What Happened This Year 1990

Historical Events from This Year 1990

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Massive London Protest Against Poll Tax

March 31st, 1990 34 years ago

Approximately 200,000 protesters filled the streets of London to oppose the newly introduced Poll Tax, which was seen as unfair and regressive. The demonstration, organized by various activists and Labour party members, was held in response to widespread discontent regarding the tax's implications on low-income households. Participants voiced their anger over the financial burdens that the Poll Tax imposed, highlighting the socio-economic inequalities exacerbated by the legislation. This large-scale mobilization underscored the growing public dissatisfaction with the government.

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Politics & Government

Adoption of Hong Kong's Current Flag

April 4th, 1990 34 years ago

The current flag of Hong Kong was adopted during the Third Session of the Seventh National People's Congress. This decision was made in the context of preparing Hong Kong for its return to Chinese sovereignty in 1997. The flag features a stylized Bauhinia flower, symbolizing both the territory and its cultural heritage, and was designed to foster a sense of identity among Hong Kong's residents in the lead-up to the transition.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Fire on Scandinavian Star Ferry Claims 159 Lives

April 7th, 1990 34 years ago

A catastrophic fire aboard the Scandinavian Star ferry unfolded during a voyage from Oslo to Frederikshavn, resulting in the deaths of 159 passengers and crew members. The blaze erupted in the early morning hours, primarily fueled by combustible materials. Evacuation efforts faced challenges due to smoke and fire, complicating rescue operations and leading to high fatalities. The tragedy sparked urgent discussions about maritime safety regulations and the need for improved emergency procedures on passenger vessels.

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Politics & Government

John Poindexter Convicted in Iran-Contra Affair

April 7th, 1990 34 years ago

John Poindexter, former National Security Adviser, was convicted for his involvement in the Iran-Contra affair, a political scandal concerning the secret U.S. arms sales to Iran and the funding of Contra rebels in Nicaragua. His conviction illustrated the legal ramifications of actions taken by government officials during controversial foreign policy maneuvers. The case garnered significant media attention due to its implications concerning executive power and accountability in U.S. governance.

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Politics & Government

Signing of Sahtu Dene and Metis Land Claim Agreement

April 9th, 1990 34 years ago

The Sahtu Dene and Metis Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement was signed, encompassing 180,000 square kilometres in the Mackenzie Valley. This agreement represented a significant step in recognizing Indigenous rights and land claims, establishing a framework for governance, resource management, and benefits for the Sahtu Dene and Metis people in the region. The signing event was attended by various leaders and government representatives, marking a commitment to partnership and reconciliation in the western Arctic.

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Accidents & Tragedies

EMB 120 Brasilia and Cessna 172 Mid-Air Collision

April 9th, 1990 34 years ago

An Embraer EMB 120 Brasilia collided mid-air with a Cessna 172 over Gadsden, Alabama, resulting in the death of both occupants in the Cessna. The collision occurred under unclear circumstances as both aircraft were operating in the same airspace. Witnesses reported seeing the two planes colliding before both fell to the ground. The investigation focused on safety protocols and air traffic control communications in the region.

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Military & Warfare

IRA Bombing Kills Three UDR Members

April 9th, 1990 34 years ago

An explosion attributed to the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in County Down, Northern Ireland, resulted in the deaths of three members of the Ulster Defence Regiment (UDR). The bombing, part of the ongoing sectarian conflict, highlighted the tensions in the region during the period of the Troubles. The UDR had been a target for republican groups who opposed the British presence in Northern Ireland. The incident drew significant media attention and raised concerns about the safety of security forces in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Middlesbrough Customs Seize Gun Barrel for Iraq

April 11th, 1990 34 years ago

Customs officers in Middlesbrough seized a suspected barrel of a large gun from a ship bound for Iraq. The inspection on the vessel raised alarms regarding potential military supplies. This interception occurred amidst international tensions in the region, highlighting the critical role customs officials play in enforcing arms embargoes.

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Arts & Culture

Jim Gary's Dinosaurs Exhibition Unveiled

April 12th, 1990 34 years ago

Jim Gary's "Twentieth Century Dinosaurs" exhibition was opened at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. Unique in its approach, this exhibition showcased large-scale dinosaur sculptures crafted from recycled materials. Known for their intricate designs, these sculptures offered viewers a blend of art and paleontology, transforming how dinosaurs could be perceived in contemporary culture. As the only sculptor invited for a solo exhibition at the museum, Gary's work attracted significant attention and became a notable feature of the museum's offerings.

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