What Happened This Year 2000

Historical Events from This Year 2000

Space Exploration

NASA's Milestone: STS-92 Launch Success

October 11th, 2000 24 years ago

The STS-92 mission marked NASA's 100th Space Shuttle launch, successfully taking off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission's primary objective was to deliver and install the Z1 Truss and a Pressurized Mating Adapter to the International Space Station. Commander Jeffrey Ashby led a crew of seven, embarking on an 11-day journey that focused on critical assembly tasks for the orbiting lab. This mission was significant in showcasing NASA's continued commitment to human space exploration and laying the groundwork for future missions.

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Military & Warfare

USS Cole Attack by Al-Qaeda Suicide Bombers

October 12th, 2000 24 years ago

The USS Cole, a US Navy destroyer, suffered a severe attack by two suicide bombers linked to al-Qaeda while docked in Aden, Yemen. The assault resulted in the deaths of 17 American sailors, with at least 39 others wounded. The attackers used a small explosive-laden boat to ram the destroyer, causing significant damage to the vessel and highlighting vulnerabilities in U.S. military security overseas. This brazen attack marked a significant escalation in al-Qaeda's campaign against American interests.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Hatfield Rail Crash Results in Railtrack's Collapse

October 17th, 2000 24 years ago

The Hatfield rail crash resulted from a faulty rail causing a train to derail, leading to four fatalities and dozens of injuries. The incident occurred near Hatfield, Hertfordshire, England, and raised serious questions about rail safety and maintenance practices. In the aftermath, the accident prompted scrutiny of Railtrack's management and operations, ultimately contributing to its financial collapse and restructuring as Network Rail.

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Politics & Government

Protests Lead to Robert Guéï's Resignation

October 26th, 2000 24 years ago

In late October 2000, widespread protests erupted in Ivory Coast following allegations of electoral fraud in the presidential election. Robert Guéï, who assumed power after a coup in 1999, faced intense public outcry as opposition supporters rallied against his leadership. As the unrest grew, Guéï's authority weakened, culminating in his resignation amid mounting pressure from demonstrators demanding a fair electoral process and transparency in governance.

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Space Exploration

Soyuz TM-31 Launches First ISS Resident Crew

October 31st, 2000 24 years ago

Soyuz TM-31 launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome, carrying the first resident crew to the International Space Station (ISS). This mission marked the beginning of continuous human presence in space, with the crew consisting of Russian and American astronauts who would conduct scientific research and maintain the ISS. The success of this launch underscored international collaboration in space exploration.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Singapore Airlines Flight 006 Crash Overview

October 31st, 2000 24 years ago

Singapore Airlines Flight 006, operating from Taipei to Singapore, crashed during takeoff from Taoyuan International Airport. The aircraft collided with construction equipment on the runway, leading to the deaths of 83 people, comprising 79 passengers and 4 crew members. The incident occurred when the plane mistakenly attempted to take off from the wrong runway, which was still under construction. Emergency responders faced challenges due to the fire that engulfed the aircraft following the crash, complicating rescue efforts.

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Politics & Government

Serbia and Montenegro Becomes UN Member

November 1st, 2000 24 years ago

On November 1, 2000, Serbia and Montenegro was officially admitted to the United Nations. Following the disintegration of the former Yugoslavia, the country sought membership as an independent entity, reflecting its desire to engage with the international community. The UN welcomed its membership in a ceremony held at its headquarters in New York City, marking a significant step in the region's post-Yugoslav integration and political evolution.

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Politics & Government

Chhattisgarh Established as India's 26th State

November 1st, 2000 24 years ago

Chhattisgarh officially became the 26th state of India, derived from the eastern districts of Madhya Pradesh, which consisted of sixteen districts. The reorganization aimed to facilitate better governance and cater to the distinct identity and needs of the local population. Its formation was celebrated by the locals who had long sought greater autonomy, and the new state was marked by the establishment of Raipur as its capital.

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Space Exploration

First Long-Duration Crew Arrives at ISS

November 2nd, 2000 24 years ago

Expedition 1 marked the inaugural long-duration mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Three crew members arrived at the ISS, including cosmonauts Yuri Usachev, and cosmonaut Sergei Krikalev, along with astronaut William Shepherd. They were tasked with conducting scientific research and maintaining the ISS. Their arrival initiated a continuous human presence in space, with crews rotating aboard the station thereafter, cementing the ISS as a hub for human exploration and collaboration in low Earth orbit.

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