Historical Events tagged with "international"

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.

Social Movements & Civil Rights

UN Assembly Recognizes Torture Convention

December 10th, 1984 40 years ago

The United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, which aims to prevent torture and other forms of ill-treatment by establishing legal frameworks and obligations for State parties. This significant move came at a time when various nations were grappling with issues relating to human rights abuses. The Convention was a response to the growing awareness and condemnation of torture practices worldwide, marking a collective commitment from member states to uphold human dignity and integrity.

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Sports & Recreation

Los Angeles Hosts the Summer Olympics

July 28th, 1984 40 years ago

The Games of the XXIII Olympiad opened in Los Angeles, captivating millions worldwide. The opening ceremony showcased a dazzling array of performances, including a procession of athletes, and highlighted California's culture and diversity. The iconic Olympic cauldron was lit by a surprise guest, baseball legend Hank Aaron. This Olympics marked the first time the games were held in the United States since 1932, and it was also notable for the absence of several Eastern Bloc countries due to a boycott.

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Science & Technology

Definition of Metre Standardized by Light Speed

October 21st, 1983 41 years ago

The meter is now defined based on the speed of light, a significant shift from previous physical prototypes. This change, made by the 17th General Conference on Weights and Measures in Paris, is based on the precise speed of light in a vacuum. The decision is aimed at improving scientific accuracy, marking a pivotal moment in metrology. The use of light as a constant for measurement offers greater precision for scientists and researchers worldwide. The new definition allows for a universal standard that is not subject to physical deterioration.

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Military & Warfare

Multinational Force Arrives in Beirut

August 21st, 1982 42 years ago

Troops from a multinational force landed in Beirut to supervise the withdrawal of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) from Lebanon. This deployment aimed to ensure a smooth transition after the Israeli invasion earlier in the year, which had escalated tensions in the region. The arrival marked a new phase in the Lebanese Civil War, as international forces sought to stabilize the area and facilitate the PLO's exit.

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Politics & Government

Knesset Approves Controversial Jerusalem Law

July 30th, 1980 44 years ago

The Knesset, Israel's parliament, enacted the Jerusalem Law, declaring Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and affirming its unity. The law was seen as a response to international debate regarding Jerusalem's status following Israel's annexation of East Jerusalem in 1967. It aimed to reinforce the city's significance for the Israeli state, emphasizing its symbolic and historical importance. The enactment of this law drew significant attention and condemnation from various international entities and Palestinian leaders, as it was perceived to undermine peace negotiations and the prospects for a two-state solution.

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Science & Technology

Implementation of Geneva Frequency Plan Begins

November 23rd, 1978 46 years ago

The Geneva Frequency Plan of 1975 was enacted, resulting in a major realignment of broadcasting frequencies across Europe. This change affected longwave and mediumwave transmission that had been in operation until that point. The adjustments sought to improve reception quality and reduce interference among stations. The regulations were agreed upon during a conference held in Geneva to address the growing complexity of frequency allocations in Europe.

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Science & Technology

First International Applications Under PCT Filed

June 1st, 1978 46 years ago

The first international patent applications were filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) on June 1, 1978. This treaty was established to simplify and streamline the process for obtaining international patent protection for inventors and businesses. By allowing applicants to file a single application to seek protection in multiple states, it marked a significant advancement in intellectual property rights. The initial filings demonstrated the treaty's potential to foster international cooperation in innovation and technological development, easing the burden on inventors seeking patents abroad.

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Space Exploration

Vladimír Remek's Historic Space Mission

March 2nd, 1978 47 years ago

Czech cosmonaut Vladimír Remek was launched into space aboard Soyuz 28, marking a significant milestone as the first non-Russian or non-American to achieve this feat. The mission launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan and aimed to conduct scientific experiments in orbit, specifically concerning the effects of weightlessness on human physiology. Remek's participation represented a symbol of cooperation between Czechoslovakia and the Soviet Union during the Cold War period, showcasing the expanding reach of space exploration beyond the superpowers.

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Military & Warfare

Egyptian Forces Raid Larnaca Airport

February 19th, 1978 47 years ago

Egyptian forces conducted a raid on Larnaca International Airport to intervene in a hijacking situation. Their unauthorized actions led to armed clashes with Cypriot National Guard and Police forces, resulting in the deaths of 15 Egyptian commandos and the destruction of an Egyptian C-130 transport plane. The operation raised significant tensions between Egypt and Cyprus as well as highlighting issues of international protocol regarding interventions in hijacking scenarios.

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