What Happened This Year 1960
Historical Events from This Year 1960
Sukarno Dissolves Indonesian Parliament for DPR-GR
Indonesian President Sukarno dismissed the Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat, the democratically elected parliament established in 1955, and replaced it with the Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat Gotong Royong (DPR-GR). This new parliament was composed of members specifically appointed by Sukarno, marking a significant shift in Indonesia's political landscape. The change aimed to consolidate power and facilitate his guided democracy concept, reflecting Sukarno's desire for greater control over the government and its policies.
Continue ReadingFirst Implant of Scribner's Hemodialysis Shunt
Dr. Belding Hibbard Scribner successfully implants a vascular shunt into a patient, a groundbreaking procedure that allows the patient to undergo regular hemodialysis. This innovation is pivotal for patients with kidney failure, as it provides a reliable method for blood access, revolutionizing renal care. The shunt enables multiple dialysis sessions without repeated punctures, greatly improving patient comfort and treatment efficiency.
Continue ReadingEisenhower Approves Anti-Cuban Covert Operation
President Dwight D. Eisenhower approved a National Security Council directive that authorized a covert action program aimed at Cuba. This decision was aimed at undermining the communist government of Fidel Castro, who had taken power in Cuba. The covert actions included training Cuban exiles and planned military operations designed to destabilize Castro's regime. This directive set the stage for events that would escalate into a significant military operation in the form of the Bay of Pigs Invasion, marking a crucial point in U.S.-Cuban relations during the Cold War.
Continue ReadingNorthwest Orient Airlines Flight 710 Crash
Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 710, a Lockheed L-188 Electra, crashed in Tobin Township, Indiana, killing all 63 people on board. The flight was en route from New York to Seattle when it encountered inclement weather. Poor visibility led to the tragic accident as the plane descended into a wooded area approximately nine miles south of the intended airport.
Continue ReadingSharpeville Massacre and Its Aftermath
In Sharpeville, South Africa, police opened fire on a group of black South African demonstrators protesting against apartheid pass laws. The shooting resulted in 69 deaths and approximately 180 injuries, marking a significant turning point in the struggle against racial oppression in the country. The demonstrators had gathered peacefully, yet police declared the gathering illegal, leading to the tragic outburst of violence that shocked the nation and the world.
Continue ReadingFirst Patent for Laser Granted to Inventors
Arthur Leonard Schawlow and Charles Hard Townes were awarded the first patent for a laser, a revolutionary technology that utilizes stimulated emission of radiation. This invention marked a significant milestone in optical physics and engineering, opening up new avenues in various fields including telecommunications, medicine, and manufacturing. The laser's ability to produce coherent light changed the way scientists and engineers approached projects involving precision and efficiency.
Continue ReadingFirst Television Picture Transmitted from Space
The TIROS-1 satellite successfully transmitted the first television picture from space, showcasing a view of cloud cover over the Pacific Ocean. Launched by NASA, TIROS-1 marked a significant milestone in Earth observation capabilities and technology. The satellite functioned as a proof of concept for using space-based platforms to monitor weather patterns. This achievement demonstrated the potential for utilizing satellite technology for meteorological purposes and paved the way for future advancements in satellite communications.
Continue ReadingMali Federation Gains Independence from France
On April 4, 1960, France officially granted independence to the Mali Federation, which consisted of Senegal and French Sudan (now Mali). This marked a significant step towards self-governance for the region, as it reflected the broader wave of decolonization occurring across Africa during the mid-20th century. The decision followed negotiations between French authorities and local leaders, reflecting the growing push for independence by African nations from colonial rule.
Continue ReadingAgreement on German Land and Wiedergutmachung
The Netherlands and West Germany reached an agreement to negotiate the return of German territories annexed by the Netherlands post-World War II. The negotiation was marked by a settlement amounting to 280 million German marks as Wiedergutmachung, or compensation for damages and losses. This agreement underscored the ongoing responsibilities and reparations related to the conflict and aimed to restore diplomatic relations between the nations, focusing on reconciliation and reparative actions after the disruptions of the war.
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