by FBI sniper Lon Horiuchi during an 11-day standoff at the Weaver family home in Ruby Ridge, Idaho. The incident occurred after an armed siege following a federal investigation into the family's illegal activities, which included the illegal sale of weapons. The confrontation escalated significantly, involving local law enforcement and federal agencies amid a backdrop of rising tensions related to government authority and militias.

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Crime & Law

Marion Barry Arrested in FBI Drug Sting

January 18th, 1990 35 years ago

Marion Barry, the Mayor of Washington, D.C., was arrested for drug possession while being recorded by the FBI in a sting operation. The arrest took place in a hotel room where Barry was allegedly seen using crack cocaine. This scandal captivated the nation and raised questions about the integrity of political leaders.

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Crime & Law

FBI Miami Shootout: A Daylight Gun Battle

April 11th, 1986 39 years ago

In Dade County, Florida, a gun battle erupted between two bank robbers and FBI agents pursuing them. The shootout resulted in the deaths of FBI agents Jerry L. Dove and Benjamin P. Grogan, with five other agents wounded during the intense confrontation. This dramatic event not only showcased the dangers faced by law enforcement but also led to the development of the popular .40 S&W cartridge.

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Crime & Law

Unabomber Package Explosion at University of Michigan

November 15th, 1985 39 years ago

A research assistant at the University of Michigan was injured when a package from the Unabomber exploded. The package, intended for Professor Thomas H. C. W. McClure, detonated in his office, leading to an investigation by law enforcement. This incident marked a continuing series of attacks attributed to the Unabomber, a domestic terrorist who sought to engineer fear through targeted bombings.

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Crime & Law

ATF and FBI Siege on Survivalist Compound

April 19th, 1985 40 years ago

In April 1985, over 200 ATF and FBI agents surrounded the compound of the white supremacist survivalist group known as The Covenant, the Sword, and the Arm of the Lord in Arkansas. This standoff began as agents sought to enforce federal laws regarding firearms and other illegal activities. After two days of negotiation, the group ultimately surrendered, marking a significant moment in law enforcement's efforts to address extremist groups operating within the United States.

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Crime & Law

FBI Accidentally Detonates Bomb at Hotel

August 26th, 1980 44 years ago

John Birges planted a bomb at Harvey's Resort Hotel in Stateline, Nevada, leading to a significant incident when the FBI attempted to disarm it. During the disarming process, an unexpected detonation occurred, resulting in injuries to several agents. The explosive had originally been placed with the intent of extortion, making the situation more complex for law enforcement. The incident highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement in bomb disposal efforts.

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Crime & Law

Emergency landing due to smoking package

November 15th, 1979 45 years ago

A package from Ted Kaczynski began smoking in the cargo hold of a flight from Chicago to Washington, D.C., leading to an emergency landing. The flight crew noticed smoke emanating from the cargo area, prompting immediate action to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew. The plane diverted to a nearby airport and landed safely, where authorities investigated the suspicious package.

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Politics & Government

Nixon and Haldeman Discuss CIA Obstruction

June 23rd, 1972 52 years ago

Richard M. Nixon and H. R. Haldeman were taped discussing the use of the Central Intelligence Agency to obstruct the Federal Bureau of Investigation's inquiry into the Watergate break-ins. This conversation revealed the administration's willingness to engage in illegal activities to protect its interests. It was a pivotal moment that showcased the depth of the scandal surrounding the Nixon administration.

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