What Happened This Year 1991

Historical Events from This Year 1991

Politics & Government

Soviet Union Dissolved by Supreme Soviet

December 26th, 1991 33 years ago

The Supreme Soviet of the Soviet Union convened and voted to dissolve the Union following a tumultuous period that included the failed coup in August of the same year. This decision marked the formal end of the Soviet state, which had existed since 1922, resulting in the independence of its republics. On this day, the dissolution was officially announced, and the various republics began to establish their sovereignty. The resolution was both a culmination of internal reforms and external pressures, signaling the end of an era characterized by Cold War tensions.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Scandinavian Airlines Flight 751 Crash Details

December 27th, 1991 33 years ago

Scandinavian Airlines System Flight 751, a scheduled flight from Stockholm to Warsaw, crashed during its approach to Stockholm-Arlanda Airport after encountering difficulties related to engine failure and icing. Of the 129 occupants on board, 92 were injured, while the aircraft's significant damage led to an extensive investigation. The incident highlighted safety protocols and technology following a crash that could have been far worse.

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Politics & Government

End of Operations for Soviet Institutions

December 31st, 1991 33 years ago

On December 31, 1991, all official Soviet Union institutions ceased operations, marking a significant point in the dissolution of the Soviet Union. This moment came just five days after the formal dissolution of the Soviet state, which was declared on December 26, 1991, following the end of the constitutional order that had held sway since the 1922 formation of the USSR. The closure of these institutions symbolized the complete disintegration of the central authority that had governed various republics for decades, significantly changing the political landscape of Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

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