What Happened This Year 1998
Historical Events from This Year 1998
Launch of ATSC HDTV Broadcasting.
The inauguration of ATSC HDTV broadcasting in the United States coincided with the STS-95 space shuttle mission. This marked a significant advancement in television technology, allowing for high-definition broadcasts, which would transform visual media consumption. The mission, conducted by NASA, involved a crewed spaceflight that included notable astronaut John Glenn, who was returning to space after a long hiatus.
Continue ReadingJohn Glenn returns to space at age 77
Space Shuttle Discovery launched on its STS-95 mission, carrying a crew that included 77-year-old John Glenn, who made history as the oldest person to go into space. This mission marked Glenn's second journey into space, following his earlier flight aboard Friendship 7 in 1962. The shuttle lifted off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida and was designed to conduct various scientific experiments in microgravity. Glenn's participation was not only a personal achievement but also highlighted the importance of experience in space exploration.
Continue ReadingTruth and Reconciliation Commission Report Launched
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of South Africa presented its final report, condemning atrocities committed by both the apartheid regime and anti-apartheid groups. Established in 1995, the TRC aimed to address the human rights violations that occurred during apartheid and to promote national healing and reconciliation. Chaired by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the commission documented testimonies from victims and perpetrators alike, ultimately seeking to establish a narrative for the country moving forward.
Continue ReadingHurricane Mitch Strikes Honduras
Hurricane Mitch made landfall in Honduras, becoming one of the most powerful hurricanes recorded in the Atlantic. Starting as a tropical depression in the Caribbean Sea, it intensified rapidly and reached Category 5 status. On October 29, the storm caused catastrophic flooding and landslides, primarily affecting Honduras and Nicaragua. Over the days that followed, Mitch resulted in widespread destruction, with thousands of homes destroyed and significant loss of life. The hurricane's severe rainfall triggered landslides and overwhelmed rivers, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Continue ReadingIraq Halts Cooperation with UN Inspectors
Iraq announced its decision to stop cooperating with United Nations weapons inspectors. This declaration came amid increasing tensions over Iraq's compliance with disarmament resolutions following the Gulf War. The Iraqi government, led by President Saddam Hussein, cited grievances against the inspections as reasons for its withdrawal, claiming the inspections were intrusive and politically motivated. The announcement posed significant challenges for the international community and raised concerns about Iraq's weapons capabilities.
Continue ReadingLargest Civil Settlement for NASDAQ Investors
A U.S. federal judge ordered 37 brokerages to pay $1.03 billion to compensate NASDAQ investors affected by price fixing. This landmark ruling addressed the issue of market manipulation and held brokerage firms accountable for their actions. Investors were reimbursed for their losses, marking the largest civil settlement in American history related to financial misconduct. The case highlighted the need for stricter regulations in the financial sector.
Continue ReadingComplete Abolition of Capital Punishment
The UK Parliament enacted a law abolishing capital punishment for all remaining offenses, following years of legislative change and public discourse. This measure marked the final step in a long process that began with the abolition for murder in 1965. The decision was driven by growing humanitarian concerns and debates about the effectiveness of capital punishment as a deterrent. Lawmakers emphasized the importance of human rights and the value of life, reflecting a significant shift in moral and ethical standards within British society.
Continue ReadingImpeachment Hearings Against Bill Clinton Begin
The United States House of Representatives Judiciary Committee commenced impeachment hearings against President Bill Clinton. These hearings were a response to allegations involving Clinton's affair with Monica Lewinsky, a White House intern. The proceedings were highly publicized and politically charged, drawing significant national attention as lawmakers debated the implications of the President's actions and credibility.
Continue ReadingLaunch of Zarya, First ISS Module Component
Zarya, the first module of the International Space Station, was launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. This key component, known as the Functional Cargo Block (FGB), was put into orbit on a Proton rocket. Zarya serves essential functions, including power generation, storage, and propulsion, marking a significant step in international collaboration in space exploration. The launch represented a collaborative effort between the United States and Russia, paving the way for further development of the ISS.
Continue Reading