What Happened This Year 1983
Historical Events from This Year 1983
Beginning of the Black July Anti-Tamil Riots
The Black July riots erupted in Sri Lanka as a violent response to the killing of 13 Sri Lankan soldiers in an ambush by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in Jaffna. Leading to widespread anti-Tamil violence across the island, the riots saw Sinhala mobs attack Tamil homes and businesses, resulting in deaths, injuries, and the displacement of thousands of Tamils. The death toll estimates range from 400 to 3,000 individuals, marking a significant escalation in ethnic tensions as the civil conflict intensified.
Continue ReadingMassacre of Tamil Political Prisoners
Eighteen Tamil political prisoners were killed by Sinhalese prisoners at the Welikada high-security prison in Colombo. This massacre was part of a violent crackdown during a period of ethnic tension in Sri Lanka, which was exacerbated by the ongoing civil conflict. The attack occurred just two days after an earlier massacre, highlighting the deep-seated animosity and the climate of fear within the prison system. The event underscored the precarious situation for Tamils in the country amid escalating violence.
Continue ReadingThomas Sankara Ousts Jean-Baptiste Ouédraogo
Captain Thomas Sankara led a coup d'état in Upper Volta, ousting President Jean-Baptiste Ouédraogo. The coup was motivated by widespread dissatisfaction with Ouédraogo's government, including allegations of corruption and mismanagement. Sankara, a popular military leader, rose to power quickly, appealing to the hopes and needs of the people for economic and social reforms. The coup marked a significant turning point in the country’s political landscape, with Sankara promising a new era of governance.
Continue ReadingHurricane Alicia Strikes Texas Coast
Hurricane Alicia made landfall on the Texas coast, causing extensive damage and resulting in the loss of 21 lives. It was a Category 3 hurricane that formed in the Gulf of Mexico and wreaked havoc primarily in the Houston metropolitan area. The storm brought winds exceeding 115 miles per hour, leading to widespread destruction of homes and infrastructure. In total, damages were estimated at over $1 billion, making Alicia one of the costliest hurricanes at the time.
Continue ReadingAssassination of Benigno Aquino Jr.
Benigno Aquino Jr., a prominent Philippine opposition leader, was assassinated at the Manila International Airport, now named Ninoy Aquino International Airport in his honor. His return from exile was met with tragic violence, leading to widespread political unrest and demands for accountability in the Philippines. The assassination ignited a significant movement against the then-ruling regime of Ferdinand Marcos, ultimately altering the course of Philippine history.
Continue ReadingAeroflot Flight 5463 Crash Near Almaty Airport
Aeroflot Flight 5463, a Soviet passenger aircraft, tragically crashed into Dolan Mountain while approaching Almaty International Airport. The incident occurred due to navigational errors, resulting in the loss of all 90 passengers and crew members on board. Typically, this route is favored for its scenic views; however, weather conditions were poor at the time, contributing to the flight's difficulties in its final approach. The disaster marked one of the significant aviation accidents in Kazakhstan's history.
Continue ReadingChallenger's Historic Night Launch with Bluford
The Space Shuttle Challenger launched on a historic night mission, marking the first time a shuttle took off after sunset. This monumental flight saw Guion Bluford, an accomplished astronaut and engineer, become the first African-American in space. The launch took place from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida and was a significant milestone for NASA and for representation in the space program, showcasing the increasing diversity within its ranks.
Continue ReadingSoviet Fighter Downs Korean Air Flight 007
Korean Air Lines Flight 007, a commercial airliner, was shot down by a Soviet jet fighter after straying into Soviet airspace. The incident occurred while the aircraft was traveling from New York City to Seoul. All 269 passengers and crew members on board perished, including Congressman Lawrence McDonald, leading to heightened tensions during the Cold War.
Continue ReadingSoviet Admission on Korean Air Lines Shootdown
The Soviet Union acknowledged that it shot down Korean Air Lines Flight 007, claiming its operatives were unaware that the aircraft was civilian. The Boeing 747 had strayed off course into Soviet airspace, leading to a confrontation that resulted in all onboard losing their lives. This incident heightened tensions during the Cold War and drew international condemnation.
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