Historical Events tagged with "violence"

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

Sri Lankan Army Massacres Tamil Farm Workers

February 19th, 1986 39 years ago

In Akkaraipattu, eastern Sri Lanka, the Sri Lankan Army killed 80 Tamil farm workers. The incident stemmed from the ongoing ethnic conflict between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil population, exacerbated by military actions against perceived Tamil militancy. This brutal act highlighted the tensions and violence faced by the Tamil community during this period.

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Politics & Government

Violence Erupts in Aden's Political Struggle

January 13th, 1986 39 years ago

A fierce power struggle emerged in Aden, South Yemen, as supporters of former leader Ali Nasir Muhammad clashed with followers of Abdul Fattah Ismail. This violent clash was characterized by street fighting and widespread chaos as factions vied for control. It resulted in significant casualties, with reports suggesting thousands were affected. The confrontation escalated into a full-scale conflict, deeply impacting the political landscape of the region and revealing underlying tensions within the ruling party.

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Military & Warfare

Guerrillas Capture Bogotá's Palace of Justice

November 6th, 1985 39 years ago

Leftist guerrillas from the 19th of April Movement, known as M-19, launched an assault on the Palace of Justice in Bogotá, Colombia. The attack led to a violent takeover of the building, where key government officials were present. M-19 demanded a trial for President Belisario Betancur and sought to bring attention to their political goals. The siege lasted until military forces responded, resulting in a deadly confrontation.

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Crime & Law

Murder of Police Constable Keith Blakelock

October 6th, 1985 39 years ago

Police Constable Keith Blakelock was murdered during the Broadwater Farm riots in London. As racial tensions escalated amid ongoing community grievances, Blakelock and his colleagues responded to the unrest triggered by the police's treatment of a local resident. The violence in the area intensified, leading to a confrontation that resulted in Blakelock's tragic death, making him the first police officer to be killed during riots in London since the 1980s.

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Crime & Law

Larnaca Yacht Killings Involve PLO Supporters

September 25th, 1985 39 years ago

In Larnaca, three civilians were killed in a violent incident attributed to alleged supporters of the Palestine Liberation Organization. The attack occurred during a time of escalating tensions in the region, as the PLO was actively involved in various conflicts related to the Israeli-Palestinian issue. Eyewitness accounts reported gunfire erupting at the marina, leading to the tragic deaths and igniting debates over security and responsibility in the chaotic landscape of geopolitical strife.

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Politics & Government

M. Alalasundaram and V. Dharmalingam Shot Dead

September 2nd, 1985 39 years ago

M. Alalasundaram and V. Dharmalingam, prominent Sri Lankan Tamil politicians, were assassinated in Colombo, Sri Lanka. They were known for their active roles in advocating for Tamil rights during the escalating conflict in the region. Their murders were part of an ongoing violence that marked the early years of the Sri Lankan Civil War, reflecting the deep-seated tensions between the Tamil minority and the Sinhalese majority. This incident triggered further unrest and drew attention to the volatile political climate.

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Military & Warfare

Revolutionary Party Attack in Zona Rosa

June 19th, 1985 39 years ago

Members of the Revolutionary Party of Central American Workers disguised themselves as Salvadoran soldiers and launched an attack on the Zona Rosa area of San Salvador. This event involved an explosion of violence in a prominent section of the capital, known for its vibrant nightlife and commercial activities. The attackers aimed to disrupt the perceived safety and security of the elite area, sending a powerful message during the ongoing civil conflict in El Salvador. The incident showcased the bold tactics of guerrilla forces in their struggle against the government.

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Politics & Government

Failed Assassination Attempt on Cleric Fadlallah

March 8th, 1985 40 years ago

An assassination attempt targeting Sayyed Mohammad Hussein Fadlallah in Beirut led to an explosion that resulted in the deaths of 80 individuals and left around 200 others injured. The attack took place outside a mosque during a period of intense sectarian conflict in Lebanon, raising tensions and fears of escalating violence. Fadlallah, a prominent Shiite cleric, was known for his influence within the community, and the attack was believed to be politically motivated.

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Military & Warfare

IRA Mortar Attack on RUC in Newry

February 28th, 1985 40 years ago

Members of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) launched a mortar attack on the Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) police station in Newry, Northern Ireland, resulting in the deaths of nine police officers. The assault was part of the ongoing conflict between Irish republicans and British security forces, motivated by the IRA's goal of ending British rule in Northern Ireland. This incident marked one of the deadliest attacks against security forces during the Troubles, a period of conflict in Northern Ireland that spanned several decades.

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