What Happened This Year 1995

Historical Events from This Year 1995

Space Exploration

Endeavour launches with ASTRO-2 mission

March 2nd, 1995 30 years ago

Space Shuttle Endeavour lifted off from Kennedy Space Center to conduct the ASTRO-2 mission, which aimed to further investigate astronomical phenomena utilizing a unique observatory. The mission, launched on March 2, 1995, carried a multitude of instruments designed to observe cosmic sources in different wavelengths. With a crew of seven astronauts, including notable figures like John W. Young and Storey Musgrave, the shuttle would spend 11 days in orbit gathering valuable data.

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Space Exploration

First American Astronaut on Russian Launch Vehicle

March 14th, 1995 30 years ago

Norman Thagard became the first American astronaut to launch into space aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft. He flew from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan as part of the personal spaceflight arrangements between NASA and the Russian space agency. The flight marked a significant point in U.S.-Russian cooperation in space exploration, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Mississippi Ratifies Thirteenth Amendment

March 16th, 1995 29 years ago

Mississippi formally ratified the Thirteenth Amendment, achieving the formal abolition of slavery in the United States. Despite the Thirteenth Amendment being ratified in 1865, Mississippi was the last state to sign off in 1995. The ratification occurred when state lawmakers took action to correct the oversight, reflecting unique local and national historical contexts surrounding slavery and civil rights.

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Crime & Law

Sarin Gas Attack on Tokyo Subway

March 20th, 1995 29 years ago

Aum Shinrikyo, a Japanese cult, executed a coordinated sarin gas attack in the Tokyo subway system during the morning rush hour. The attack involved the release of sarin gas in multiple trains, leading to chaos and panic amongst commuters. Thirteen people lost their lives, and over 6,200 were injured. The motive behind the attack was rooted in the cult's apocalyptic beliefs and their view of government opposition.

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Space Exploration

Valeri Polyakov's Record Space Mission Ends

March 22nd, 1995 29 years ago

Valeri Polyakov, a Russian cosmonaut, returned to Earth after an unprecedented 438 days in orbit aboard the Mir space station. His mission, which began in 1994, was primarily aimed at studying the long-term effects of extended spaceflight on the human body. Upon landing in Kazakhstan, Polyakov had conducted numerous scientific experiments and contributed significantly to our understanding of space travel. His dedication showcased the resilience of the human spirit and advanced knowledge in aerospace medicine.

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Technology & Innovation

Launch of WikiWikiWeb by Ward Cunningham

March 25th, 1995 29 years ago

Ward Cunningham made the WikiWikiWeb, the first wiki, public, enabling collaborative web editing. This innovation allowed users to easily create and edit web pages collectively, fostering a new way of sharing information online. The project was part of the Portland Pattern Repository, designed to showcase patterns in software design. The Wiki established the foundation for future wikis and online collaborative platforms.

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Accidents & Tragedies

TAROM A310 Crash Near Balotesti, Romania

March 31st, 1995 29 years ago

TAROM Flight 371, an Airbus A310-300, crashed near Balotesti, Romania, resulting in the death of all 60 individuals onboard. The flight was operated by TAROM, Romania's national airline, and was en route from Bucharest to Brussels. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft encountered severe turbulence, which the crew attempted to navigate. However, the plane lost altitude rapidly and ultimately crashed into a field just outside the city, marking a significant tragedy in Romanian aviation history.

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Crime & Law

Selena's Tragic Death at Days Inn

March 31st, 1995 29 years ago

Selena Quintanilla, a rising star in Tejano music, was murdered by Yolanda Saldívar, the president of her fan club, at a Days Inn in Corpus Christi, Texas. The incident occurred after a confrontation regarding financial matters between the two. Despite Selena's attempts to resolve the situation, Saldívar fatally shot her in the back as she tried to escape. This shocking act of violence startled fans and the music industry alike.

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Military & Warfare

Russian Troops Engaged in Civilian Massacre

April 7th, 1995 29 years ago

During an armed operation in the Chechen village of Samashki, Russian paramilitary troops perpetrated violence against civilians. The onslaught resulted in numerous deaths and destruction of property. This operation was part of a broader military campaign by the Russian Federation to regain control over Chechnya amidst escalating tensions and armed conflict. The village, considered a stronghold of Chechen fighters, was targeted due to its supposed links to the independence movement.

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