What Happened This Year 1990

Historical Events from This Year 1990

Politics & Government

Assassination of Rabbi Meir Kahane in New York

November 5th, 1990 34 years ago

Rabbi Meir Kahane was shot dead in a hotel in New York City shortly after delivering a speech. The shooter, later identified as a member of an Islamic militant organization, acted in what was described as a premeditated attack. Kahane, known for his controversial views and founding of the far-right Kach political party, had been a polarizing figure in American and Israeli politics. His death sparked debates around his ideologies and the nature of political violence.

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Politics & Government

Mary Robinson elected as Ireland's first woman president

November 7th, 1990 34 years ago

Mary Robinson made history by becoming the first woman to be elected President of the Republic of Ireland. She ran as a candidate from the Labour Party and was known for her strong advocacy of human rights and social justice. Robinson's election marked a significant shift in Ireland's political landscape, symbolizing progress toward gender equality in leadership roles. The election took place in a country known for its traditionally male-dominated politics, and her victory was celebrated by many supporters of women's rights and progressive change in Irish society.

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Politics & Government

Installation of Emperor Akihito of Japan

November 12th, 1990 34 years ago

Crown Prince Akihito was formally installed as Emperor Akihito of Japan during a traditional ceremony in Tokyo. The Chrysanthemum Throne, passed down for generations, welcomed a new reigning monarch as Akihito succeeded his father, Emperor Hirohito. The imperial ceremony included ancient rituals signifying the continuity of the Japanese Imperial lineage, drawing attention from across the nation and around the world, showcasing Japan's rich cultural heritage. The event marked the start of a new imperial era known as the Heisei period.

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Technology & Innovation

Tim Berners-Lee Proposes World Wide Web

November 12th, 1990 34 years ago

Tim Berners-Lee, a British computer scientist, published a formal proposal for the World Wide Web, introducing the concept of hypertext and a system to link documents. This proposal outlined a method for sharing information and facilitated the creation of a global connected network. The document did not only serve as a proposal but also laid the groundwork for the operating principles of the web, emphasizing functionalities that would define its future.

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Crime & Law

David Gray's Mass Shooting in Aramoana

November 13th, 1990 34 years ago

David Gray committed a shooting spree in Aramoana, New Zealand, resulting in the deaths of 13 individuals, including several families. The incident unfolded over a single day, with Gray using a semi-automatic weapon to target residents. Authorities launched a manhunt, and Gray was ultimately killed by police the following day, marking a pivotal moment in New Zealand's crime history and leading to calls for gun control reform in the country.

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Politics & Government

Germany and Poland Confirm Border Treaty

November 14th, 1990 34 years ago

The Federal Republic of Germany and Poland signed a significant treaty confirming the Oder–Neisse line as the official border between their countries. This agreement marked a crucial step in post-Cold War European diplomacy, as it established mutual recognition of territorial integrity and frontier stability. The treaty was a product of discussions between German Chancellor Helmut Kohl and Polish Prime Minister Tadeusz Mazowiecki, aiming to ensure peace and cooperation in the region after the fall of communism in Eastern Europe.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Alitalia Flight 404 Crashes Near Zurich Airport

November 14th, 1990 34 years ago

Alitalia Flight 404, en route to Zurich Airport, crashed into Stadlerberg Mountain near Weiach, claiming 46 lives. The aircraft was in its final approach when it encountered difficulties that led to the tragic accident. The crash occurred in Switzerland, highlighting issues related to flight safety and navigation challenges in mountainous regions. This incident raised concerns over pilot decision-making and airline operational standards.

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Space Exploration

Classified Space Mission with Atlantis

November 15th, 1990 34 years ago

Space Shuttle Atlantis was launched on STS-38, which was a classified mission carried out for the Department of Defense. The flight took place from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida and lasted approximately five days. This mission focused on deploying a satellite as part of the U.S. military's ongoing efforts to enhance its reconnaissance capabilities. Atlantis successfully completed this mission and returned safely to Earth on November 20, 1990.

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Politics & Government

End of the People's Republic of Bulgaria

November 15th, 1990 34 years ago

The Communist People's Republic of Bulgaria was officially disestablished, leading to the formation of a new republican government. This transition marked a significant shift from a one-party state to a democratic political system, initiated by widespread protests against the communist regime. The atmosphere in Sofia was charged with hope as new leaders emerged, promising reforms and a brighter future for Bulgarian citizens. This pivotal moment in Bulgarian history signaled the end of an era and the beginning of new governance.

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