Historical Events tagged with "guatemala"

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

Antony Blinken Suspends Asylum Agreements

February 6th, 2021 4 years ago

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the suspension of agreements with Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras aimed at facilitating the return of asylum seekers. This decision was part of a broader reassessment of the previous administration's immigration policies. Blinken emphasized a need to rethink U.S. relations with Central American countries in light of ongoing challenges such as violence and poverty that drive migration. By halting these agreements, the Biden administration aimed to address the root causes of migration rather than merely enforcing deportations.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Guatemala Landslide Claims 280 Lives

October 1st, 2015 9 years ago

A significant landslide occurred in Guatemala due to heavy rains, leading to the unfortunate loss of 280 lives. The disaster struck the area of Santa Catarina Pinula, burying homes and people under tons of mud and debris. Emergency responders faced challenges due to the harsh weather conditions, complicating search and rescue operations. The catastrophe highlighted the vulnerability of regions prone to landslides, especially during intense weather phenomena.

Continue Reading
Cultural Traditions

Commemoration of B’ak’tun 13 Conclusion

December 21st, 2012 12 years ago

Festivities took place across Mesoamerica to commemorate the conclusion of the b’ak’tun 13 cycle in the Mesoamerican Long Count Calendar. This significant event, believed to cover a span of approximately 5,126 years, drew attention from New Age spiritualists who anticipated various transformative events, including cataclysmic occurrences. Celebrations featured local rituals, music, and community gatherings, emphasizing a reaffirmation of cultural heritage. As people reflected on the passing of this time cycle, there was both a sense of anxiety and hope regarding possible new beginnings.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Earthquake Strikes Pacific Coast of Guatemala

November 7th, 2012 12 years ago

An earthquake measuring 7.4 in magnitude struck off the Pacific coast of Guatemala, leading to significant destruction and the loss of at least 52 lives. The earthquake's epicenter was located near the town of San Jorge, approximately 40 kilometers from the coastal city of Mazatenango. Buildings collapsed and landslides occurred across several regions, complicating rescue efforts. Rescue teams scrambled to reach the remote areas affected by the quake, where many were trapped under debris. Survivors faced damaged infrastructure and limited access to essential services.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Cessna 208 Caravan Crash in Zacapa

August 24th, 2008 16 years ago

A Cessna 208 Caravan crashed in Cabañas, Zacapa, Guatemala, resulting in the deaths of 11 people. The small aircraft went down shortly after takeoff, leading to a rapid response from emergency services to the crash site. Witnesses reported seeing the plane struggling to maintain altitude before it went down, and authorities initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. The victims were identified as a group of individuals traveling for various reasons, including business and leisure.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Cubana Flight 1216 Overshoots La Aurora Runway

December 21st, 1999 25 years ago

Cubana de Aviación Flight 1216, a scheduled passenger flight from Havana, Cuba, to Guatemala City, Guatemala, overshot the runway during its landing approach, resulting in a disastrous accident that claimed the lives of 18 individuals. The aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas DC-10, failed to stop before reaching the end of the runway, crashing into a nearby area and causing significant casualties among passengers and crew members. Investigations were launched to determine the reasons behind the incident, including potential pilot error, weather conditions, and air traffic control factors.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Guatemala Signs Peace Accord Ending Civil War

December 29th, 1996 28 years ago

The Guatemalan government and leaders of the Guatemalan National Revolutionary Unity formally signed a peace accord, concluding a protracted civil war that lasted 36 years. This historic agreement took place in the capital city of Guatemala, where representatives from both sides pledged to initiate a new era of peace and reconciliation. The peace process aimed to address the profound social injustices and human rights abuses that had been suffered by the population during the long-standing conflict.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Deadly Stadium Crush in Guatemala City

October 16th, 1996 28 years ago

During a football match in Guatemala City, a massive crush occurred, resulting in the deaths of eighty-four football fans and injuries to approximately 180 others. The incident took place as fans rushed to exit the Estadio Mateo Flores after a dangerous situation erupted within the crowd. This tragic event highlighted the need for improved crowd management and safety measures in large sporting events.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Aerovías Sud Caravelle Crash in Guatemala

January 18th, 1986 39 years ago

An Aerovías Sud Aviation Caravelle crashed while approaching Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores, Petén, Guatemala, resulting in the deaths of all 94 individuals aboard. The aircraft experienced difficulties before landing, compelling the crew to attempt an emergency landing. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, the plane did not make it to the runway.

Continue Reading