What Happened This Year 1991

Historical Events from This Year 1991

Politics & Government

General Sunthorn Kongsompong's Bloodless Coup

February 23rd, 1991 34 years ago

In Thailand, General Sunthorn Kongsompong led a bloodless military coup that resulted in the deposition of Prime Minister Chatichai Choonhavan. This takeover was largely driven by dissatisfaction among the military and elite with the government’s performance and corruption. General Sunthorn aimed to restore stability and order after political unrest and economic challenges faced by the country. The coup was executed without violence and was followed by the establishment of a temporary government.

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Military & Warfare

Ground Troops Enter Iraq During Gulf War

February 24th, 1991 34 years ago

Ground troops from the coalition forces crossed the Saudi Arabian border into Iraq, marking the beginning of the ground phase of the Gulf War. This military action was aimed at liberating Kuwait, which had been invaded by Iraq in August 1990. The coalition consisted of forces from multiple countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and others, coordinated under a unified command structure. The rapid advance of ground troops was a pivotal moment in the conflict, signaling a transition from aerial bombardment to ground combat operations.

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Politics & Government

End of the Warsaw Pact Alliance

February 25th, 1991 34 years ago

A significant meeting in Budapest led to the disbandment of the Warsaw Pact, an alliance of Eastern Bloc countries. Representatives from member states convened to announce the formal dissolution of the military alliance that had been established in response to NATO. The decision reflected the shifting political landscape in Eastern Europe and marked the end of a Cold War-era organization, as the members sought to embrace more democratic governance and greater autonomy. The conclusion of the Warsaw Pact symbolized a major shift in international relations and military alignment.

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Military & Warfare

President Bush Announces Liberation of Kuwait

February 27th, 1991 34 years ago

U.S. President George H. W. Bush declared Kuwait liberated after coalition forces' decisive military victories against Iraqi troops. This announcement marked the end of Operation Desert Storm, a rapid combat operation that began just weeks prior. It signified the restoration of Kuwait's sovereignty following its invasion by Iraq, which had taken place in August. Bush's address was delivered from the White House and highlighted the commitment of the United States and its allies to uphold international law and support for oppressed nations.

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Politics & Government

Uprisings Against Saddam Hussein in Iraq

March 1st, 1991 34 years ago

Following the Gulf War, Iraq saw numerous uprisings against Saddam Hussein's regime. Discontent among the Kurdish and Shia populations ignited protests and armed resistance, particularly in southern and northern Iraq. The uprising led to severe reprisals from the Iraqi military, resulting in significant casualties. An estimated 25,000 individuals, mostly civilians, lost their lives during these confrontations as the government's violent crackdown escalated. The uprisings reflected widespread anger towards the Ba'ath Party's oppressive rule, ultimately impacting regional dynamics and international relations.

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Military & Warfare

Decisive Clash at Rumaila Oil Field

March 2nd, 1991 34 years ago

The Battle at Rumaila oil field marked a critical confrontation during the Gulf War, occurring as coalition forces advanced on Iraqi positions. It showcased the power of the U.S.-led coalition against Iraq's military. The engagement was pivotal in securing control over the oil-rich region, disrupting Iraqi forces' capabilities to retaliate. This battle culminated in a decisive victory for the coalition, largely involving U.S. Armed Forces and allied troops, who employed advanced air and ground tactics to overpower Iraqi defenses.

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Politics & Government

Kuwait Democratic Forum Established

March 2nd, 1991 34 years ago

The Kuwait Democratic Forum was established as a center-left political organization, aimed at promoting democratic reforms in Kuwait. Formed in the aftermath of the Gulf War, the Forum advocated for political participation and human rights, responding to the changing political landscape in the nation. Despite the challenges faced by activists, this organization sought to influence future governance in Kuwait.

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Accidents & Tragedies

United Airlines Flight 585 crashes in Colorado Springs

March 3rd, 1991 34 years ago

United Airlines Flight 585, a DC-9, crashed while attempting to land at Colorado Springs Airport, resulting in the death of all 25 people on board. The aircraft encountered severe wind shear during its final approach, leading to a rapid loss of control. This tragic incident raised critical questions regarding flight safety and air traffic management, emphasizing the dangers of unpredictable weather conditions. The investigation that followed highlighted the importance of improved pilot training and revised safety procedures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Rodney King Beating Captured on Amateur Video

March 3rd, 1991 34 years ago

A bystander recorded a violent encounter between Rodney King and LAPD officers in Los Angeles. The video showed King being beaten by several officers after a high-speed chase, raising immediate concerns about police brutality and racial discrimination. The footage was released to the public, igniting intense media coverage and public outrage over police practices in the city. King survived the incident, but the video would become a pivotal moment in discussions about race relations and law enforcement in America.

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