Historical Events tagged with "texas"

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

George Hennard's Rampage in Killeen

October 16th, 1991 33 years ago

George Hennard entered a Luby's cafeteria in Killeen, Texas, carrying multiple firearms. He opened fire, killing 23 individuals and injuring 20 others, before taking his own life following a standoff with police. The incident highlighted issues of gun control and mental health.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Continental Express Flight 2574 Crashes in Texas

September 11th, 1991 33 years ago

Continental Express Flight 2574, operated by Embraer, crashed near Eagle Lake, Texas, resulting in the deaths of 11 passengers and three crew members. The flight was en route from Houston to Laredo when it encountered severe weather, leading to the tragic incident. The aircraft went down shortly after takeoff, igniting a fire on impact and leaving a devastating scene for emergency responders. Investigations into the crash included examining pilot decisions and weather conditions, marking a pivotal moment for aviation safety regulations.

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Crime & Law

Raids on Steve Jackson Games Sparks Debate

March 1st, 1990 35 years ago

In March 1990, agents from the United States Secret Service raided the offices of Steve Jackson Games in Austin, Texas, confiscating computer equipment and documents. The raid was part of an investigation into an alleged conspiracy involving the sale of software designed for the unauthorized hacking of phone systems. This action raised significant concerns about civil liberties in the digital age and the boundaries of law enforcement powers in dealing with burgeoning technology, leading to a public outcry and discussions about digital rights and freedoms.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Deadly Explosion at Houston Chemical Complex

October 23rd, 1989 35 years ago

An explosion occurred at the Houston Chemical Complex in Pasadena, Texas, resulting in a Richter magnitude scale reading of 3.5. The detonation claimed the lives of 23 individuals while injuring 314 others. It was initially a regular day at the facility until a massive blast erupted, causing significant destruction in the surrounding area. Emergency services responded promptly to manage the situation and provide aid to the affected.

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Sports & Recreation

Nolan Ryan Achieves 5,000 Strikeouts Milestone

August 22nd, 1989 35 years ago

Nolan Ryan struck out Rickey Henderson, making history as the first pitcher to reach 5,000 strikeouts in Major League Baseball. This milestone occurred during a game between the Texas Rangers and the California Angels at Arlington Stadium. Henderson, a legendary leadoff hitter and future Hall of Famer, became Ryan's 5,000th strikeout victim in the fifth inning. The achievement underlined Ryan's remarkable longevity and dominance on the mound throughout his career.

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Politics & Government

Supreme Court Protects Flag-Burning as Protest

June 21st, 1989 35 years ago

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Texas v. Johnson that flag-burning constitutes a form of political protest protected under the First Amendment. The case arose when Gregory Lee Johnson burned an American flag during a protest at the 1984 Republican National Convention in Dallas, Texas. Charged with flag desecration under Texas law, Johnson argued his act was symbolic speech. The Supreme Court's ruling emphasized the importance of protecting free speech, even when it involves highly controversial expressions.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Delta Flight 1141 Crashes at DFW Airport

August 31st, 1988 36 years ago

Delta Air Lines Flight 1141, a Boeing 727, crashed during takeoff from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport after experiencing an aborted takeoff due to issues with the plane's configuration. The aircraft was bound for Salt Lake City when it struck a small embankment and burst into flames, resulting in the deaths of 14 passengers and crew members, while 27 others were injured. The crash was attributed to a combination of pilot error and mechanical failure.

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Arts & Culture

Nixon in China Opera Premieres in Texas

October 22nd, 1987 37 years ago

John Adams' opera 'Nixon in China' premiered at the Houston Grand Opera, marking a significant moment in contemporary American opera. The work, which features a libretto by Alice Goodman, explores the historic visit of President Richard Nixon to China in 1972. This opera is recognized for its innovative musical style and thought-provoking themes. The premiere was attended by notable figures and generated considerable discussion about its political and cultural significance.

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Economics & Industry

Pennzoil's Record Judgment Against Texaco

November 19th, 1985 39 years ago

In a landmark legal battle, Pennzoil was awarded $10.53 billion from Texaco, marking the largest civil verdict in U.S. history. The case emerged from Texaco's acquisition of Getty Oil, which violated an existing agreement between Pennzoil and Getty. The trial revealed the intricacies of contractual obligations in large business deals and highlighted the tensions in the oil industry during the 1980s.

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