What Happened This Year 2004

Historical Events from This Year 2004

Natural Disasters

Dominica's Most Destructive Earthquake

November 21st, 2004 20 years ago

A powerful earthquake struck Dominica, causing significant devastation and loss of life, particularly affecting the town of Portsmouth. The northern half of the island sustained the majority of the damage, with reports indicating that the quake also impacted neighboring Guadeloupe, where one individual lost their life. The earthquake's effects were felt widely, leading to an urgent response for aid and recovery efforts across the region.

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Politics & Government

Ukrainian Presidential Election Protests Erupt

November 21st, 2004 20 years ago

In Ukraine, the second round of the presidential election was marked by widespread protests and claims of electoral fraud. Supporters of opposition candidate Viktor Yushchenko took to the streets of Kyiv to contest the results that favored incumbent Prime Minister Viktor Yanukovych. The situation escalated as millions joined in, demanding a reexamination of the election process and integrity.

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Accidents & Tragedies

China Eastern Airlines Flight 5210 Tragedy

November 21st, 2004 20 years ago

China Eastern Airlines Flight 5210, a regional jet, crashed shortly after taking off from Baotou Donghe Airport in Inner Mongolia, China. The aircraft, which was bound for Shanghai, encountered difficulties during its ascent and went down within minutes, resulting in the deaths of all 55 people aboard. Investigators later determined that pilot error and adverse weather conditions contributed to the crash, marking it as one of the serious aviation incidents in China.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Orange Revolution Erupts in Ukraine

November 22nd, 2004 20 years ago

In Ukraine, widespread protests erupted following the controversial results of the presidential election. Thousands of citizens took to the streets of Kyiv and other cities to challenge the officially declared victory of Viktor Yanukovych over Viktor Yuschenko, whom many viewed as the rightful winner. The protests, marked by the color orange symbolizing Yuschenko's campaign, became a significant movement for democracy and electoral reform. Citizens demanded a re-run of the election due to allegations of fraud and manipulation, leading to a sustained occupation of Independence Square.

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Religion & Philosophy

Consecration of the Holy Trinity Cathedral

November 23rd, 2004 20 years ago

The Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, also known as Sameba, was consecrated in the presence of numerous clergy and officials. This grand event marked a significant milestone in the religious landscape of Georgia. The cathedral symbolizes the revival of the Georgian Orthodox Church and was constructed as a response to the spiritual needs of the nation. Its architecture reflects the country's historical and cultural richness, affirming the identity and unity of the Georgian people.

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Crime & Law

Ruzhou School Dormitory Stabbing Incident

November 26th, 2004 20 years ago

A man entered a school dormitory in Ruzhou, China, and fatally attacked multiple individuals, resulting in the deaths of eight people and serious injuries to four others. This attack was characterized by its suddenness and brutality, occurring late at night when many of the victims were likely asleep. The assailant was apprehended shortly after the incident, and the event sparked a nationwide discussion regarding safety in educational institutions and mental health issues associated with such violent acts.

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Natural Disasters

Last Poʻouli Dies, Likely Extinct Species

November 26th, 2004 20 years ago

The last known Poʻouli, a rare honeycreeper, died at the Maui Bird Conservation Center in Olinda, Hawaii due to avian malaria. This bird was significant as it represented an entire species that had faced severe decline. Conservationists had hoped to breed the Poʻouli to ensure its continuation, but the death marked a pivotal moment in the struggle to preserve Hawaiian avian biodiversity.

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Religion & Philosophy

Return of Saint John Chrysostom's Relics

November 27th, 2004 20 years ago

Pope John Paul II returned the relics of Saint John Chrysostom to the Eastern Orthodox Church at a special ceremony in Istanbul. This significant act was aimed at fostering unity between the Catholic and Orthodox churches, reflecting a commitment to reconciliation and dialogue. The relics were received with great reverence and celebration, symbolizing the shared heritage and respect between the two faith traditions.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Blackwater 61: CASA C-212 Aviocar Crash

November 27th, 2004 20 years ago

A CASA C-212 Aviocar operated by Blackwater crashed into the Koh-i-Baba mountain range in Afghanistan, resulting in the deaths of six individuals. This incident underscored the risks faced by private military contractors involved in operations in hostile environments. The aircraft was reportedly on a flight from Kabul to Bagram, tasked with delivering personnel and supplies. As it encountered adverse conditions, it lost altitude and crashed into the rugged terrain, signaling critical safety concerns for aviation operations in similar conditions.

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