Historical Events tagged with "nevada"

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

Paradise Airlines Flight 901A Fatal Crash

March 1st, 1964 61 years ago

On March 1, 1964, Paradise Airlines Flight 901A crashed near Lake Tahoe, Nevada, resulting in the deaths of 85 individuals. The aircraft, a twin-engine Convair 440, was on a scheduled flight from Los Angeles to Reno. As it approached Lake Tahoe for landing, it encountered adverse weather conditions that contributed to the accident. Investigations revealed issues related to pilot error and violations of operational procedures.

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Military & Warfare

Last Atmospheric Test at Nevada Site

July 17th, 1962 62 years ago

The 'Small Boy' test shot Little Feller I marked the final atmospheric nuclear test at the Nevada National Security Site. Conducted by the United States, this test demonstrated advancements in nuclear technology and testing methodologies. With Little Feller I, a relatively low-yield nuclear device was detonated, showcasing its capabilities in a military context. The detonation aimed to study the effects of nuclear explosions on terrain and materials, laying groundwork for future testing.

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Science & Technology

Sedan Nuclear Test Conducted Under Operation Plowshare

July 6th, 1962 62 years ago

The Sedan nuclear test, part of Operation Plowshare, was detonated in Nevada, USA. Conducted by the United States, this test emitted a yield of approximately 104 kilotons. Its primary goal was to explore the feasibility of using nuclear explosion for peaceful purposes, such as excavation. The blast created a significant crater that measured around 390 feet in diameter, showcasing the tremendous power and potential applications of nuclear technology beyond warfare.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Collision of United Air Lines Flight 736 and Fighter Jet

April 21st, 1958 66 years ago

United Air Lines Flight 736 collided with a United States Air Force fighter jet near Arden, Nevada, resulting in aircraft damage and martial response. The flight, carrying 50 passengers, was en route from Los Angeles to New York when it encountered the military jet during a routine training exercise. The incident raised concerns about air safety and military protocols in civilian airspace.

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Military & Warfare

First Detonation of Operation Teapot: Wasp

February 18th, 1955 70 years ago

Wasp was the first test shot of Operation Teapot, successfully detonated at the Nevada Test Site with a yield of 1.2 kilotons. This series was conducted by the United States to evaluate new nuclear weapons designs and test military tactics in a desert environment. The Teapot series comprised fourteen tests, aimed at advancing nuclear capabilities during the Cold War. This test was instrumental in understanding the effects of nuclear explosions as they related to troop movements and equipment performance.

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Military & Warfare

First Nuclear Artillery Test at Nevada Site

May 25th, 1953 71 years ago

The United States conducted its first and only nuclear artillery test at the Nevada Test Site. This test, known as "Grable," involved a 15-kiloton atomic shell fired from a cannon. The test aimed to examine the feasibility and effectiveness of nuclear artillery and showcased advancements in military technology during the Cold War era. The event reflected the growing tensions between superpowers and the escalating arms race.

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Military & Warfare

Atomic Training at Operation Buster-Jangle

November 1st, 1951 73 years ago

Operation Buster-Jangle involved 6,500 U.S. Army soldiers exposed to atomic explosions at the Nevada Test Site for training purposes. The operation aimed to prepare troops for potential nuclear warfare during the Cold War era. Soldiers were subjected to multiple tests under the code name 'Desert Rock.' Involvement in this operation was mandatory, reflecting the military's commitment to integrating nuclear strategy into its training regimen while adapting to the evolving nature of warfare.

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Military & Warfare

Nuclear Testing Commences at Nevada Test Site

January 27th, 1951 74 years ago

Operation Ranger marked the start of nuclear tests at the Nevada Test Site, with the first detonation occurring on January 27, 1951. This series aimed to investigate the feasibility of nuclear weapons in military applications. Conducted by the Atomic Energy Commission, the tests took place in a remote area of Nevada, chosen for its isolation and security. The operation involved a series of explosions, contributing to the United States' stockpile of nuclear arms during the Cold War. Ranger was a significant step in advancing nuclear technology and military strategy.

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Politics & Government

Boulder Dam Renamed Hoover Dam

April 30th, 1947 77 years ago

Boulder Dam was officially renamed Hoover Dam in recognition of Herbert Hoover's role in its construction and promotion. The renaming took place during a ceremony attended by notable figures. The dam, completed in 1936, was initially named after Hoover when he was Secretary of Commerce. The event highlighted Hoover’s significant contributions during a challenging period in American history.

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