Historical Events tagged with "ratification"

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

Iceland Ratifies Kyoto Protocol's 55 Parties Clause

May 23rd, 2002 22 years ago

Iceland ratified the Kyoto Protocol, contributing to the 55 Parties clause that was crucial for its enforcement. This ratification was significant as it ensured that the combined emissions of the countries that ratified the treaty accounted for at least 55% of global emissions in 1990. The agreement aimed to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through legally binding commitments for developed nations. Iceland’s action showcased its commitment to international efforts to address environmental issues.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Mississippi Ratifies Thirteenth Amendment

March 16th, 1995 30 years ago

Mississippi formally ratified the Thirteenth Amendment, achieving the formal abolition of slavery in the United States. Despite the Thirteenth Amendment being ratified in 1865, Mississippi was the last state to sign off in 1995. The ratification occurred when state lawmakers took action to correct the oversight, reflecting unique local and national historical contexts surrounding slavery and civil rights.

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Politics & Government

Michigan Ratifies 203-Year-Old Constitutional Amendment

May 7th, 1992 32 years ago

Michigan became the 38th state to ratify a proposed amendment to the U.S. Constitution, originally introduced in 1789, which prohibits Congress from granting itself mid-term pay raises. This ratification followed a remarkable span of over two centuries since the amendment was first proposed. The unanimous support from Michigan lawmakers underscored a renewed focus on fiscal responsibility and accountability within the U.S. Congress. The amendment finally received the necessary number of state ratifications to become law.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Norway Ratifies Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention

June 19th, 1990 34 years ago

Norway became the first country to ratify the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989, a significant legal framework focused on the rights of indigenous peoples. This landmark decision came during a period marked by increasing global awareness of indigenous rights and the challenges faced by these communities. The ratification signaled Norway's commitment to uphold international standards protecting indigenous cultures and territories, advocating for their interests on a global stage.

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Politics & Government

Ratification of the 25th Amendment

February 10th, 1967 58 years ago

The 25th Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified, providing procedures for presidential succession and disability. Its passage reflected efforts to address uncertainties surrounding leadership and continuity in government, particularly in light of events such as the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. This amendment was necessary to clarify the process for filling a vice presidential vacancy, manage presidential disabilities, and ensure governance in times of crisis.

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Politics & Government

US Senate Ratifies Security Treaty with Japan

March 20th, 1952 73 years ago

The US Senate ratified a crucial security treaty with Japan, solidifying the military alliance between the two nations. This treaty aimed to bolster regional stability following World War II and address security concerns amid the rising tensions of the Cold War. It was pivotal in reshaping US-Japan relations, establishing a framework for US military presence in Japan, which was necessary for both countries to counter potential threats in Asia.

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Politics & Government

Senate Ratifies NATO Treaty

July 21st, 1949 75 years ago

The North Atlantic Treaty was ratified by the United States Senate, marking a significant step in collective security for member nations. Signed in 1949, the treaty established NATO as a military alliance focused on mutual defense against aggression, particularly from the Soviet Union during the early Cold War. The ratification facilitated the U.S. commitment to defend Western Europe and forged stronger transatlantic ties. The treaty was debated extensively before gaining the necessary two-thirds majority for ratification, underscoring the importance placed on international alliances against potential threats.

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Politics & Government

Nebraska Approves Prohibition Amendment

January 16th, 1919 106 years ago

Nebraska became the 36th state to approve the Eighteenth Amendment, which established Prohibition in the United States. This amendment prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. The approval by Nebraska, along with others, reached the necessary three-quarters majority required for constitutional validation. As a result, this marked a significant turning point in American social policy, reflecting the temperance movement’s influence in the early 20th century. The Eighteenth Amendment laid the groundwork for a nationwide ban on alcohol that took effect one year later.

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Politics & Government

Ratification of the Sixteenth Amendment

February 3rd, 1913 112 years ago

The Sixteenth Amendment was ratified, allowing the Federal government to impose and collect an income tax. This amendment provided the legal foundation for a federal income tax system in the United States. Advocates argued it was necessary for the nation’s financial stability and growth, as revenues from tariffs and other taxes were insufficient to support new government programs. The amendment fundamentally changed the federal government's ability to fund operations and social programs by tapping into individual incomes across the nation.

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