What Happened This Year 1981

Historical Events from This Year 1981

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Bobby Sands Commences Hunger Strike

March 1st, 1981 44 years ago

Bobby Sands, a member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army, began a hunger strike in HM Prison Maze on March 1, 1981. This hunger strike was part of a protest against the British government's denial of political status to IRA prisoners. Sands and other prisoners sought to regain rights they believed were stripped away following a change in legislation. The strike was intended to draw international attention to their plight and the broader issue of Northern Ireland's political situation.

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Science & Technology

Launch of the ZX81 Home Computer

March 5th, 1981 44 years ago

Sinclair Research introduced the ZX81, a revolutionary home computer known for its affordability and compact design, on March 5, 1981. With a price point of under £100, it made computing accessible to a wider audience. The ZX81 featured a distinctive minimalist design and was equipped with a custom version of BASIC programming language, allowing users to create their own programs. Its successful launch paved the way for over 1.5 million units sold globally, marking a significant milestone in the personal computing revolution.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Student Protests for Political Rights in Kosovo

March 11th, 1981 44 years ago

Hundreds of students staged protests at the University of Pristina in Kosovo, then part of Yugoslavia, demanding increased political rights for their province. This movement, driven by frustrations over ethnic and regional inequalities, gained traction as students rallied for autonomy and social justice. The protests resonated throughout Kosovo and inspired similar demonstrations across the country, signaling a significant shift in public sentiment against the existing political framework.

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Politics & Government

Formation of the Social Democratic Party in the UK

March 26th, 1981 43 years ago

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) was founded in March 1981, serving as a centrist political alternative in the United Kingdom. Emerging from a faction of the Labour Party, led by key figures such as David Owen, the SDP aimed to address the concerns of moderate voters who felt disillusioned with the traditional parties. The founding conference took place in Liberal Party headquarters in London. The SDP's formation was a response to the increasing polarization of British politics during a time of economic challenges and social unrest, setting out to offer policies of social justice while promoting economic liberalism.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Mass Warning Strike Organized by Solidarity

March 27th, 1981 43 years ago

Poland witnessed a significant warning strike led by the Solidarity movement, during which approximately 12 million workers participated by walking off their jobs for four hours. This action was a demonstration against the government's economic policies and aimed to showcase the unity and strength of the labor movement in Poland. Workers from various sectors joined in solidarity, emphasizing the urgent need for reforms and better working conditions. The strike occurred across the country, highlighting the widespread support for the Solidarity cause.

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Politics & Government

Ronald Reagan Assassination Attempt

March 30th, 1981 43 years ago

U.S. President Ronald Reagan was shot in the chest outside the Washington Hilton Hotel by John Hinckley Jr., injuring three others in the process. Hinckley attempted the assassination to impress actress Jodie Foster, prompting a national conversation about security for public figures. Reagan was quickly rushed to the hospital, where he underwent surgery for his wounds.

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Science & Technology

Launch of the Osborne 1 Portable Computer

April 3rd, 1981 43 years ago

The Osborne 1 was unveiled at the West Coast Computer Faire in San Francisco, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of portable computing. Designed by Adam Osborne, this groundbreaking device featured a unique all-in-one design that included a 5-inch screen, floppy disk drives, and a full-size keyboard. It was the first commercially successful portable computer, weighing approximately 24.5 pounds. The launch attracted significant attention from attendees and set the stage for future innovations in portable technology.

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Military & Warfare

Iran Air Force Destroys Iraqi Aircraft in H-3 Raid

April 4th, 1981 43 years ago

The Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force executed a successful airstrike on H-3 Airbase in Iraq, resulting in the destruction of about 50 Iraqi aircraft. This operation was part of the larger military engagements during the Iran–Iraq War, which was characterized by high-stakes aerial combat and strategic bombardments. The action showcased Iran's capability to project air power into Iraqi territory, significantly impacting Iraqi air operations at that time.

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Accidents & Tragedies

USS George Washington Collides with Japanese Cargo Ship

April 9th, 1981 43 years ago

The U.S. Navy nuclear submarine USS George Washington collided with the Japanese cargo ship Nissho Maru. The incident occurred in the Pacific Ocean, leading to the sinking of the Nissho Maru and the tragic loss of two Japanese sailors. The submarine was engaged in routine operations when the collision happened, raising concerns about maritime safety and submarine operations in busy shipping lanes.

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