What Happened This Year 1974

Historical Events from This Year 1974

Accidents & Tragedies

Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 6231 Crash

December 1st, 1974 50 years ago

Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 6231, a Boeing 727, crashed northwest of John F. Kennedy International Airport shortly after takeoff due to a series of uncontrolled maneuvers. The aircraft had taken off carrying cargo and was scheduled for an immediate return. The crash resulted in the loss of all four crew members onboard.

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Accidents & Tragedies

TWA Flight 514 Boeing 727 Crash Details

December 1st, 1974 50 years ago

TWA Flight 514, a Boeing 727, crashed on its approach to Dulles International Airport. The aircraft was attempting to land when it struck a hillside approximately 6 miles northwest of the airport. All 92 passengers and crew members on board perished in the accident. The cause was determined to be pilot error due to a misjudgment of the aircraft's altitude while navigating through low visibility conditions. This incident raised significant concerns regarding aviation safety and procedures.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Martinair Flight 138's Fatal Crash in Sri Lanka

December 4th, 1974 50 years ago

Martinair Flight 138, a chartered flight from Amsterdam to Male, crashed into the Saptha Kanya mountain range in Maskeliya, Sri Lanka, killing all 191 people on board. The McDonnell Douglas DC-8 was descending for landing when it encountered severe weather conditions, leading to a loss of control. Mistakes in navigation and communication with air traffic control contributed to the tragedy, marking one of the deadliest aviation accidents in Sri Lankan history.

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Politics & Government

Greece Abolishes Monarchy Through Plebiscite

December 8th, 1974 50 years ago

In a decisive plebiscite, the Greek people voted to abolish the monarchy, transforming the nation's political landscape. The referendum held on December 8, 1974, saw overwhelming support for the republic, marking the end of King Constantine II's reign and signifying a new era in Greece following the years of military dictatorship. This pivotal moment was the culmination of a long struggle for democracy, reflecting the citizens' desire for a more modern political system and governance.

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Military & Warfare

North Vietnam Launches 1975 Spring Offensive

December 13th, 1974 50 years ago

In early 1975, North Vietnamese forces initiated their Spring Offensive, marking a strategic push against South Vietnam. The offensive aimed to capitalize on the weakening South Vietnamese military, targeting key cities and supply routes. The plan involved coordinated attacks that overwhelmed South Vietnamese defenses, leading to severe territorial losses for the South. The conflict escalated as U.S. support diminished, causing fear and uncertainty among South Vietnamese citizens and government. The offensive set the stage for the eventual fall of Saigon in April 1975, concluding a prolonged period of warfare between the two nations.

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Politics & Government

Malta Declares Republic in Commonwealth

December 13th, 1974 50 years ago

Malta transitioned to a republic within the Commonwealth, ending its previous constitution. This change was marked by a ceremony in Valletta, highlighting Malta's independence and commitment to its democratic future.

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Politics & Government

Nelson Rockefeller's Ascension to Vice Presidency

December 19th, 1974 50 years ago

Nelson Rockefeller was sworn in as Vice President of the United States under President Gerald Ford, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Spiro Agnew. The swearing-in took place in a ceremony held at the White House. Rockefeller was chosen as part of a smooth succession under the provisions set forth in the Twenty-fifth Amendment. This was a significant moment as it marked the first time that a Vice President was confirmed following the amendment’s adoption in 1967, which addressed issues related to presidential succession.

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Politics & Government

Comoros Vote for Independence from France

December 22nd, 1974 50 years ago

Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli voted to become independent from France, establishing the Union of the Comoros. In this decisive referendum, a majority preferred independence over continued colonial rule, while Mayotte opted to remain under French administration. The decision marked a significant step towards self-determination for the archipelago in the Indian Ocean.

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Politics & Government

IRA Attack on Edward Heath's Residence

December 22nd, 1974 50 years ago

Members of the Provisional IRA attacked the residence of Edward Heath, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, in December 1974. The attack involved explosive devices, and despite the targeted nature, there were no casualties. The incident was part of a broader campaign by the Provisional IRA against those perceived to be involved in British rule in Northern Ireland. Heath was not present at the time of the attack, and his home was significantly damaged.

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