Historical Events tagged with "halifax"

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.

Accidents & Tragedies

Air Canada Flight 624 Skids Off Runway

March 29th, 2015 9 years ago

Air Canada Flight 624, arriving from Toronto, skidded off the runway at Halifax Stanfield International Airport shortly past midnight. All 138 occupants, which included 133 passengers and five crew members, survived the incident. Amid the adverse weather conditions, particularly heavy snowfall and windy conditions, 23 people were treated for minor injuries. The aircraft was substantially damaged during the landing, marking a critical moment for aviation safety and emergency response protocols at the airport.

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Accidents & Tragedies

MK Airlines Flight 1602 crashes during takeoff

October 14th, 2004 20 years ago

MK Airlines Flight 1602 crashed at Halifax Stanfield International Airport during takeoff, resulting in the deaths of all seven people onboard. The aircraft, a Boeing 727-200, encountered issues shortly after becoming airborne. Witnesses observed the plane struggling to gain altitude before it plummeted back to the ground. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, but unfortunately, no survivors were found among the crew and cargo personnel.

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Exploration & Discovery

St. Roch Completes Circumnavigation of North America

May 29th, 1950 74 years ago

The St. Roch, a Royal Canadian Mounted Police vessel, became the first ship to successfully circumnavigate North America. After a challenging journey that lasted nearly two years, the ship arrived in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, on May 29, 1950. This pioneering voyage was undertaken to demonstrate the viability of the Northwest Passage as a shipping route and showcased the resilience of crew and ship alike against formidable Arctic conditions.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Halifax Riot Involves Civilians and Servicemen

May 8th, 1945 79 years ago

Thousands of civilians and servicemen in Halifax went on a rampage, causing significant unrest in the city during a post-war celebration. Tensions flared due to a mix of emotions surrounding the end of World War II, local grievances, and the behavior of some sailors on shore leave. The riot escalated into widespread chaos, with property damage and confrontations reported.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Massive Explosion in Halifax Harbor

December 6th, 1917 107 years ago

A massive explosion occurred in Halifax, Nova Scotia, when the SS Mont-Blanc, a French cargo ship carrying high-explosives, caught fire and detonated in the harbor. This explosion was the largest man-made explosion at that time, leading to extensive destruction across the city. Over 1,900 people lost their lives, and thousands more were injured due to the blast and subsequent fires. The incident highlighted the dangers of wartime logistics and munitions transportation, as Halifax was a critical base for supplying troops during World War I.

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Military & Warfare

HMS Niobe Becomes Canada's First Naval Ship

October 21st, 1910 114 years ago

HMS Niobe arrived in Halifax Harbour, marking its place as the first ship in the Royal Canadian Navy. This ship was a British cruiser, formally transferred to Canada, integrating Canada’s naval power into the fabric of national defense. Commanded by Captain Edward L. M. H. E. G. T. P. D. R. P. H. H. A. Haskett, the ceremony was attended by dignitaries and military officials, reflecting the growing importance of Canada’s naval capabilities during an era of increasing geopolitical tensions.

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Politics & Government

North Carolina Supports Independence Vote

April 12th, 1776 248 years ago

The Halifax Resolves marked a significant step in the American push for independence as the North Carolina Provincial Congress authorized its delegates to vote for independence from Great Britain. This decision was crucial, as it made North Carolina the first colony to endorse complete independence, showcasing a bold stance against British rule. The assembly met in Halifax, where delegates quickly recognized the need for a unified front among the colonies. The Resolves served as a pivotal document that influenced other colonies in their fight for freedom.

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Politics & Government

Foundation of Halifax, Nova Scotia

June 21st, 1749 275 years ago

Halifax was established as a military post and settlement to strengthen British presence in North America. The British government, concerned about French control in the region, authorized the expedition led by Edward Cornwallis. The new settlement was an important strategic location, with its harbor providing protection and facilitating trade. The site was selected based on its natural harbor and resources, and the first settlers arrived by ship. Cornwallis oversaw the construction of defensive structures and buildings, marking the beginning of Halifax's growth.

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