What Happened This Year 1970

Historical Events from This Year 1970

Social Movements & Civil Rights

César Chávez Leads Largest Farm Worker Strike

August 23rd, 1970 54 years ago

César Chávez organized the Salad Bowl strike, which became the largest farm worker strike in American history, involving thousands of agricultural workers across California. This movement aimed to secure better wages and working conditions for laborers in the fields. The strike highlighted the struggles of migrant farm workers and called for a boycott of non-union produce, urging consumers to support the demands for fair treatment and sustainability in agriculture.

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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

Nationwide Women's Strike for Equality

August 26th, 1970 54 years ago

A nationwide Women's Strike for Equality, commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of women's suffrage in the United States, takes place as thousands of women march in cities across the nation, advocating for equal rights and opportunities. Organizers aim to highlight ongoing gender inequalities, focusing on issues such as pay equity, reproductive rights, and employment opportunities. The strike draws attention to the need for legislative reforms and changes in societal attitudes toward women, emphasizing the importance of equality in the workplace and at home.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Chicano Moratorium and Police Riot

August 29th, 1970 54 years ago

A large demonstration against the Vietnam War took place in East Los Angeles, drawing a diverse crowd protesting the disproportionate impact on the Chicano community. Tensions escalated with law enforcement leading to a violent clash that resulted in the deaths of three individuals, including journalist Rubén Salazar, who was killed by a sheriff's deputy. The unrest highlighted the rising frustrations over racial discrimination, police brutality, and the Vietnam War's toll on minority communities.

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Space Exploration

Cancellation of Apollo 15 and Apollo 19 Missions

September 2nd, 1970 54 years ago

NASA announced the cancellation of Apollo 15 and Apollo 19, missions intended for lunar exploration. The decision followed budgetary constraints and shifting priorities within the space program. Apollo 15's mission designation was later reused for a subsequent crewed flight. This strategic change also reflected evolving goals in the space race, as NASA pivoted towards other scientific endeavors and the impending Skylab program.

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Politics & Government

Salvador Allende Becomes Chile's President

September 4th, 1970 54 years ago

Salvador Allende was elected President of Chile after a significant political campaign led by his coalition, Unidad Popular. Allende, a socialist doctor, won the election with a plurality of votes, emphasizing reforms and nationalization of industries. His coming to power marked the first time an openly socialist candidate was elected to the presidency of a Latin American country through a democratic election, inspiring movements across the region.

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Military & Warfare

Operation Jefferson Glenn Launches in Vietnam

September 5th, 1970 54 years ago

Operation Jefferson Glenn involved the United States 101st Airborne Division and the South Vietnamese 1st Infantry Division as they initiated military operations in Thừa Thiên–Huế Province. This combined effort aimed to disrupt enemy supply lines and establish control in the region as part of ongoing efforts to combat North Vietnamese forces. The operation was strategically significant in bolstering the defensive capabilities of South Vietnamese troops while aiming to secure the area from communist infiltration.

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Politics & Government

Simultaneous Hijackings by Palestinian Terrorists

September 6th, 1970 54 years ago

Two passenger jets traveling from Europe to New York were hijacked by members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) and diverted to Dawson's Field in Jordan. This incident marked the beginning of a series of high-profile hijackings intended to gain international attention for the Palestinian cause. The hijackers, using weapons and explosives, took control of the aircraft, leading to a tense standoff with authorities and a major diplomatic crisis.

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Arts & Culture

Establishment of Vietnam Television Network

September 7th, 1970 54 years ago

Vietnam Television, known as VTV, was established to provide national broadcast services. It aimed to enhance communication and cultural exchange within Vietnam amidst the ongoing socio-political changes. The establishment of VTV marked a significant step in developing media in North Vietnam, serving to inform and entertain the populace during a crucial period in the nation's history.

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