What Happened This Year 1975

Historical Events from This Year 1975

Politics & Government

Violence Erupts in Lima Amid Police Strike

February 5th, 1975 50 years ago

Following a police strike, riots erupted in Lima, Peru, leading to severe unrest and chaos. The military responded forcefully to suppress the uprising, which locals referred to as the Limazo. Demonstrators engaged in confrontations with military troops as they protested against the oppressive regime. The crackdown resulted in numerous injuries and fatalities, highlighting the tensions within the society at the time.

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Space Exploration

Soyuz 17 Successfully Returns to Earth

February 9th, 1975 50 years ago

Soyuz 17, a crewed Soviet spacecraft, successfully landed in Kazakhstan after completing a 12-day mission in space. The team, consisting of cosmonauts Georgi Dobrovolskiy and Viktor Patsayev, conducted various scientific experiments and maintenance on the Salyut 4 space station. Their return was marked by a precision landing, showcasing advancements in Soviet space technology. The mission further solidified the Soviet Union's position in the space race against the United States.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Fire Breaks Out in North Tower of WTC

February 13th, 1975 50 years ago

A fire ignited in the North Tower of the World Trade Center due to welding work, escalating rapidly and affecting multiple floors. Emergency services responded swiftly, battling the blaze and conducting evacuations. Notably, the fire claimed the lives of several firefighters. The incident raised significant concerns regarding safety and fire regulations in high-rise buildings amidst the bustling environment of New York City.

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Politics & Government

Mitchell, Haldeman, and Ehrlichman Sentenced

February 21st, 1975 50 years ago

Former United States Attorney General John N. Mitchell and former White House aides H. R. Haldeman and John Ehrlichman received prison sentences for their involvement in the Watergate scandal. The scandal, which began with a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters, unearthed a series of illegal activities by members of the Nixon administration. After being convicted of conspiracy, obstruction of justice, and perjury, Mitchell was sentenced to 2½ years, while Haldeman and Ehrlichman each received sentences of 2 to 4 years. Their accountability marked a pivotal moment in the scandal’s legal ramifications.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Moorgate Underground Train Crash Incident

February 28th, 1975 50 years ago

An underground train failed to stop at Moorgate terminus, crashing into the end of the tunnel in London. This incident occurred during the morning rush hour, resulting in 43 fatalities and numerous injuries. Emergency services arrived swiftly, evacuating survivors and responding to the chaos within the station. The cause of the accident prompted investigations into potential mechanical failures and human error, leading to discussions about safety protocols and procedures on the London Underground.

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Politics & Government

First Public Viewing of Zapruder Film

March 6th, 1975 50 years ago

Robert J. Groden and Dick Gregory presented the Zapruder film of President John F. Kennedy's assassination on national television. This marked the first time that the film was shown in motion to the public. The broadcast, which aired on the program 'Good Night America,' aimed to highlight questions surrounding the official narrative of the assassination and to promote further investigation into the events of that tragic day in Dallas.

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Politics & Government

Iran and Iraq Settle Border Dispute

March 6th, 1975 50 years ago

In an effort to resolve longstanding tensions, Iran and Iraq signed the Algiers Accord, a landmark agreement addressing their border disputes, particularly over the Shatt al-Arab waterway. The talks were facilitated by Algeria, leading to mutual concessions and a commitment to uphold peace. Both nations emerged with a firmer understanding of their frontiers and an agreement to foster cooperation, marking a significant diplomatic achievement in a historically fractious relationship.

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Military & Warfare

North Vietnamese Attack on Ban Mê Thuột

March 10th, 1975 50 years ago

North Vietnamese troops launched a significant offensive against Ban Mê Thuôt in the Central Highlands of South Vietnam as part of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign. This assault marked a crucial step toward the eventual siege of Saigon, illustrating the North Vietnamese strategy of rapid advances in key locations. The attack, characterized by overwhelming numbers and coordinated tactics, resulted in the fall of the city just days later, contributing to the momentum of the communist forces in the final phases of the Vietnam War.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Fire Incident at Browns Ferry Nuclear Power Plant

March 22nd, 1975 49 years ago

A significant fire broke out at the Browns Ferry Nuclear Power Plant, which is located in Decatur, Alabama. The incident resulted in a dangerous reduction in cooling water levels crucial for the plant's reactor safety. The fire, caused by the accidental ignition of a material used for insulation, was detected quickly. However, the plant's emergency systems were not fully operational. Fortunately, plant personnel were able to manage the situation without leading to a nuclear crisis.

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