Historical Events tagged with "parliament"

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.

Politics & Government

Theresa May Triggers Brexit Process

March 29th, 2017 7 years ago

Prime Minister Theresa May formally invokes Article 50, initiating the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union. This pivotal moment follows a 2016 referendum decision favoring Brexit, setting into motion the complicated and unprecedented negotiations for the UK's future relationship with the EU. The invocation was delivered in a letter to the European Council President, Donald Tusk, emphasizing the government's commitment to securing the best possible terms for the UK post-Brexit.

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Crime & Law

Terrorist Attack Near Houses of Parliament

March 22nd, 2017 7 years ago

A vehicle rammed into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge, followed by a stabbing incident outside the Houses of Parliament in London. The assailant, Khalid Masood, was shot dead by police after killing four individuals and injuring at least 20 others. The attack occurred during rush hour, causing significant chaos in the area and prompting a swift security response from law enforcement. The incident was condemned globally and raised concerns about terrorism in major cities.

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Crime & Law

Michael Zehaf-Bibeau Attacks Canadian Parliament

October 22nd, 2014 10 years ago

Michael Zehaf-Bibeau launched a shooting spree at the Parliament of Canada, resulting in the death of a soldier and injuries to three others. The attack began at the National War Memorial, where Cpl. Nathan Cirillo was on guard. Zehaf-Bibeau then made his way into the Parliament buildings, causing panic and lockdown. His motivations connected to extremist views and mental health issues were later examined.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Same-sex Marriage Legalized in Sweden

May 1st, 2009 15 years ago

Sweden legalized same-sex marriage, allowing couples the same rights as opposite-sex spouses. The Swedish Parliament passed the law following a strong push from LGBTQ+ advocates and public support. The change aimed to promote equality, ensuring that same-sex couples could access the same legal protections and responsibilities in marriage as heterosexual couples. The law came into effect almost a decade after the introduction of registered partnerships for same-sex couples in 1995, marking a significant step in Sweden's journey towards full marriage equality.

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Politics & Government

Traian Băsescu's Impeachment Referendum Outcome

May 19th, 2007 17 years ago

Traian Băsescu, the President of Romania, faced an impeachment referendum initiated by the Romanian Parliament. Ultimately, the voter turnout was not sufficient to remove him from office, leading to his reinstatement. The referendum had sparked political tensions and debates surrounding the legitimacy of Băsescu's leadership, reflecting divisions within Romanian politics at the time.

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Politics & Government

Suicide Attack in Iraqi Parliament Cafeteria

April 12th, 2007 17 years ago

In a shocking act of violence, a suicide bomber infiltrated the heavily fortified Green Zone in Baghdad, targeting a cafeteria within the Iraqi parliament building. The attack resulted in the death of Iraqi MP Mohammed Awad and injuries to over twenty other individuals. As members of the parliament gathered, the assailant managed to bypass security measures, leading to a devastating explosion that highlighted the ongoing threats facing the Iraqi government during a tumultuous period of conflict and instability.

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Politics & Government

Commons Votes for Fully Elected House of Lords

March 7th, 2007 18 years ago

The British House of Commons voted to reform the House of Lords by making it entirely elected. This significant decision aimed to enhance democratic legitimacy in the UK Parliament. The vote reflected ongoing debates about the composition and role of the House of Lords in modern governance. Proponents argued for increased accountability, while critics expressed concern over potential changes in the political landscape.

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Politics & Government

Margaret Wilson Becomes Speaker of Parliament

March 3rd, 2005 20 years ago

Margaret Wilson was elected as the Speaker of the New Zealand House of Representatives, marking a significant moment in the nation’s political landscape. Her election initiated a unique period where New Zealand held the distinction of having all the highest political offices occupied by women, including Elizabeth II as Head of State. This unprecedented alignment symbolized a breakthrough in gender representation in political leadership roles, highlighting New Zealand's progressive stance on women in governance.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Canada Proposes Civil Marriage Act for Same-Sex Couples

February 2nd, 2005 20 years ago

The Government of Canada introduced the Civil Marriage Act, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at legalizing same-sex marriage across the country. This move was significant in the context of ongoing debates about equality and civil rights. The introduction was led by the Minister of Justice, Irwin Cotler, who emphasized the need to recognize the dignity and equality of all Canadians regardless of sexual orientation. The act aimed to amend the legal definition of marriage to include same-sex couples, reflecting changing societal attitudes toward LGBTQ+ rights. This act set the stage for a transformative period in Canadian law and culture regarding marriage equality.

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