What Happened This Year 1985
Historical Events from This Year 1985
Global Live Aid Concert Fundraises for Africa
The Live Aid benefit concert was a dual-venue event featuring performances by many iconic musicians. Held simultaneously at Wembley Stadium in London and John F. Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia, the concert raised funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. The event was organized by musicians Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, motivated by the 1984 Ethiopian famine. Live Aid drew an audience of over 1.5 billion viewers across more than 150 nations and showcased legendary acts like Queen, U2, and David Bowie.
Continue ReadingFounding of the EUREKA Network
The EUREKA Network was established to foster European cooperation in technology development. Initiated by former French President François Mitterrand and former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, this initiative aimed to enhance competitiveness in various technological sectors. The founding marked a pivotal moment in European integration and emphasized the importance of collaborative research and innovation across member states, promoting economic growth and technological advancements.
Continue ReadingVal di Stava Dam Collapse in Italy
A catastrophic failure of the Val di Stava dam occurred, leading to the tragic loss of 268 lives in the Val di Stava valley, Italy. The disaster was triggered by the unsound construction of the dam and its associated reservoirs, exacerbated by heavy rainfall that caused structural weaknesses to give way. The torrent of water swept through the valley, destroying everything in its path, including homes and infrastructure. Rescue and recovery efforts were launched immediately, but the damage was extensive, and the community was deeply affected by the loss of life and devastation.
Continue ReadingAruba Legislation for Independence from Netherlands Antilles
The government of Aruba passed key legislation aimed at securing its secession from the Netherlands Antilles, signaling a significant political shift. The new law emerged from a desire for greater autonomy over local governance and resources, reflecting the aspirations of Aruba's population. The move was brought forth amidst growing political discussions of the status of the islands within the larger Antillean federation. As Aruba sought to redefine its political landscape, the decision echoed the island's aspirations for self-determination.
Continue ReadingDelta Air Lines Flight 191 Crashes in Dallas
A Delta Air Lines Lockheed L-1011 TriStar crashed while landing at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport during a thunderstorm. The aircraft lost control due to wind shear and struck a field before colliding with vehicles on a nearby roadway. The crash resulted in the deaths of all 128 passengers and 9 crew members aboard, as well as the deaths of 9 individuals on the ground, totaling 137 fatalities.
Continue ReadingFirst Japanese Astronauts Selected
Takao Doi, Mamoru Mohri, and Chiaki Mukai were selected to become Japan's first astronauts by the National Space Development Agency of Japan. This selection was part of Japan's growing commitment to space exploration and research. The program was launched to increase Japan's capabilities in aeronautics and space technology. Notably, Takao Doi, with his background in engineering and medicine, contributed various skills to Japan's science missions, while Mamoru Mohri and Chiaki Mukai brought scientific expertise and pilot experience. Their selection marked a significant milestone for Japanese presence in space.
Continue ReadingJapan Air Lines Flight 123 Tragedy
Japan Air Lines Flight 123 crashed into the Osutaka Ridge in Gunma Prefecture, killing 520 people. The aircraft, a Boeing 747, experienced catastrophic failure due to an earlier repair issue, leading to a loss of control. This disaster marked the deadliest single-aircraft accident in aviation history, deeply affecting air travel regulations and safety protocols.
Continue ReadingAssam Accord Signed to End Assam Movement
The Assam Accord was signed between representatives of the Government of India and leaders of the Assam Movement. This agreement sought to resolve the socio-political unrest that had persisted in Assam, characterized by demands for indigenous rights and tackling illegal immigration from Bangladesh. Key discussions were held in Delhi, and the signatories included prominent leaders like Prafulla Kumar Mahanta. The accord aimed to restore peace and facilitate development in the northeastern state.
Continue ReadingHormel Workers Strike for Fair Wages
Workers at the Hormel Foods plant in Austin, Minnesota, initiated a significant strike aimed at securing better wages and working conditions. The strike was prompted by disputes over proposed cuts to wages and benefits by Hormel Foods Corporation, which the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union perceived as detrimental to the livelihoods of its members. This labor dispute attracted national attention and highlighted issues about workers' rights during a period of economic uncertainty.
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