What Happened This Year 1999

Historical Events from This Year 1999

Crime & Law

Nail Bombing at Admiral Duncan Gay Pub

April 30th, 1999 25 years ago

A neo-Nazi named David Copeland carried out his final nail bombing at the Admiral Duncan pub in London, targeting the gay community. The attack resulted in the deaths of three people and injuries to 79 others, making it one of the most devastating acts of violence against the LGBTQ+ community in the UK. Copeland's actions were motivated by his extreme far-right beliefs, aiming to incite fear and division within society. The bombing underscored the ongoing issues of hate crimes and discrimination based on sexual orientation in the late 1990s.

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Exploration & Discovery

Discovery of George Mallory on Everest

May 1st, 1999 25 years ago

In May 1999, the body of British climber George Mallory was discovered on Mount Everest, 75 years after he vanished during a historic ascent attempt in 1924. Mallory, who was part of an early expedition to summit Everest, had been missing for decades, sparking much intrigue regarding whether he and his climbing partner, Andrew Irvine, reached the summit before their disappearance. The discovery was made by a team led by climber Conrad Anker, who identified Mallory's remains at approximately 8,155 meters (26,000 feet) on the mountain's north face.

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Politics & Government

Mireya Moscoso elected as Panama's first female president

May 2nd, 1999 25 years ago

Mireya Moscoso won the presidential election in Panama, marking a significant milestone as the country's first female president. Running as a candidate from the Panameñista Party, she secured victory over her main opponent, Martin Torrijos. Her election was celebrated by many as a progressive step for gender representation in politics in a nation where leadership roles had traditionally been occupied by men. This election was pivotal in altering the political landscape of Panama.

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Military & Warfare

Infiltration of Pakistani Soldiers in Kargil.

May 3rd, 1999 25 years ago

In May 1999, Pakistani soldiers infiltrated positions on the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC) in the Kargil district of Ladakh. The intrusion was marked by poorly maintained communications and resulted from political and military strategies by Pakistan. During this operation, Pakistani troops occupied key heights overlooking the highway connecting Srinagar to Leh, significantly impacting Indian military operations. The situation escalated into armed conflict as Indian forces launched a counter-offensive to reclaim the territory.

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Natural Disasters

Devastating F5 Tornado Strikes Oklahoma City

May 3rd, 1999 25 years ago

A powerful F5 tornado ravaged the southwestern part of Oklahoma City, resulting in the deaths of 45 individuals, injuring 665 others, and causing an estimated $1 billion in damages. This tornado is notable for producing the highest recorded wind speed of 301 mph, a record that highlights the extreme nature of the storm. The event is part of the larger Oklahoma tornado outbreak, which included 66 tornadoes, profoundly impacting the local community and its infrastructure.

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Politics & Government

Devolved Governments Established in Scotland and Wales

May 6th, 1999 25 years ago

The first elections for the devolved Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly occurred in May 1999, marking a significant step in the devolution of power from Westminster. Voters in Scotland and Wales participated in a unique hybrid voting system that combined proportional representation with first-past-the-post. This election was prompted by growing demands for self-governance and local representation, reflecting the distinct cultural identities of both nations within the United Kingdom. The elections set the stage for the newly established institutions to address local issues and promote regional interests.

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Politics & Government

Military Coup Ousts President João Bernardo Vieira

May 7th, 1999 25 years ago

In Guinea-Bissau, a military coup led to the ousting of President João Bernardo Vieira. This abrupt change occurred after escalating tensions between Vieira's government and military factions. Discontent had been growing over corruption and political instability, prompting military leaders to take control. The coup was marked by violence, with military forces seizing key government buildings in the capital, Bissau. As a result, Vieira was forced from power, leading to significant changes in the country's political landscape.

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Religion & Philosophy

Pope John Paul II's Historic Romania Visit

May 7th, 1999 25 years ago

Pope John Paul II traveled to Romania, marking a significant milestone as he became the first pope to visit a predominantly Eastern Orthodox country since the Great Schism in 1054. The visit was aimed at fostering dialogue between the Catholic and Orthodox churches, promoting reconciliation and unity among Christians. It included meetings with Orthodox leaders and a large open-air Mass in Bucharest, attended by thousands. The trip was a gesture of goodwill and an effort to bridge historical divides.

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Military & Warfare

NATO Bombing of Chinese Embassy in Belgrade

May 7th, 1999 25 years ago

On May 7, a NATO aircraft mistakenly bombed the Chinese embassy in Belgrade, resulting in the deaths of three Chinese citizens and injuries to over 20 others. The incident occurred during the Kosovo War, amidst NATO's military campaign against Yugoslavia, aimed at stopping ethnic cleansing in the region. The bombing sparked widespread outrage in China and led to strong diplomatic protests against NATO and the United States, highlighting tensions in international relations.

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