What Happened This Year 1991
Historical Events from This Year 1991
Croatians vote for independence in referendum
A significant referendum took place in Croatia where the population voted overwhelmingly in favor of independence from Yugoslavia. This vote reflected the growing desire for self-determination among the Croatian people amid the ethnic and political tensions that marked the disintegration of Yugoslavia. The referendum came after a series of political changes and rising nationalist sentiments in Croatia, setting the stage for a new Croatian state.
Continue ReadingRajiv Gandhi Assassinated by Suicide Bomber
Former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a female suicide bomber while campaigning near Madras. The attacker, a member of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), detonated an explosive device, killing Gandhi and several others. The assassination was politically motivated, targeting Gandhi for his stance on Tamil rights and his previous support of the Indian Peacekeeping Force in Sri Lanka.
Continue ReadingMengistu Haile Mariam Flees Ethiopia
Mengistu Haile Mariam, the president of the People's Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, fled Ethiopia on May 21, 1991. His escape marked a significant shift in the Ethiopian Civil War as the Tigray People's Liberation Front and its allies captured the capital, Addis Ababa, effectively ending years of conflict. The fall of Mengistu's regime came after a protracted civil war characterized by severe political repression, economic hardship, and military struggles. His departure not only symbolized the collapse of a Marxist-Leninist government but also the beginning of a new era for Ethiopia.
Continue ReadingAeroflot Flight 8556 crash at Pulkovo Airport
Aeroflot Flight 8556, a Tupolev Tu-154, crashed while landing at Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg, Russia. The accident occurred during heavy rain and poor visibility conditions. Of the 63 people onboard, 13 were killed, including crew and passengers. Investigations pointed to pilot error and bad weather as contributing factors.
Continue ReadingOperation Solomon Evacuates Ethiopian Jews
Operation Solomon was a large-scale airlift that took place to evacuate Jews from Ethiopia to Israel. It occurred over 36 hours, beginning on May 24, 1991, and involved the use of 34 aircraft, which successfully transported approximately 14,000 Ethiopian Jews to Israel. The operation was launched in response to the deteriorating situation in Ethiopia, where civil war and famine threatened the lives of the Jewish community known as Beta Israel. This coordinated effort involved both the Israeli government and Jewish organizations worldwide.
Continue ReadingLauda Air Flight 004 Mid-Air Disaster
Lauda Air Flight 004, a Boeing 767, disintegrated mid-air due to a malfunction, crashing into Phu Toei National Park in Thailand. The incident took place while the aircraft was on a flight from Bangkok to Vienna. All 223 passengers and crew onboard perished in the disaster. Investigations later revealed that the crash was caused by an uncommanded thrust reversal of the engines.
Continue ReadingZviad Gamsakhurdia elected President of Georgia
Zviad Gamsakhurdia was elected the first President of the Republic of Georgia in the post-Soviet era, marking a significant political transition for the country. His election came after a period of national movements advocating for independence from the Soviet Union. Gamsakhurdia's leadership promised to emphasize nationalism and democratic governance, resonating with a populace eager for change.
Continue ReadingFall of Addis Ababa and Derg Regime's End
Addis Ababa was captured by the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), signaling the collapse of the Derg regime and bringing an end to the prolonged Ethiopian Civil War. The EPRDF's victory was marked by widespread jubilation among supporters, as it concluded years of brutal conflict and dictatorial rule. The city became the focal point of the conflict as various factions vied for control, impacting national stability and governance.
Continue ReadingBicesse Accords Establish Democratic Transition
The Bicesse Accords were signed by the Angolan government and UNITA in Portugal, aiming to end decades of civil war in Angola. This agreement included provisions for a ceasefire, the establishment of a multi-party system, and preparations for democratic elections, all under the supervision of the United Nations. The accords represented a significant turn towards peace and political reform after prolonged conflict, garnering support from various international actors.
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