Historical Events tagged with "university"

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.

Accidents & Tragedies

Wichita State University Football Team Plane Crash

October 2nd, 1970 54 years ago

An aircraft carrying the Wichita State University football team, along with coaches and supporters, tragically crashed in Colorado, resulting in the loss of 31 lives. The flight was returning from a game in Utah when it encountered severe weather. The crash occurred near Silver Plume, Colorado, due to difficult flying conditions, highlighting the risks associated with small aircraft operations in adverse weather.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Sterling Hall Bombing by Vietnam War Protesters

August 24th, 1970 54 years ago

On August 24, 1970, a group of anti-Vietnam War activists bombed Sterling Hall at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. The attack was a protest against the University’s involvement in military research and resulted in significant damage to the hall. The bombing was carried out by individuals identifying as part of the radical Left and was primarily motivated by opposition to the Vietnam War and the military-industrial complex. Although intended as a form of political expression, the bombing tragically resulted in one death and several injuries.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Columbia University Student Protest Takeover

April 23rd, 1968 56 years ago

Student protesters at Columbia University took over administration buildings and shut down the university in response to the Vietnam War and campus policies. The protests were part of a broader national movement against U.S. involvement in Vietnam, reflecting rising tensions and dissatisfaction within the student body. Activists called for an end to the university's involvement in military research and protested against the construction of a gymnasium in a nearby public park.

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Crime & Law

Charles Whitman kills 15 at UT Austin

August 1st, 1966 58 years ago

Charles Whitman, a former Marine, climbed the University of Texas Tower and opened fire on students and faculty, killing 15 and injuring 31. The incident lasted for 96 minutes, during which police and civilians attempted to stop the shooting. Whitman was eventually shot and killed by police officers. His motives were complex, involving both personal issues and potential mental health struggles. This act of violence shocked the nation and raised awareness about gun control and mental health.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Berkeley Students Arrested in Free Speech Protest

December 4th, 1964 60 years ago

Students at the University of California, Berkeley staged a sit-in at the administration building to protest a ban on demonstrations. Over 800 students were arrested following the peaceful takeover, which highlighted their demands for free speech rights on campus. The protest was a response to the UC Regents' prohibition against political activity on university property.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Launch of the Free Speech Movement

October 1st, 1964 60 years ago

Students at the University of California, Berkeley, organized a campaign advocating for the right to free speech and political activism on campus. The movement began when university administration restricted student political activities, sparking protests and sit-ins. The students, led by figures such as Mario Savio, demanded the freedom to engage in political discourse and activism. The events escalated quickly, marking a significant moment in student activism and free speech rights.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

James Meredith graduates from University of Mississippi

August 18th, 1963 61 years ago

James Meredith made history as the first African American to graduate from the University of Mississippi, overcoming significant resistance. Despite violent protests and challenges while enrolling, he completed his studies and graduated with a degree in political science, symbolizing a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

James Meredith Defies Segregation at University

October 1st, 1962 62 years ago

James Meredith, an African American, entered the University of Mississippi amid violent protests and federal intervention. This bold act of defiance against segregation marked a significant moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Meredith's enrollment was met with fierce opposition from segregationists, including the state's governor, Ross Barnett, who attempted to block his admission. Eventually, federal forces were dispatched to ensure his safety and protect his right to attend the university.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Court Orders James Meredith's Admission to University

September 13th, 1962 62 years ago

An appeals court mandated the University of Mississippi to admit James Meredith, who had been denied entry to the racially segregated institution. This ruling came after a series of legal battles highlighting the systemic discrimination faced by African-Americans in education. Meredith, a veteran, became determined to enroll at the university, challenging the status quo of segregation in the South and pushing for equal rights in education.

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