What Happened This Year 1996

Historical Events from This Year 1996

Politics & Government

Launch of Fox News Channel

October 7th, 1996 28 years ago

Fox News Channel began broadcasting from New York City, aiming to provide 24-hour news coverage. Founded by Rupert Murdoch, the channel sought to offer a conservative perspective on news events, distinguishing itself from existing news networks. Initially available to around 17 million households, its unique format and editorial stance gained traction, leading to swift viewership growth. The network's tagline emphasized being 'Fair & Balanced', targeting a perceived gap in the news market.

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Politics & Government

New Zealand's First Mixed-Member Proportional Election

October 12th, 1996 28 years ago

New Zealand's historic transition to a mixed-member proportional representation system culminated in its first general election. This significant event led to Jim Bolger's National Party forming a coalition government with Winston Peters's New Zealand First. The election reflected a major shift in New Zealand's political landscape, breaking with the traditional first-past-the-post system to ensure broader representation of political views in Parliament.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Deadly Stadium Crush in Guatemala City

October 16th, 1996 28 years ago

During a football match in Guatemala City, a massive crush occurred, resulting in the deaths of eighty-four football fans and injuries to approximately 180 others. The incident took place as fans rushed to exit the Estadio Mateo Flores after a dangerous situation erupted within the crowd. This tragic event highlighted the need for improved crowd management and safety measures in large sporting events.

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Accidents & Tragedies

TAM Flight 402 Crashes in São Paulo

October 31st, 1996 28 years ago

TAM Transportes Aéreos Regionais Flight 402 crashed on approach to São Paulo, Brazil, resulting in the deaths of 99 individuals on board. The aircraft, an Embraer EMB-120 Brasília, encountered severe weather conditions and difficulties during landing, leading to the accident. The incident highlighted issues in aviation safety protocols and emergency response in adverse weather, raising concerns about the operational practices of regional airlines in Brazil.

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Politics & Government

Death of Abdullah Çatlı in Susurluk Crash

November 3rd, 1996 28 years ago

Abdullah Çatlı, the prominent leader of the Turkish ultranationalist organization Grey Wolves, died in a car crash in Susurluk, Turkey. The crash also involved a police officer, raising questions about government connections to organized crime. Following the incident, Turkish Interior Minister Mehmet Ağar, affiliated with the True Path Party, resigned amid public scrutiny and allegations linking government officials to criminal activities.

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Politics & Government

Farooq Leghari Dismisses Benazir Bhutto's Government

November 5th, 1996 28 years ago

Pakistani President Farooq Leghari declared the dismissal of Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto's government and the dissolution of the National Assembly, marking a significant shift in Pakistan's political landscape. This decision followed growing tensions and allegations of corruption against Bhutto. The move prompted widespread political ramifications and unrest across the country, leading to a transition period that would reshape Pakistan's political environment for years to come.

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Accidents & Tragedies

ADC Airlines Flight 086 crashes into Lagos Lagoon

November 7th, 1996 28 years ago

ADC Airlines Flight 086, a scheduled passenger flight, crashed into the Lagos Lagoon during its approach to Lagos Airport. The aircraft, a Boeing 727-200, encountered difficulties shortly before landing. Tragically, all 144 passengers and crew members on board lost their lives in the incident.

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Space Exploration

NASA Successfully Deploys Mars Global Surveyor

November 7th, 1996 28 years ago

NASA launched the Mars Global Surveyor spacecraft aboard a Delta II rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida. This mission aimed to map the Martian surface and improve understanding of Mars' topography and geology. With sophisticated imaging technology and high-resolution cameras, it provided essential data about the planet's atmosphere, climate, and potential for past water. The mission significantly advanced Mars exploration and laid groundwork for future missions to the Red Planet.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Devastating Mid-Air Collision Near New Delhi

November 12th, 1996 28 years ago

A Saudi Arabian Airlines Boeing 747 collided with a Kazakh Ilyushin Il-76 cargo plane near New Delhi, resulting in 349 fatalities. This incident is noted as the deadliest mid-air collision in aviation history. The Boeing 747 was on approach for landing while the Il-76 was reportedly operating without proper clearance. The event underscored the dire need for improved air traffic control systems.

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