What Happened This Year 1981

Historical Events from This Year 1981

Politics & Government

Andreas Papandreou Becomes Greek Prime Minister

October 21st, 1981 43 years ago

Andreas Papandreou, leader of the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK), became the Prime Minister of Greece, marking a significant political shift. His election ended nearly 50 years of conservative dominance in Greek politics, reflecting widespread public desire for change. His party championed social reforms and modernization, appealing to the electorate's aspirations for a more democratic and participatory government.

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Politics & Government

PATCO Decertification by US Federal Authority

October 22nd, 1981 43 years ago

The US Federal Labor Relations Authority voted to decertify the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO) after a strike in the previous August. The strike, which involved thousands of air traffic controllers, aimed for better working conditions and pay but was met with strong resistance from the government. The decision reflected the government's stance against labor unions taking extensive action.

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Military & Warfare

Soviet Submarine S-363 Grounded in Sweden

October 27th, 1981 43 years ago

While conducting a mission, the Soviet submarine S-363 ran aground on the east coast of Sweden. The incident created significant tensions between the Soviet Union and Sweden, leading to military and diplomatic responses from both parties. It highlighted the heightened military activities in the Baltic Sea during the Cold War and raised concerns about national security and surveillance.

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Politics & Government

Antigua and Barbuda Achieves Independence

November 1st, 1981 43 years ago

On November 1, 1981, Antigua and Barbuda gained independence from the United Kingdom after centuries of colonial rule. The independence movement was fueled by the desire for self-governance and recognition of the islands' cultural identity. The transition to independence was celebrated with various festivities across the nation, including a ceremonial event attended by notable leaders and citizens. The first Prime Minister, George Walter, played a pivotal role in leading the country towards this significant milestone, along with key advocates for independence.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Aeroméxico Flight 110 crashes near Zihuatanejo

November 8th, 1981 43 years ago

Aeroméxico Flight 110, a Douglas DC-9, crashed near Zihuatanejo, Mexico, killing all 18 people onboard. The flight was en route from Mexico City to Zihuatanejo, but shortly after takeoff, it experienced technical difficulties. The airliner lost altitude rapidly and went down in a mountainous region near the coast. Investigations revealed a combination of factors contributing to the mishap.

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Politics & Government

Antigua and Barbuda Joins the UN

November 11th, 1981 43 years ago

Antigua and Barbuda officially became a member of the United Nations, enhancing its global presence and diplomatic relations. This membership allowed the nation to engage in discussions on international issues and benefit from collective actions, as well as provide a platform to advocate for its interests. The island nation, located in the Caribbean, sought to strengthen its ties with other nations and participate in the global dialogue for development and cooperation.

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Space Exploration

Columbia's Second Launch: STS-2 Mission

November 12th, 1981 43 years ago

Mission STS-2, utilizing the Space Shuttle Columbia, signifies the first occasion where a crewed spacecraft had been launched into space twice. This mission followed the inaugural flight of Columbia during STS-1. Encompassing various scientific experiments and technological demonstrations, the shuttle effectively showcased the capabilities of reusable spacecraft. The crew, consisting of Commander Joseph P. Allen and Pilot Frederick D. Gregory, contributed to extensive data collection during the eight-day mission, significantly enhancing NASA's understanding of reusable space technology.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Aeroflot Flight 3603 Crashes at Norilsk Airport

November 16th, 1981 43 years ago

Aeroflot Flight 3603, a Tupolev Tu-154, encountered issues during landing at Norilsk Airport in Russia, resulting in a crash that claimed 99 lives. The flight was en route from Krasnoyarsk with 97 passengers and 8 crew members on board. Despite landing conditions being relatively standard, the aircraft experienced a significant loss of altitude and control prior to touchdown, leading to a tragic outcome.

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Politics & Government

CIA Authorized to Support Nicaraguan Contras

November 23rd, 1981 43 years ago

Ronald Reagan signed the National Security Decision Directive 17, authorizing the CIA to recruit and support Contra rebels in Nicaragua. This directive was a significant step in U.S. involvement in Nicaragua, aimed at countering the Sandinista government established in 1979. The Contras were a group of rebel fighters opposing the Sandinista regime, which the U.S. viewed as aligned with communism. The decision reflected Reagan's broader agenda to confront perceived communist threats in Central America.

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