What Happened This Year 1984

Historical Events from This Year 1984

Crime & Law

Milperra Massacre: Bandidos vs. Comancheros Clash

September 2nd, 1984 40 years ago

A violent confrontation between rival motorcycle gangs Bandidos and Comancheros took place in Sydney, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals and injuries to twelve others. The skirmish erupted during a planned meet at a local venue, fueled by long-standing rivalries. This bloody event marked a significant escalation in the gang wars within Australia, drawing public and media attention to the dangers of organized crime in the region.

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Space Exploration

Discovery Completes Its First Successful Mission

September 5th, 1984 40 years ago

The Space Shuttle Discovery touched down at Edwards Air Force Base in California after its first flight, marking the shuttle's successful inaugural mission. This mission, designated STS-41-D, launched on August 30 and lasted for over five days. The flight deployed three satellites and conducted numerous experiments, showcasing the capabilities of the shuttle program. The landing concluded with a smooth touchdown, demonstrating the shuttle's design and engineering.

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Politics & Government

Western Australia Abolishes Capital Punishment

September 5th, 1984 40 years ago

Western Australia became the final Australian state to abolish capital punishment. The decision followed years of debate and public sentiment shifting against the death penalty. The legislation was introduced by the state government and passed in Parliament, reflecting changing attitudes towards justice and human rights. With the new law, Western Australia joined the other states and territories that had already removed the death penalty from their legal systems.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Explosion on Maltese Patrol Boat Injures Many

September 7th, 1984 40 years ago

An explosion occurred on a Maltese patrol boat while it was disposing of illegal fireworks at sea off the coast of Gozo. This tragic incident led to the deaths of seven soldiers and policemen involved in the operation. The patrol boat was tasked with maintaining safety by neutralizing hazardous fireworks, but the operation went awry, resulting in a devastating explosion that claimed lives and injured others. The exact cause of the explosion was investigated, raising concerns about safety protocols in handling hazardous materials.

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Sports & Recreation

Dwight Gooden Sets Rookie Strikeout Record

September 12th, 1984 40 years ago

Dwight Gooden achieved an impressive milestone by striking out his 246th batter on September 12, 1984, breaking the longstanding rookie record previously held by Herb Score. Gooden, pitching for the New York Mets, finished the season with an astounding 276 strikeouts over 218 innings. This remarkable performance highlighted Gooden’s exceptional talent and skill, solidifying his position as one of the top pitchers in Major League Baseball.

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Exploration & Discovery

Joe Kittinger Crosses the Atlantic by Balloon

September 14th, 1984 40 years ago

Joe Kittinger accomplished a remarkable feat by becoming the first person to successfully fly a gas balloon alone across the Atlantic Ocean. Launching from Caribou, Maine, Kittinger ascended to altitudes above 20,000 feet in his balloon, the Double Eagle II. His journey was part of a broader interest in aviation and exploration, drawing on the techniques of early aviators. He landed in Italy, completing the journey after over 3,500 miles and 72 hours aloft.

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Exploration & Discovery

Joe Kittinger's Solo Balloon Crossing of Atlantic

September 18th, 1984 40 years ago

Joe Kittinger achieved a remarkable feat by completing the first solo balloon crossing of the Atlantic Ocean. Taking off from Caribou, Maine, Kittinger traveled approximately 3,500 miles in a hot air balloon named the 'Billie-Bob' while navigating varied weather conditions and altitudes. The journey took 31 hours, concluding in a successful landing in Italy, demonstrating both his courage and the advancements in ballooning technology.

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Military & Warfare

Car Bomb Targets U.S. Embassy in Beirut

September 20th, 1984 40 years ago

A car bomb exploded outside the U.S. embassy in Beirut, killing twenty-two people including both Americans and Lebanese. The bombing marked a pivotal moment in the escalating violence within Lebanon during the civil war and highlighted the dangers faced by foreign diplomats in the region. The attack was part of a broader pattern of bombings aimed at foreign interests, causing concern among global powers regarding their presence in Lebanon.

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Politics & Government

Brunei Becomes a United Nations Member

September 21st, 1984 40 years ago

Brunei officially joined the United Nations, expanding its role in global affairs. The country, rich in oil and natural gas, sought to enhance international cooperation. The event symbolized Brunei's commitment to participating in global governance and diplomacy, marking a significant milestone since its independence in 1984. This accession allowed Brunei to engage in multilateral discussions and frameworks, addressing issues like development, peace, and security.

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