What Happened This Year 1987
Historical Events from This Year 1987
Verna Williamson Becomes First Female Governor
Verna Williamson was elected as the first female governor of the Isleta Pueblo tribe, marking a significant milestone in tribal governance. Her election was celebrated by the community and served as a symbol of women’s leadership in Native American politics. This event represents a shift toward inclusivity and representation in tribal leadership roles.
Continue ReadingVarig Flight 797 Crashes in Ivory Coast
Varig Flight 797, a Boeing 747, crashed near Akouré in the Ivory Coast while on approach to Abidjan. The aircraft was carrying 50 passengers and crew members. All aboard were killed when the plane went down just a few miles from the airport after reporting difficulties. The cause of the crash was attributed to technical failures experienced during the flight.
Continue ReadingDeadly Maryland Amtrak Train Collision
An Amtrak train traveling from Washington, D.C., to Boston collided with Conrail engines in Chase, Maryland, resulting in the deaths of 16 individuals. The accident occurred when the Amtrak train struck freight engines that were parked on the tracks. This catastrophic incident raised questions about rail safety regulations and operational protocols.
Continue ReadingPhilippine Forces Clash with Demonstrators
At Malacañang Palace in Manila, Philippine security forces opened fire on a large crowd of demonstrators estimated between 10,000 to 15,000. The protest was largely driven by demands for political reform and social justice. The violent response resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals. This incident highlighted increasing tensions in the country following years of dictatorship and social unrest, as citizens gathered to voice their grievances against the government.
Continue ReadingMorgan Proposes Genocide Against Isaaq People
Mohammed Said Hersi Morgan sent a letter to Somali President Siad Barre, which outlined a proposal for the extermination of the Isaaq people. This letter was part of Morgan's role as a key military figure in Barre's regime, as tensions escalated between various clans in Somalia. The letter's content aimed to officially sanction violence against the Isaaq, reflecting the brutal climate of civil conflict in Somalia during this period. Morgan's actions contributed to the broader pattern of violence that would shape the nation’s political landscape.
Continue ReadingLarge Civil Rights Demonstration in Forsyth County
Approximately 20,000 protesters gathered in Forsyth County, Georgia, to participate in a civil rights demonstration. Activists marched to advocate for racial equality following historical racial tensions in the county. The protest was organized in response to a racially motivated incident the previous year, as community members aimed to address and challenge ongoing discrimination and harassment against Black individuals. The demonstration drew participants from across the country, highlighting the continued struggle for civil rights in America.
Continue ReadingPhilippines Adopts New Constitution Post-Revolution
The Philippines enacted a new constitution, marking a significant transition toward democracy following the 1986 People Power Revolution. The constitution aimed to strengthen civil liberties and establish a framework for governance that represented the will of the people. It was the product of years of struggle against authoritarian rule under Ferdinand Marcos. The drafting process featured input from various sectors of society, reflecting a collective vision for a democratic future. The new constitution was officially ratified, setting the stage for a new era in Philippine politics.
Continue ReadingMary Gaudron Appointed to High Court of Australia
Mary Gaudron became the first female judge on the High Court of Australia, marking a significant step towards gender equality in the Australian judiciary. Her appointment was made by Prime Minister Bob Hawke, emphasizing the government’s commitment to improve representation of women in high judicial roles. Gaudron had a remarkable legal career, having previously served as a barrister and then as the first female president of the New South Wales Bar Association, paving the way for future generations of women in law.
Continue ReadingSupernova 1987A Observed in Magnitude
Supernova 1987A, a remarkable astronomical phenomenon, was discovered in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a nearby dwarf galaxy. It was initially spotted by Ian Shelton and Mike W. Guidry on February 23, 1987, when they were observing the supernova using the Las Campanas Observatory in Chile. This event was notable for being one of the closest observed supernovae to Earth in over 400 years, at a distance of approximately 168,000 light years. Supernova 1987A provided valuable insights into stellar evolution and the processes involved in a star's explosive death.
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