What Happened This Year 1990

Historical Events from This Year 1990

Space Exploration

Space Shuttle Atlantis Launches on STS-36

February 28th, 1990 35 years ago

Space Shuttle Atlantis launched on STS-36 from Kennedy Space Center. The mission, primarily focused on deploying a classified payload for the United States Department of Defense, took off at 10:22 a.m. EST. This launch marked the tenth flight of the Atlantis orbiter. It successfully completed its mission and landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on March 4, 1990, after a six-day journey.

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Crime & Law

Raids on Steve Jackson Games Sparks Debate

March 1st, 1990 35 years ago

In March 1990, agents from the United States Secret Service raided the offices of Steve Jackson Games in Austin, Texas, confiscating computer equipment and documents. The raid was part of an investigation into an alleged conspiracy involving the sale of software designed for the unauthorized hacking of phone systems. This action raised significant concerns about civil liberties in the digital age and the boundaries of law enforcement powers in dealing with burgeoning technology, leading to a public outcry and discussions about digital rights and freedoms.

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Politics & Government

Nelson Mandela Becomes ANC Deputy President

March 2nd, 1990 35 years ago

Nelson Mandela was elected as the deputy president of the African National Congress (ANC) during a key conference that marked a pivotal moment in South Africa's political landscape. Held in Durban, this election took place shortly after Mandela's release from prison. His leadership was crucial in guiding the ANC during a transformative period as the nation moved towards ending decades of apartheid. Mandela's election symbolized a renewed hope and a strategic step towards a democratic South Africa.

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Sports & Recreation

Hank Gathers collapses during conference semifinals

March 4th, 1990 35 years ago

During the semifinals of the West Coast Conference tournament, basketball player Hank Gathers collapsed on the court, shortly after scoring. Gathers, a standout at Loyola Marymount University, was known for his explosive playing style and was leading the nation in scoring at the time. Medical personnel rushed to his aid, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital. His unexpected collapse shocked fans and players alike, raising concerns about player health and safety in sports.

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Politics & Government

Bloodless Coup in Ciskei Removes Sebe

March 4th, 1990 35 years ago

Lennox Sebe, the long-standing President of Ciskei, was ousted by a military coup led by Brigadier Oupa Gqozo. The coup, notable for its lack of violence, marked a significant shift in the political landscape of the Ciskei Bantustan. Major power struggles within the region had created ripe conditions for a military takeover, reflecting broader tensions in South Africa during this period of upheaval. The coup was executed swiftly and effectively, resulting in Sebe's removal and Gqozo's ascension to power, thus ending Sebe's contentious rule.

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Politics & Government

Prosper Avril Ousted from Power in Haiti

March 10th, 1990 35 years ago

Prosper Avril was ousted from power in Haiti after a coup d'état that he staged himself in September 1988. Over the ensuing months, his increasingly authoritarian regime faced widespread opposition, culminating in a series of protests and calls for his resignation. The Haitian populace, weary of Avril's tactics, rallied around the opposition. Ultimately, this culminated in Avril's departure from power as protests grew larger and a democratic transition began to emerge, leading to the first free elections in the nation.

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Politics & Government

Patricio Aylwin Becomes Chile's First Elected President

March 11th, 1990 35 years ago

Patricio Aylwin was sworn in as the first democratically elected President of Chile since 1970, marking a pivotal transition from military dictatorship to democracy. This event took place in the capital city of Santiago during a ceremony that was attended by government officials and international dignitaries. Aylwin was elected following a national referendum that rejected the dictatorship of General Augusto Pinochet, who ruled Chile for almost 17 years. His presidency was a symbol of hope for many Chileans who longed for a return to democratic governance.

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Politics & Government

Lithuania's Bold Step Towards Independence

March 11th, 1990 35 years ago

On March 11, 1990, Lithuania declared its independence from the Soviet Union, becoming the first Soviet republic to do so. The declaration was passed by the Supreme Council of Lithuania, led by the Sąjūdis movement, which sought to restore the country's sovereignty and democratic governance after decades of Soviet control. The move was supported by a significant portion of the population and ushered in a period of political upheaval throughout the Soviet Union as other republics would follow Lithuania's lead in seeking independence.

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Politics & Government

Mikhail Gorbachev Becomes First Soviet President

March 15th, 1990 35 years ago

Mikhail Gorbachev was elected as the first President of the Soviet Union by the Congress of People's Deputies. This historic election marked a significant transition, demonstrating Gorbachev’s efforts in reforming the political landscape of the USSR. Gorbachev aimed to implement more democratic practices and to revitalize the economy through policies like Glasnost and Perestroika. His election was seen as a direct response to the growing need for change following years of stagnation and discontent in the Soviet Union.

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