What Happened This Year 1998

Historical Events from This Year 1998

Politics & Government

Bill Clinton Impeached by House of Representatives

December 19th, 1998 26 years ago

President Bill Clinton was impeached by the House of Representatives, becoming the second U.S. president to face impeachment. The impeachment stemmed from allegations of perjury and obstruction of justice related to his extramarital affair with Monica Lewinsky. The House voted largely along party lines, with two articles of impeachment approved. Clinton maintained that he did not commit any crimes.

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Military & Warfare

Iraq Threatens Fire on Allied Aircraft

December 26th, 1998 26 years ago

Iraq announced its intention to target U.S. and British warplanes patrolling the northern and southern no-fly zones established after the Gulf War. The declaration came amid increasing tensions between Iraq and the West, particularly over the country's compliance with UN weapons inspections. Iraqi officials claimed that the incursions by foreign aircraft were violations of its sovereignty and threatened military action. This announcement escalated fears of renewed conflict in the region as the U.S. and the UK maintained their stance on enforcing the no-fly zones to protect Kurdish and Shia populations in Iraq.

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Politics & Government

Khmer Rouge Leaders Offer Apology for Genocide

December 29th, 1998 26 years ago

In a notable reconciliation gesture, leaders of the Khmer Rouge publicly expressed remorse for their role in the Cambodian genocide, which took the lives of over one million people. This event occurred in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, where Khieu Samphan and Nuon Chea, key figures of the regime, acknowledged the suffering caused during their rule from 1975 to 1979. Their admissions were seen as a critical step toward a national healing process.

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Economics & Industry

Euro Currency Value Established in Eurozone

December 31st, 1998 26 years ago

The European Exchange Rate Mechanism set fixed exchange rates for legacy currencies in participating countries, leading to the establishment of the euro. The mechanism aimed to stabilize currencies in preparation for the euro's introduction as a uniform currency across Europe, facilitating trade and economic integration. This pivotal moment marked the transition from national currencies to a common European currency, a significant step forward in European economic cooperation.

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