What Happened This Year 1979
Historical Events from This Year 1979
False Alarm of Soviet Nuclear Strike
The NORAD computers wrongly detected a massive Soviet nuclear attack, prompting immediate alerts in the United States. Systems at the Alternate National Military Command Center in Fort Ritchie, Maryland, indicated the threat based on raw data analysis from satellites and early-warning radar information. Rapid communication and verification efforts led to the cancellation of the alert, averting a potential crisis without an actual enemy strike happening.
Continue ReadingCanadian Pacific Train Derails in Mississauga
A 106-car Canadian Pacific freight train derailed in Mississauga, Ontario, causing a significant incident due to the hazardous materials it carried. The train was transporting various explosive and poisonous chemicals from Windsor, Ontario, when it left the tracks, leading to a response from emergency services. Several cars were reported to have been damaged, resulting in evacuations of nearby areas to ensure public safety. The incident highlighted the risks associated with transporting hazardous materials by rail.
Continue ReadingCarter Halts Iranian Oil Imports
In a decisive reaction to the Iranian hostage crisis, U.S. President Jimmy Carter announced a complete halt to petroleum imports from Iran. This response aimed at exerting pressure on the Iranian government, which had taken American citizens hostage during a tense political situation. The decision marked a significant escalation in the United States' economic sanctions against Iran, reflecting the gravity of the hostage situation and the U.S. commitment to act against perceived aggressions toward its citizens.
Continue ReadingCarter Freezes Iranian Assets in US
In response to the Iran hostage crisis, US President Jimmy Carter issued Executive Order 12170, which froze all Iranian government assets in the United States. This financial action aimed to pressure Iran to release the hostages abducted from the US Embassy in Tehran on November 4, 1979. The order significantly impacted diplomatic relations and exacerbated tensions between the two nations during a turbulent period in their history.
Continue ReadingEmergency landing due to smoking package
A package from Ted Kaczynski began smoking in the cargo hold of a flight from Chicago to Washington, D.C., leading to an emergency landing. The flight crew noticed smoke emanating from the cargo area, prompting immediate action to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew. The plane diverted to a nearby airport and landed safely, where authorities investigated the suspicious package.
Continue ReadingBucharest Metro Line M1 Opens
The Bucharest Metro, specifically Line M1, was inaugurated, connecting the neighborhoods of Timpuri Noi and Semănătoarea. This significant advancement in urban transportation aimed to alleviate traffic congestion and improve access within the city. The line was opened as part of a broader plan to enhance public transport infrastructure in Romania, aligning with the country's strategies for modernization and urban development. The event marked a milestone in the city's public transport history, showcasing the efforts to provide a modern commuting solution to its residents.
Continue ReadingKhomeini Orders Release of American Hostages
Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini ordered the release of 13 American hostages held in the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, following a tumultuous period marked by the Iranian Revolution and tensions with the United States. This directive targeted female and black American hostages specifically, reflecting an effort to project a sense of moderation amidst ongoing strife. The hostages had been part of a larger group taken captive during the embassy takeover that began in November of 1979. Their release marked a rare moment of goodwill and was celebrated by various factions within Iran.
Continue ReadingGrand Mosque Seizure by Sunni Muslims
Around 200 Sunni Muslims took control of the Grand Mosque in Mecca during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, seizing approximately 6,000 hostages. The group objected to the Saudi government’s policies, catalyzing a dramatic standoff with authorities. The Saudi government, facing an unprecedented crisis, sought assistance from French special forces to regain control, culminating in a significant military operation within one of Islam's holiest sites.
Continue ReadingAttack on the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad
A mob attacked the United States Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan, setting the building ablaze and resulting in the deaths of four individuals. The incident stemmed from protests against American foreign policy and support for the Shah of Iran following his removal. The embassy was heavily damaged, highlighting the rising tensions in the region.
Continue Reading