Historical Events tagged with "government"

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

Jean-Bédel Bokassa Sentenced to Death

June 12th, 1987 37 years ago

Jean-Bédel Bokassa, who proclaimed himself emperor of the Central African Republic, was sentenced to death following a trial that highlighted numerous crimes, including murder and embezzlement, committed during his authoritarian regime. The sentence came after a public trial that garnered international attention, as Bokassa's extravagant self-coronation in 1977 had drawn global scrutiny. The trial took place in Bangui, where evidence of his misrule was presented. Bokassa's conviction signified a shift in the nation's governance, aiming to restore justice and democracy.

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Politics & Government

New Zealand Declares Nuclear-Free Zone

June 8th, 1987 37 years ago

New Zealand's Labour government enacted the New Zealand Nuclear Free Zone, Disarmament, and Arms Control Act, establishing the nation as a nuclear-free zone. This legislation made it illegal for nuclear weapons to be transported through or stationed in New Zealand. The decision was influenced by strong public sentiment against nuclear weapons and concerns over the impact of nuclear testing in the Pacific. The act marked a significant departure from previous defense policies and reflected New Zealand's evolving identity in the international community.

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Politics & Government

Fijian Coup: Bavadra Ousted by Rabuka

May 14th, 1987 37 years ago

Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka seized control of Fiji's government, ousting Prime Minister Timoci Bavadra. The coup followed mounting tensions over ethnic and political divisions within the island nation. The military intervention was marked by swift action, with Rabuka and his troops effectively taking power within hours.

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Politics & Government

Philippines Adopts New Constitution Post-Revolution

February 2nd, 1987 38 years ago

The Philippines enacted a new constitution, marking a significant transition toward democracy following the 1986 People Power Revolution. The constitution aimed to strengthen civil liberties and establish a framework for governance that represented the will of the people. It was the product of years of struggle against authoritarian rule under Ferdinand Marcos. The drafting process featured input from various sectors of society, reflecting a collective vision for a democratic future. The new constitution was officially ratified, setting the stage for a new era in Philippine politics.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Philippine Forces Clash with Demonstrators

January 22nd, 1987 38 years ago

At Malacañang Palace in Manila, Philippine security forces opened fire on a large crowd of demonstrators estimated between 10,000 to 15,000. The protest was largely driven by demands for political reform and social justice. The violent response resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals. This incident highlighted increasing tensions in the country following years of dictatorship and social unrest, as citizens gathered to voice their grievances against the government.

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Politics & Government

Reagan Names Tower Commission Members

November 26th, 1986 38 years ago

U.S. President Ronald Reagan announced the formation of the Tower Commission to investigate the Iran-Contra affair. Created in response to the controversy surrounding secret arms sales to Iran and the diversion of funds to Contra rebels in Nicaragua, the Commission aimed to provide clarity on U.S. policy. Led by former Senator John Tower, the Commission was composed of notable figures tasked with assessing the actions of the Reagan administration and addressing allegations of misconduct in foreign policy.

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Politics & Government

Meese Reveals Contra Funding From Iran Sales

November 25th, 1986 38 years ago

U.S. Attorney General Edwin Meese publicly announced that profits from covert arms sales to Iran were illegally funneled to the Contras, anti-communist rebels fighting in Nicaragua. This announcement raised significant legal and political ramifications, implicating senior officials in a clandestine operation that bypassed congressional oversight. The revelation caught widespread media attention and highlighted the complexities of U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War.

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Politics & Government

Nicholas Daniloff Indicted for Espionage

September 8th, 1986 38 years ago

Nicholas Daniloff, a correspondent for U.S. News & World Report, was indicted on espionage charges in the Soviet Union. The indictment escalated the ongoing tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Daniloff had been detained in Moscow earlier that month, accused of espionage after a fellow journalist was arrested on similar charges. This incident was viewed within the larger context of U.S.-Soviet relations, characterized by mistrust and confrontation.

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Politics & Government

Police Stations Attacked in Kathmandu

April 1st, 1986 39 years ago

Cadres from the Communist Party of Nepal (Mashal) initiated a series of coordinated attacks on multiple police stations in Kathmandu. The assaults aimed to incite a popular rebellion against the ruling government, reflecting the rising tensions and demands for political change within the nation. This provocation marked a significant moment in the political unrest of Nepal, highlighting the escalating struggle between government forces and communist factions seeking to establish a more radical movement.

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