What Happened This Year 1981
Historical Events from This Year 1981 (View all 110)
Greece Joins the European Community
Greece officially became a member of the European Community, marking a significant step in its integration into European political and economic structures. This accession allowed Greece to participate fully in the Community's policies, while aiming to benefit from economic growth and stability. Efforts to join were driven by the desire for modernization and strengthened ties with European nations following years of political turmoil.
Continue ReadingArrest of Serial Killer Peter Sutcliffe
Peter Sutcliffe, infamously known as the Yorkshire Ripper, was arrested by police in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. His capture concluded one of the most extensive investigations by a British police force, which sought to apprehend the perpetrator responsible for a series of brutal murders of women across Northern England. This arrest marked a significant breakthrough in a case that had terrified communities and strained police resources for several years.
Continue ReadingLocal Farmer's UFO Sighting in Provence
A farmer in Trans-en-Provence, France reported an extraordinary sighting of an unidentified flying object. During the incident, he observed a triangular craft hovering nearby, followed by a physical effect on his surrounding environment. The event was thoroughly documented and investigated, leading to a notable increase in UFO sightings across the region. This report is often regarded as one of the most credible and meticulously detailed UFO cases in history, highlighting the farmer's detailed observations and physical evidence collected at the scene.
Continue ReadingFMLN's Major Offensive in El Salvador
The Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front (FMLN) executed a significant military campaign against the Salvadoran government in early October, capturing strategic territories in the Morazán and Chalatenango departments. This offensive marked a pivotal moment in the Salvadoran Civil War, showcasing the FMLN's growing military capabilities and their commitment to overthrowing the government. The operation involved coordinated attacks on several key locations, and it heightened the intensity of the ongoing conflict, influencing both national and international perceptions of the civil war.
Continue ReadingPope John Paul II Meets Solidarity Delegation
Pope John Paul II hosted a delegation from the Polish trade union Solidarity at the Vatican, led by Lech Wałęsa. This meeting was crucial as it reflected the Pope's support for the union during a time of political tension in Poland. The gathering highlighted the shared concerns for workers' rights and the quest for freedom in a communist state, further strengthening the ties between the Catholic Church and the Solidarity movement.
Continue ReadingFerdinand Marcos Lifts Martial Law in the Philippines
Ferdinand Marcos officially lifted martial law, restoring civil liberties in the Philippines after over eight years of authoritarian rule. The announcement came amidst a climate of political repression and social inequality. Marcos justified the action by citing improved stability and the need for national progress, though critics viewed it as a tactical move to consolidate power. The lifting of martial law was celebrated by many but was also met with skepticism from opposition groups, which feared continued political manipulation.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1981 (View all 833)
Zsolt Baumgartner
Born in Hungary, this racing driver competed in Formula One, achieving significant milestones during his career. Debuted in Formula One at the 2003 Australian Grand Prix, becoming the first Hungarian to race in the series. Competed for the Minardi team during the 2003 and 2004 seasons.
Continue ReadingMladen Petrić
Career in professional football spanned from 1998 to 2019, primarily playing as a forward. Played for teams such as Hamburger SV and FC Basel, achieving success in various leagues. Represented the Croatian national team, participating in major tournaments like UEFA Euro 2008 and FIFA World Cup 2014. Transitioned to coaching after retirement.
Continue ReadingEden Riegel
An actress, recognized for work in daytime television. Riegel portrayed Bianca Montgomery on the soap opera 'All My Children' from 2000 to 2005 and reprised the role briefly in 2011. She also provided voice work for animated series and video games. Riegel participated in various stage productions and is credited with contributions to the industry through her performances.
Continue ReadingKirk Hinrich
Played professional basketball in the NBA, primarily for the Chicago Bulls. Played as a point guard and had a successful collegiate career at the University of Kansas, where he led the team to the NCAA Final Four in 2002 and 2003. Drafted 7th overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 2003 NBA Draft. Throughout his NBA career, contributed significantly to the team’s performance and was recognized for his skills as a defender and playmaker.
Continue ReadingMaxi Rodríguez
A professional footballer from Argentina, contributed significantly to the sport as a winger. Played for several clubs including Newell's Old Boys, Espanyol, Villarreal, Atlético de Madrid, and Liverpool. Achieved notable success with Liverpool, winning the FA Cup in 2006. Represented Argentina at multiple international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup in 2006 and 2014, and the Copa América in 2004 and 2011. Scored a memorable extra-time goal against Mexico in the 2006 World Cup, enhancing reputation on the global stage.
Continue ReadingEli Manning
A former professional American football quarterback, played most of career for the New York Giants in the National Football League (NFL). In 2004, selected as the first overall pick in the NFL Draft by the Giants. Achieved significant success during tenure, highlighted by victories in Super Bowl XLII and Super Bowl XLVI against the New England Patriots. Garnered Super Bowl MVP honors in both championship games. Retired from professional football in 2020 after 16 seasons in the league.
Continue ReadingPeople Who Died in 1981 (View all 264)
Sam Jones
A distinguished bassist, cellist, and composer contributed significantly to jazz music. Worked with various prominent artists and ensembles, showcasing exceptional talent both as a performer and as a composer. Best known for collaborations with jazz greats including Thelonious Monk and Art Blakey. Gained recognition for uniquely blending jazz elements with classical techniques. Made significant contributions to the genre through both recorded works and live performances.
Continue ReadingHephzibah Menuhin
A celebrated pianist, she gained recognition for her performances and contributions to music education. Trained in the classical tradition, she showcased her talent across the United States and Australia. Aside from performing, she dedicated a significant portion of her life to teaching and mentoring young musicians. She was a prominent figure in the musical community and contributed to various educational programs aimed at fostering the next generation of artists.
Continue ReadingPrincess Alice
Born into the British royal family, served as the last Governor-General of Ireland from 1922 to 1928. Engaged in various charitable activities during her tenure, focusing on social welfare and the arts. Active in the royal family, made contributions to public life and British society. Played a significant role in the republican transition in Ireland and was a key figure in social improvement initiatives throughout her life.
Continue ReadingLanza del Vasto
An Italian poet and philosopher contributed significantly to literature and thought. Founded the Community of the Ark in 1948, a movement focused on non-violence and communal living. Explored themes of spirituality, pacifism, and social justice throughout works such as 'Il Mondo è una Casa' and 'La Sapienza del corpo'. Engaged in various social and political issues, advocating for peace and dialogue across cultures. Engaged with figures like Mahatma Gandhi and reflected these influences in writings and philosophies.
Continue ReadingHarold Urey
A prominent American chemist and astronomer, contributions focused on isotopic chemistry and nuclear physics. Developed methods for separating isotopes and played a significant role in the Manhattan Project. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1934 for the discovery of deuterium, an isotope of hydrogen. Served as a professor at several universities, including Columbia University and the University of California, Berkeley.
Continue ReadingA. J. Cronin
A Scottish physician and author gained recognition for writing novels that explored the medical profession. Practitioner experience informed literary works, often depicting the struggles and ethical dilemmas faced by doctors. The most notable work, 'The Citadel,' published in 1937, highlighted the challenges within the healthcare system and influenced future medical reforms. Other significant novels include 'Hatter's Castle' and 'Key Above the Door,' both of which contributed to the author's prominence in the literary field. Cronin's works received widespread acclaim and adaptations into film and theatre, solidifying a legacy in both literature and popular culture.
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