Historical Events tagged with "united states"

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

President Bush Announces Liberation of Kuwait

February 27th, 1991 34 years ago

U.S. President George H. W. Bush declared Kuwait liberated after coalition forces' decisive military victories against Iraqi troops. This announcement marked the end of Operation Desert Storm, a rapid combat operation that began just weeks prior. It signified the restoration of Kuwait's sovereignty following its invasion by Iraq, which had taken place in August. Bush's address was delivered from the White House and highlighted the commitment of the United States and its allies to uphold international law and support for oppressed nations.

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Military & Warfare

Start of Operation Desert Storm

January 17th, 1991 34 years ago

Early in the morning, U.S. aircraft launched airstrikes across Iraq marking the beginning of Operation Desert Storm. This operation featured the first major combat sortie for the F-117 stealth aircraft. LCDR Scott Speicher's F/A-18C Hornet from VFA-81 was shot down by a Mig-25, making him the first American casualty of the conflict. Concurrently, Iraq fired eight Scud missiles into Israel, attempting to provoke an Israeli response, though this tactic was unsuccessful.

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Military & Warfare

Coalition Forces Launch Operation Desert Storm

January 16th, 1991 34 years ago

Coalition forces under U.S. command launched Operation Desert Storm against Iraq. Following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August 1990, the United Nations imposed sanctions on Iraq, leading to a military response. Starting with extensive aerial bombardment, the operation aimed to liberate Kuwait. The coalition included forces from over 30 countries, showcasing international collaboration.

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Military & Warfare

U.S. Congress Authorizes Military Action Against Iraq

January 12th, 1991 34 years ago

The U.S. Congress voted to authorize the use of military force against Iraq to liberate Kuwait, following Iraq's invasion. This decision took place amid escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf region, as President George H.W. Bush sought support for the coalition forces. The vote was characterized by the urgency of restoring Kuwait's sovereignty after its annexation by Iraq, initiating a global response aimed at addressing the aggression.

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Politics & Government

US and Iraq Pursue Peace in Geneva

January 9th, 1991 34 years ago

Representatives from the United States and Iraq gathered to discuss a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict stemming from Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. This meeting aimed to address the tensions that had escalated since the invasion in August 1990 and sought to open lines of communication to potentially negotiate a ceasefire. The Geneva Peace Conference was a significant platform for both parties to express their positions and explore diplomatic solutions to restore peace and stability in the region.

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Politics & Government

Sharon Pratt Dixon becomes D.C. Mayor

January 2nd, 1991 34 years ago

Sharon Pratt Dixon made history by being inaugurated as the first African American woman mayor of a major U.S. city, taking office in Washington D.C. Her election to the mayorship was a significant milestone in the representation of women and minorities in politics, highlighting the changing landscape of leadership in urban America. Dixon's administration focused on urban renewal, crime reduction, and economic development, reflecting the needs of the diverse D.C. population during her term.

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Military & Warfare

YF-22 Prototype Makes Inaugural Flight

September 29th, 1990 34 years ago

The YF-22, a prototype fighter aircraft developed by Lockheed, made its maiden flight in California. Designed to showcase advanced stealth and supercruise capabilities, the YF-22 was a product of the Advanced Tactical Fighter program initiated by the United States Air Force. During this flight, Test Pilot Beryl A. Sumpter took the aircraft to an altitude of 15,000 feet. The successful flight marked a significant milestone in military aviation technology and laid the groundwork for the F-22 Raptor.

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Politics & Government

Bush and Gorbachev Sign Chemical Weapons Treaty

June 1st, 1990 34 years ago

George H. W. Bush and Mikhail Gorbachev signed a treaty aimed at significantly reducing the production of chemical weapons. The agreement marked a significant step toward disarmament during the Cold War period, showcasing the improving relationship between the United States and the Soviet Union. The treaty emphasized cooperation and mutual commitment to ending the production of chemical arms, representing a broader shift toward a new era of diplomatic engagement.

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Accidents & Tragedies

EMB 120 Brasilia and Cessna 172 Mid-Air Collision

April 9th, 1990 35 years ago

An Embraer EMB 120 Brasilia collided mid-air with a Cessna 172 over Gadsden, Alabama, resulting in the death of both occupants in the Cessna. The collision occurred under unclear circumstances as both aircraft were operating in the same airspace. Witnesses reported seeing the two planes colliding before both fell to the ground. The investigation focused on safety protocols and air traffic control communications in the region.

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