What Happened This Year 1975

Historical Events from This Year 1975

Politics & Government

Prince Juan Carlos I Takes Over Leadership

October 30th, 1975 49 years ago

Prince Juan Carlos I of Spain assumed the role of acting head of state, succeeding the ailing dictator General Francisco Franco. This transition marked a vital moment in Spain's political landscape as Franco's health deteriorated, leading to a shift in leadership. Juan Carlos I had been groomed for this role, and his ascension to authority was seen as a pivotal step towards potential modernization and democratization of the nation.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of Four Bangladeshi Politicians

November 3rd, 1975 49 years ago

In Dhaka Central Jail, four prominent Bangladeshi politicians were assassinated by government forces as part of a purge. This occurred amid rising political tensions following the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The targeted politicians included leaders who were perceived as threats to the new regime and were detained at the jail. Their deaths symbolized a drastic shift in the power dynamics of the country and marked an era of increased repression.

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Politics & Government

Colonel Abu Taher Leads Uprising Against Regime

November 7th, 1975 49 years ago

A joint force of civilians and soldiers, led by Colonel Abu Taher, successfully orchestrated an uprising that ousted Brigadier Khaled Mosharraf and ended his reign. This revolt freed Major General Ziaur Rahman, the army chief who was under house arrest following earlier political unrest. The uprising showcased military solidarity and civilian involvement in reclaiming power and authority from a corrupt leadership, altering Bangladesh's political landscape.

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Politics & Government

UN General Assembly Declares Zionism Racism

November 10th, 1975 49 years ago

The United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 3379, which stated that Zionism is a form of racism and racial discrimination. This resolution was controversial and reflected the ongoing tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The discussion highlighted various geopolitical dynamics and was indicative of the divided opinions on the Israel-Palestine issue among UN member states. The vote resulted in a significant majority against Israel, with many nations from the Non-Aligned Movement supporting the resolution.

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Politics & Government

Yugoslavia and Italy Sign Treaty of Osimo

November 10th, 1975 49 years ago

The Treaty of Osimo was an agreement reached between Yugoslavia and Italy to resolve issues related to the territorial disputes following World War II. This treaty was primarily focused on the regions of Istria and the city of Trieste, promoting peaceful relations and economic cooperation. The treaty formalized the borders and aimed to promote stability in the region. It was signed in Osimo, Italy, by representatives from both nations, highlighting their commitment to mutual respect and avoiding conflict over the disputed areas.

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Accidents & Tragedies

SS Edmund Fitzgerald Sinks in Lake Superior

November 10th, 1975 49 years ago

The freighter SS Edmund Fitzgerald sank during a violent storm on Lake Superior, resulting in the loss of all 29 crew members aboard. The vessel, which was the largest on the Great Lakes, encountered treacherous weather conditions with waves reaching up to 25 feet. The ship, built in 1958, was on its final voyage carrying iron ore from Superior, Wisconsin, to Detroit, Michigan, when it met its tragic fate.

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Politics & Government

Angola Achieves Independence from Portugal

November 11th, 1975 49 years ago

Angola gained its independence from Portuguese colonial rule after a prolonged armed struggle. The war for independence began in 1961, led by several nationalist movements, notably the MPLA, UNITA, and FNLA. The final declaration of independence took place in Luanda, Angola's capital, marking a significant milestone in the decolonization process across Africa. The event was celebrated by thousands of Angolans who had fought for national sovereignty, transitioning from colonial rule to self-determination and national governance.

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Politics & Government

Governor-General Dismisses Whitlam Government

November 11th, 1975 49 years ago

Sir John Kerr, the Australian Governor-General, dismissed Prime Minister Gough Whitlam's government, leading to a political crisis. Following the dismissal, Kerr appointed Malcolm Fraser as caretaker Prime Minister and announced a general election to take place in early December. This unprecedented constitutional action set off nationwide debates about the powers of the Governor-General and the nature of Australian democracy during a time of political tumult.

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Politics & Government

Comoros Becomes a United Nations Member

November 12th, 1975 49 years ago

The Comoros officially joined the United Nations as a member state, marking its recognition on a global platform. This event followed its independence from France earlier that year, emphasizing the nation's commitment to sovereignty and international diplomacy. The decision to join the UN was met with optimism among the Comorian leaders and the population, who saw it as a step toward active participation in global affairs. The island nation, consisting of three main islands in the Indian Ocean, aimed to address development issues and strengthen its international relations through this membership.

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