What Happened This Year 1997

Historical Events from This Year 1997

Accidents & Tragedies

Comair Flight 3272 crashes in Michigan

January 9th, 1997 28 years ago

Comair Flight 3272, a Bombardier Canadair CRJ-200, crashed near Raisinville Township in Monroe County, Michigan, killing all 29 people on board. The aircraft, operated by Comair as a Delta Connection flight, was en route from Cincinnati, Ohio, to Detroit, Michigan. Shortly after takeoff, the flight began experiencing severe icing conditions, which contributed to the loss of control and subsequent crash into a field. The incident underscored the significant challenges of winter flying and the importance of monitoring weather conditions.

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Space Exploration

Atlantis Launches for Mission STS-81 to Mir

January 12th, 1997 28 years ago

The Space Shuttle Atlantis launched from Kennedy Space Center on mission STS-81, transporting astronaut Jerry M. Linenger to the Russian space station Mir. Linenger replaced John E. Blaha, marking the continuation of American efforts to collaborate with Russia in space. This mission was essential for furthering international cooperation in human space exploration.

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Space Exploration

Delta II Rocket Explodes After Launch

January 17th, 1997 28 years ago

A Delta II rocket carrying the GPS IIR-1 satellite experienced a catastrophic failure just 13 seconds after liftoff from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The explosion scattered around 250 tons of burning rocket debris in the vicinity of the launch pad, highlighting the risks associated with space launches. The Delta II mission aimed to enhance the capabilities of the Global Positioning System, emphasizing the importance of satellite technology for navigation and military applications.

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Politics & Government

Yasser Arafat Celebrates in Hebron

January 19th, 1997 28 years ago

Yasser Arafat returned to Hebron to celebrate the handover of the city from Israeli control. This event marked his first visit to Hebron in over 30 years, with many Palestinians joining in the festivities to commemorate the significance of the event. The transfer of authority was part of the Israel-Palestine peace process and aimed at enhancing Palestinian self-determination.

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Politics & Government

Gingrich Reprimanded for Ethics Violations

January 21st, 1997 28 years ago

Newt Gingrich, the Speaker of the House, faced a significant reprimand for ethical misconduct. The House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly, 395 to 28, to formally reprimand him, marking a historic moment as he became the first Speaker to receive such a disciplinary action. The violations included using tax-exempt contributions for personal benefit and misleading House ethics investigators. This reprimand was prompted by a lengthy investigation into his actions while in office and drew considerable media attention.

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Politics & Government

Madeleine Albright's Historic Appointment

January 23rd, 1997 28 years ago

Madeleine Albright was confirmed as the first female United States Secretary of State, serving under President Bill Clinton. Albright, who fled her home in Czechoslovakia due to Nazi persecution, had previously served as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Her confirmation was seen as a significant advancement for women in political leadership roles and marked a new era in American foreign policy. She officially took office on January 23, 1997, in Washington, D.C.

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Natural Disasters

Bojnurd Earthquake Causes Extensive Damage in Iran

February 4th, 1997 28 years ago

A significant earthquake measuring Mw 6.5 struck Iran, leading to a Mercalli intensity of VIII. The earthquake resulted in at least 88 fatalities and damaged 173 villages, causing widespread destruction and immediate humanitarian crises. Rescue and relief efforts were launched to assist those affected, highlighting the region's vulnerability to seismic activity and the need for improved preparedness.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Collision of Israeli CH-53 Helicopters

February 4th, 1997 28 years ago

Two Israeli Sikorsky CH-53 troop-transport helicopters collided in mid-air over northern Galilee, resulting in the deaths of 73 military personnel. The aircraft were en route to conduct operations related to the Lebanon conflict when the tragic mishap occurred. This incident involved pilots and crew members who were part of the Israeli Defense Forces, showcasing the risks faced by military operations.

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Economics & Industry

Swiss Banks Create Fund for Holocaust Survivors

February 5th, 1997 28 years ago

In a significant financial commitment, the major Swiss banks, UBS, Credit Suisse, and Swiss Bank Corporation, agreed to establish a $71 million fund aimed at aiding Holocaust survivors and their families. This initiative was part of a broader effort to address past financial injustices connected to the Holocaust, revealing the banks’ intentions to contribute positively to a community that suffered profound losses. The announcement drew global attention, highlighting the importance of restitution and recognition for Holocaust survivors.

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