What Happened This Year 1998
Historical Events from This Year 1998
Japan Launches Nozomi Mars Probe
Japan's Nozomi probe, coming from the ISAS, launched successfully towards Mars. The mission aimed to investigate the Martian atmosphere, analyze its history, and understand its water resources. Nozomi embarked from Tanegashima Space Center, marking Japan's entry into interplanetary exploration alongside the US and Russia. Despite subsequent challenges in orbit insertion, the mission aimed to gather crucial data about Mars' climate and geology, representing a significant boost for Japanese space science.
Continue ReadingHong Kong International Airport Launches
Hong Kong International Airport, located on Chek Lap Kok, officially opened as the new airport for Hong Kong, replacing the former Kai Tak Airport. The opening marked the culmination of a significant infrastructure project aimed at expanding the city’s capacity to handle international air travel. This state-of-the-art facility was designed with advanced features to accommodate the growing demand for flights into and out of Hong Kong, a vital global air traffic hub.
Continue ReadingDiocese of Dallas Settles Abuse Claims for $23.4 Million
The Diocese of Dallas reached a settlement of $23.4 million to compensate nine former altar boys who alleged they were sexually abused by Rudolph Kos, a former priest. This settlement was part of a series of legal actions aimed at addressing decades of clergy abuse within the Catholic Church. The allegations came to light as part of a growing scrutiny of the church's handling of abuse cases, revealing systemic issues and prompting calls for greater accountability.
Continue ReadingUlster Volunteer Force Attacks Quinn Brothers' Home
In Ballymoney, County Antrim, the Ulster Volunteer Force launched a brutal attack using petrol bombs against the home of the Quinn brothers. The attack resulted in the deaths of two siblings, marking a grim reminder of the sectarian violence that plagued Northern Ireland during its troubled history. The volatile atmosphere of the region contributed to a series of such incidents where communities lived in fear of targeted violence.
Continue ReadingAssassination of Tamil MP S. Shanmuganathan
S. Shanmuganathan, a Sri Lankan Tamil Member of Parliament, was killed by a claymore mine in an attack attributed to military forces during the Sri Lankan Civil War. The incident occurred while he was traveling in a vehicle, showcasing the ongoing violence and political instability faced by the Tamil population in Sri Lanka. Shanmuganathan was a prominent figure, advocating for Tamil rights in a tumultuous political environment strained by the prolonged civil conflict.
Continue ReadingAdoption of the Rome Statute Establishing ICC
Delegates from over 160 nations convened in Rome to adopt the Rome Statute, which established the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. This landmark treaty aims to prosecute individuals for serious international crimes, including genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression, marking a significant step towards justice and accountability on a global scale.
Continue ReadingPapua New Guinea Earthquake Triggers Devastating Tsunami
A massive 7.0 Mw earthquake struck Papua New Guinea, triggering a devastating tsunami that obliterated ten villages along the northeast coast. This catastrophic event resulted in the deaths of approximately 2,700 people and left thousands more injured. The quake, originating from the tectonic plates in the region, not only caused immediate destruction but also highlighted the geological vulnerabilities faced by coastal communities in Papua New Guinea.
Continue ReadingCapitol Shooting by Russell Eugene Weston Jr.
Russell Eugene Weston Jr. entered the United States Capitol building brandishing a firearm and opened fire, resulting in the deaths of two Capitol Police officers. The shooting occurred in a public area inside the Capitol, and Weston was subsequently apprehended at the scene. Authorities quickly ruled him incompetent to stand trial due to mental health issues, raising questions about security protocols within one of the most important government buildings in the United States.
Continue ReadingPuntland Declares Autonomy in Northeastern Somalia
Puntland was officially established as an autonomous state in northeastern Somalia after a pivotal constitutional conference held in Garowe. This gathering saw consensus among Issims and tribal chiefs who aimed to create a self-declared government as a means to take charge of their regional affairs, especially during a time of chaos in Somalia. The need for governance arose from ongoing civil strife, which had left the country fragmented for years.
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