What Happened This Year 1981

Historical Events from This Year 1981

Accidents & Tragedies

Turkish F-5 Crash Kills Crew and Soldiers

September 22nd, 1981 43 years ago

A Turkish Air Force Northrop F-5 aircraft crashed in Babaeski, resulting from pilot error during a military exercise. The incident claimed the life of one crew member and tragically resulted in the deaths of 65 soldiers on the ground. This catastrophic event highlighted the risks associated with military training and the implications of technical failures in aviation.

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Politics & Government

Belize Becomes a United Nations Member State

September 25th, 1981 43 years ago

Belize formally joined the United Nations, enhancing its global presence and diplomatic relations. This milestone marked a significant step for the small Central American nation, bolstering its international legitimacy and commitment to global cooperation. The United Nations membership offered Belize a platform to engage with other nations and address issues of development, security, and environmental conservation.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Crash of Iranian C-130 Hercules at Kahrizak

September 29th, 1981 43 years ago

An Iranian Air Force Lockheed C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft crashed into a firing range near Kahrizak, Iran, resulting in the deaths of 80 individuals onboard. The incident occurred amidst the turbulent period of the Iran-Iraq War, where military operations and air support were critical. The aircraft was reportedly on a routine mission when it struck the firing range, leading to significant casualties. Recovery efforts and investigations into the cause of the crash commenced immediately following the incident.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Maze Prison Hunger Strike Concludes After Deaths

October 3rd, 1981 43 years ago

The hunger strike at Maze Prison, aimed at gaining political prisoner status for Irish republicans, ended after seven months and the deaths of ten prisoners. The strike began in March, with Bobby Sands as a prominent figure, garnering international attention. The protesters sought recognition of their rights and improved conditions, but the government's refusal to negotiate led to a tragic climax. Ultimately, the strike concluded without any significant concessions from the British government, highlighting the deep-rooted tensions in Northern Ireland.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat

October 6th, 1981 43 years ago

Anwar Sadat, President of Egypt, was assassinated during a military parade in Cairo when Islamic extremists affiliated with the Egyptian Islamic Jihad attacked. The assailants were motivated by Sadat’s peace treaty with Israel and his repression of Islamist groups within the country. His assassination marked a significant turning point in Egypt’s political landscape and the broader Middle East region.

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Accidents & Tragedies

NLM CityHopper Flight 431 crash in Moerdijk

October 6th, 1981 43 years ago

NLM CityHopper Flight 431, a commuter flight, took off from Rotterdam The Hague Airport en route to Brussels but tragically crashed in Moerdijk shortly after departure. All 17 people on board, including passengers and crew members, lost their lives in the incident. The cause of the crash was later attributed to a malfunction in the aircraft's control systems. The event raised significant concerns regarding aviation safety protocols and led to reviews of flight operations in the Netherlands.

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Politics & Government

Mitterrand Ends Capital Punishment in France

October 9th, 1981 43 years ago

François Mitterrand, the newly elected President of France, signed a bill abolishing capital punishment, marking a significant shift in French justice policy. The decision was part of his broader agenda to reform various aspects of French governance. The National Assembly passed the bill amid intense debate over human rights and the morality of the death penalty, reflecting changing societal attitudes towards capital punishment. This landmark legislation aligned France with a growing number of countries moving to eliminate the death penalty.

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Politics & Government

Hosni Mubarak Elected as President of Egypt

October 14th, 1981 43 years ago

Following the assassination of Anwar Sadat, Hosni Mubarak was elected the President of Egypt. The election took place a week after Sadat's death on October 6, 1981, marking a significant transition in Egyptian leadership. Mubarak, who had served as Vice President under Sadat, was tasked with stabilizing the nation and continuing its policies amidst regional tensions and internal strife. His ascent to power was seen as a move to maintain continuity during a critical period in Egypt's political landscape.

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Crime & Law

Robbery Leads to Police and Guard Fatalities

October 20th, 1981 43 years ago

In Nanuet, New York, members of the Black Liberation Army and Weather Underground executed a daring armed robbery that resulted in the deaths of two police officers and a Brink's armored car guard. The assailants ambushed the armored vehicle, leading to a violent confrontation that showcased the growing tensions of the time. This event highlighted the aggressive tactics employed by radical groups in pursuit of their agendas amid the socio-political climate of the early 1980s in America.

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