What Happened This Year 1977

Historical Events from This Year 1977

Science & Technology

Apple Computer's Founding Marks Tech Innovation

January 3rd, 1977 48 years ago

Apple Computer was incorporated by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne in Cupertino, California. This marked the official start of a company that would go on to revolutionize personal computing. The vision of the founders was to create user-friendly computers that could be accessible to a broader range of people, and their first product, the Apple I, was sold as a motherboard in a wooden case. The incorporation solidified their commitment to their mission of gadget innovation and user-friendly technology.

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Crime & Law

Bombings in Moscow Attributed to Separatists

January 8th, 1977 48 years ago

Three bombs exploded within 37 minutes in Moscow, claiming seven lives and injuring many others. The bombs were placed at various locations in the city and were linked to an Armenian separatist group advocating for independence. This attack highlighted the increasing tensions within the Soviet Union regarding ethnic nationalities seeking autonomy, specifically the Armenians who faced historical grievances.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Japan Air Lines Cargo Flight 1045 Crash

January 13th, 1977 48 years ago

During takeoff from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, a Douglas DC-8 operated as Japan Air Lines Cargo Flight 1045 crashed onto the runway, resulting in the deaths of five individuals. The aircraft was carrying cargo and lost control shortly after takeoff, leading to a catastrophic failure. Rescue efforts were initiated immediately but were impeded by adverse conditions, complicating the response.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Linjeflyg Flight 618 Crash in Kälvesta

January 15th, 1977 48 years ago

Linjeflyg Flight 618 crashed in Kälvesta, Stockholm, resulting in the deaths of 22 individuals. The aircraft, a Fokker F28 Fellowship, experienced difficulties shortly after takeoff from Bromma Airport. Witnesses reported seeing the plane losing altitude before descending rapidly and crashing in a residential area. The incident raised concerns about aviation safety and highlighted the need for more stringent regulations.

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Crime & Law

Gary Gilmore Executed by Firing Squad

January 17th, 1977 48 years ago

Gary Gilmore, convicted of murder, was executed by firing squad in Utah, marking the resumption of capital punishment in the United States after a decade-long hiatus. His execution sparked national debate over the death penalty and its morality, becoming a pivotal moment in American criminal justice.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Tragic Plane Crash in Bosnia and Herzegovina

January 18th, 1977 48 years ago

Džemal Bijedić, the Prime Minister of SFR Yugoslavia, was killed in a plane crash alongside his wife and six others in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The aircraft, a Fokker F27, encountered severe weather conditions while approaching the city of Mostar. The crash resulted in the complete loss of life on board, marking a significant moment in Yugoslav political history.

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Health & Medicine

CDC Identifies Bacterium Behind Legionnaires' Disease

January 18th, 1977 48 years ago

Scientists at the CDC announced a breakthrough in understanding Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by the newly identified bacterium, Legionella pneumophila. This bacterium was found to thrive in warm water environments, which raised concerns about public health, particularly in settings with large water systems. The discovery was crucial for preventing outbreaks that had previously caused illness and fatalities, particularly among elderly individuals. It opened avenues for research and increased awareness about the risks associated with this type of infection.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Granville Rail Disaster in Sydney

January 18th, 1977 48 years ago

A commuter train derailed in Granville, Sydney, resulting in loss of life and severe injuries. The incident occurred during peak hours when a packed train traveling towards the city collided with concrete supports of a bridge, causing the train to derail. Emergency services responded rapidly, but the scale of the disaster demanded extensive rescue and recovery efforts. At least 83 people lost their lives in this tragic accident, making it one of the worst rail disasters in Australian history.

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Politics & Government

Ford Pardons Iva Toguri D'Aquino

January 19th, 1977 48 years ago

Iva Toguri D'Aquino, known as 'Tokyo Rose,' was pardoned by President Gerald Ford in a significant political move. Toguri, an American citizen born in Los Angeles, was convicted in 1949 for treason related to her activities as a radio broadcaster during World War II, purportedly providing propaganda to Japanese troops. After years of fighting to clear her name, her pardon came during Ford's final days in office.

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