Historical Events tagged with "iraq"

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.

Military & Warfare

Iraq Invades Iran, Initiating Prolonged Conflict

September 22nd, 1980 44 years ago

The Iran-Iraq War began when Iraq, led by President Saddam Hussein, launched a military invasion of Iran. This offensive was part of Hussein's ambition to assert control over the Shatt al-Arab waterway and to exploit perceived instability in Iran following its 1979 revolution. The invasion quickly escalated into a full-scale war, resulting in significant casualties and territorial disputes that would last for nearly eight years.

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Politics & Government

Saddam Hussein's Regime Executes Al-Sadr and Sister

April 9th, 1980 44 years ago

Philosopher Muhammad Baqir al-Sadr and his sister, Bint al-Huda, were executed by the Iraqi regime of Saddam Hussein after enduring three days of torture. Their deaths marked a significant moment in the oppression of dissenting voices in Iraq, reflecting the regime's oppressive tactics against intellectuals and religious leaders. Al-Sadr, a prominent Shia cleric and philosopher, was known for his critical views on the authoritarian government.

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Politics & Government

Founding of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan

June 1st, 1975 49 years ago

The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) was founded by Jalal Talabani, Nawshirwan Mustafa, Fuad Masum, and others to advocate for the rights and autonomy of the Kurdish people in Iraq. Established during a period of significant political turbulence, the PUK emerged as a response to oppression and aimed to unify various Kurdish factions under a common goal. The founding members gathered to strategize the future of Kurdish nationalism and develop a framework for political and social change, highlighting the importance of Kurdish identity and autonomy within Iraq.

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Politics & Government

Iran and Iraq Settle Border Dispute

March 6th, 1975 50 years ago

In an effort to resolve longstanding tensions, Iran and Iraq signed the Algiers Accord, a landmark agreement addressing their border disputes, particularly over the Shatt al-Arab waterway. The talks were facilitated by Algeria, leading to mutual concessions and a commitment to uphold peace. Both nations emerged with a firmer understanding of their frontiers and an agreement to foster cooperation, marking a significant diplomatic achievement in a historically fractious relationship.

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Politics & Government

Ba'ath Party Takes Control of Iraq

July 17th, 1968 56 years ago

The Ba'ath Party seized power in Iraq, ousting President Abdul Rahman Arif. Led by Ahmed Hassan al-Bakr, this coup marked a significant shift in Iraq's governance. The coup was largely motivated by political instability and discontent with the existing regime. It led to the establishment of a new ruling authority, poised for rapid transformation in Iraqi society.

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Politics & Government

Ba'ath Party Overthrows Abd al-Karim Qasim

February 8th, 1963 62 years ago

The Ba'ath Party orchestrated a coup to overthrow Iraqi Prime Minister Abd al-Karim Qasim, marking a significant shift in Iraq's political landscape. The coup took place in Baghdad, driven by ideological differences and a desire for power. The Ba'athists sought to implement their Arab nationalist agenda and saw Qasim's policies as obstacles. The successful coup resulted in Qasim's imprisonment and later execution, affecting the course of Iraqi governance and its alignment in the broader Arab world.

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Economics & Industry

OPEC is Established in Baghdad

September 14th, 1960 64 years ago

Delegates from five countries met in Baghdad, Iraq, to establish an organization aimed at coordinating oil production and prices. This organization, known as the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), sought to unify petroleum policies among member countries. The founding nations, including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela, aimed to secure fair and stable prices for petroleum producers and ensure a constant supply of oil to consumers. This inaugural meeting marked the beginning of an influencer that would revolutionize the global oil market.

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Politics & Government

Iraq's Associations Law Legalizes Political Parties

January 6th, 1960 65 years ago

The Associations Law was enacted in Iraq, permitting the formation and registration of political parties. This legislative milestone aimed to enhance political representation and democratize the political landscape in Iraq, reflecting a growing trend toward political plurality in the region. With the establishment of a legal framework, political parties could now operate openly, leading to increased engagement in the governmental process and civil society.

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Politics & Government

Iraq's Monarchy Overthrown by Abd al-Karim Qasim

July 14th, 1958 66 years ago

In a dramatic shift for Iraq, the monarchy was overthrown led by popular forces including Colonel Abd al-Karim Qasim. This revolution aimed to address widespread discontent and inequality and occurred after years of perceived mismanagement and exploitation by the ruling elite. The coup resulted in the establishment of a republic, signaling a significant transformation in governance and social structure within Iraq. Qasim emerged as the new leader, promising reforms and a focus on the needs of the common people.

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