Historical Events tagged with "justice"

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.

Crime & Law

Raúl Iturriaga Captured After Avoiding Arrest

August 3rd, 2007 17 years ago

Raúl Iturriaga, the former deputy director of the Chilean National Intelligence Directorate (DINA), was captured after being on the run for several years following his conviction for kidnapping during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. He had been sentenced to 26 years in prison for his involvement in the forced disappearance of a political activist. Iturriaga's capture marked a significant moment in Chile's ongoing efforts to bring justice to the victims of human rights abuses from the military regime.

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Politics & Government

Saddam Hussein Executed by Hanging

December 30th, 2006 18 years ago

Saddam Hussein, the former President of Iraq, was executed by hanging after being convicted of crimes against humanity for his role in the 1982 Dujail massacre. The execution took place in an Iraqi prison and was carried out shortly after the country's government confirmed the time and location to avoid potential unrest. Witnesses reported that Saddam remained defiant until the end, reportedly uttering phrases affirming his leadership. The execution marked the culmination of the legal processes in Iraq following the U.S.-led invasion in 2003, which resulted in his capture and trial.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Jena Six Incident in Jena, Louisiana

December 4th, 2006 18 years ago

In Jena, Louisiana, a white teenager was assaulted by six black youths. The confrontation occurred in a local high school and was reported to have stemmed from ongoing racial tensions in the community. The assault involved physical violence, leading to severe injuries for the victim. This incident sparked significant media attention and protests, as many viewed it as a reflection of broader racial issues in the United States.

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Politics & Government

Saddam Hussein Sentenced for Al-Dujail Massacre

November 5th, 2006 18 years ago

Saddam Hussein, along with co-defendants Barzan Ibrahim al-Tikriti and Awad Hamed al-Bandar, received death sentences in the al-Dujail trial for their involvement in the 1982 killings of 148 Shia Muslims. This verdict was reached by the Iraqi High Tribunal and marked a significant moment in Iraq's post-Saddam era, signaling accountability for past atrocities. The trial emphasized the regime's violent suppression of dissent and the brutal actions taken against the Shia population, contributing to ongoing sectarian tensions in Iraq.

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Crime & Law

Pavlo Lazarenko Sentenced for Financial Crimes

August 25th, 2006 18 years ago

Pavlo Lazarenko, the former Prime Minister of Ukraine, was sentenced to nine years in prison for serious financial crimes. His charges included money laundering, wire fraud, and extortion, with a notable focus on the illicit acquisition of wealth during his time in office. The case highlighted rampant corruption in Ukraine and drew attention to the intricacies of political graft and financial misconduct. Lazarenko's conviction was seen as a significant moment in Ukraine's ongoing struggle against corruption, especially given his prominent status in Ukrainian politics.

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Crime & Law

Saddam Hussein's Trial for Crimes Against Humanity

October 19th, 2005 19 years ago

Saddam Hussein, the former President of Iraq, was formally indicted on charges of crimes against humanity in Baghdad. The charge specifically stemmed from the massacres that took place in 1982 in Dujail, where over 140 Shiite villagers were killed following a failed assassination attempt on Hussein. This trial marked a significant moment in Iraq’s transition towards justice and accountability after years of dictatorship and conflict. Legal proceedings saw Saddam and seven co-defendants facing intense scrutiny as they appeared in a specially-established court.

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Politics & Government

John Roberts Becomes Chief Justice of the U.S.

September 29th, 2005 19 years ago

John G. Roberts Jr. was confirmed as the 17th Chief Justice of the United States by the Senate. This confirmation followed days of hearings and negotiations, where Roberts' judicial philosophy and integrity were examined. His appointment was seen as a significant moment for the Supreme Court, which would set the political and judicial tone for years to come. Senators voted 78-22, reflecting bipartisan support, emphasizing confidence in his commitment to constitutional interpretation and the rule of law.

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Crime & Law

Edgar Ray Killen Convicted of Manslaughter

June 21st, 2005 19 years ago

Edgar Ray Killen was convicted of manslaughter for his involvement in the 1964 murders of civil rights workers James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Mickey Schwerner. This landmark conviction came after the case was reopened in 2004, drawing national attention to the historical racial violence in Mississippi. Killen, a former Ku Klux Klan leader, had previously been tried twice in the 1960s but was acquitted both times. The jury deliberated for only 40 minutes before reaching a guilty verdict, reflecting the changing attitudes towards civil rights and justice over the decades.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Indictment of Edgar Ray Killen for 1964 Murders

January 6th, 2005 20 years ago

Edgar Ray Killen was indicted for his involvement in the 1964 murders of civil rights workers Andrew Goodman, Michael Schwerner, and James Chaney in Neshoba County, Mississippi. This indictment came decades after the crimes occurred during a time of heightened racial tensions and civil rights activism. The case was reopened as part of efforts to address unresolved civil rights violations, exemplifying ongoing struggles for justice. Killen, identified as a Ku Klux Klan leader, faced charges both of murder and conspiracy, marking a significant moment in the pursuit of accountability for racially motivated violence.

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