Historical Events tagged with "siege"

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

Siege of Dubrovnik Initiated

October 1st, 1991 33 years ago

The Siege of Dubrovnik commenced as part of the Croatian War of Independence, primarily led by Yugoslav People's Army forces. Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historic architecture and coastal beauty, faced assault efforts beginning in October 1991, driven largely by tensions between Croatian forces and those loyal to the Yugoslav government. The siege aimed to capture the city for its strategic value and as a stronghold against Croatian independence. The fighting resulted in extensive damage to both the city and its cultural heritage.

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Politics & Government

Police Siege of Islamic Sect in Baling

November 19th, 1985 39 years ago

A police operation in Baling, Malaysia, targeted a group of approximately 400 followers of an Islamic sect led by Ibrahim Mahmud. The authorities, concerned about their activities and beliefs, laid siege to their houses, inciting tensions in the local community. The standoff highlighted the growing conflict between state authorities and religious groups, as well as fears over radicalization.

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Crime & Law

Covenant group surrenders after government siege

April 21st, 1985 39 years ago

The Covenant, The Sword, and the Arm of the Lord, a militant group based in Arkansas, surrendered to federal authorities after a two-day siege. The authorities had initiated the siege to apprehend the group's members following allegations of illegal activities, including stockpiling weapons and engaging in various criminal operations. The standoff was marked by tense negotiations and extensive media coverage, ultimately leading to the group's capitulation without further violence.

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Crime & Law

ATF and FBI Siege on Survivalist Compound

April 19th, 1985 39 years ago

In April 1985, over 200 ATF and FBI agents surrounded the compound of the white supremacist survivalist group known as The Covenant, the Sword, and the Arm of the Lord in Arkansas. This standoff began as agents sought to enforce federal laws regarding firearms and other illegal activities. After two days of negotiation, the group ultimately surrendered, marking a significant moment in law enforcement's efforts to address extremist groups operating within the United States.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Hanafi Muslims Seize Washington Buildings

March 9th, 1977 48 years ago

Armed Hanafi Muslims took control of three buildings in Washington, D.C., leading to a 39-hour standoff with law enforcement. The group, advocating for increased attention to issues affecting their community and the rights of Muslims, forced hostages to be taken. The incident drew national media coverage and highlighted tensions within the Muslim community regarding representation and visibility.

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Crime & Law

Provisional IRA Takes Hostages in London Siege

December 6th, 1975 49 years ago

A Provisional IRA unit, fleeing from police, took a British couple hostage in their London flat on Balcombe Street, leading to a six-day standoff. The armed group, attempting to evade capture, barricaded themselves with the hostages, prompting a significant police response. The event gained widespread media attention, illustrating the intensity of the conflict in Northern Ireland and its reach into mainland Britain.

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Crime & Law

Spaghetti House Siege in London

September 28th, 1975 49 years ago

Nine people were taken hostage at the Spaghetti House in London by armed robbers. This incident involved a group of thieves who entered the restaurant demanding money and holding staff and customers at gunpoint. The siege lasted for several hours, attracting police attention and leading to negotiations for the hostages' release. Ultimately, the police managed to resolve the situation without any fatalities.

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Military & Warfare

Battle of Khe Sanh Begins

January 21st, 1968 57 years ago

The Battle of Khe Sanh began as a significant military engagement in the Vietnam War. Taking place near the Khe Sanh Combat Base in Quang Tri Province, South Vietnam, the battle involved U.S. Marines and North Vietnamese forces. It was marked by intense fighting and siege conditions, with the U.S. forces aiming to capture and hold the strategic base to prevent North Vietnamese infiltration. This confrontation quickly drew substantial media attention due to its ferocity and implications for the war’s outcome.

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Military & Warfare

1st Cavalry Division Attacks Plei Me Forces

October 23rd, 1965 59 years ago

The 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) launched an operation in conjunction with the Army of the Republic of Vietnam aimed at destroying Communist forces during the siege of Plei Me. This operation followed a series of escalated engagements around the Plei Me Camp, reflecting the increasingly aggressive strategy of U.S. forces in Vietnam. Combined ground and aerial assaults targeted enemy positions to alleviate the siege and bolster ARVN capabilities.

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