What Happened This Year 2004

Historical Events from This Year 2004

Accidents & Tragedies

Massive Supermarket Fire in Asunción, Paraguay

August 1st, 2004 20 years ago

A devastating fire broke out in a supermarket in Asunción, resulting in 396 deaths and injuries to 500 others. The blaze occurred during a busy shopping day and trapped many customers inside. Emergency services faced challenges in controlling the fire, exacerbated by the store's design. Victims were mostly shoppers and employees, and the tragedy highlighted severe safety and regulatory failures in public buildings.

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Cultural Traditions

Statue of Liberty Pedestal Reopens to Visitors

August 3rd, 2004 20 years ago

After closure due to security concerns following the September 11 attacks, the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty reopened to the public on August 3, 2004. This reopening allowed visitors to once again experience the statue's impressive views and historical significance. During the closure, the National Park Service implemented extensive security measures, which included limiting access to the statue's grounds and enhanced screening of visitors. The reopening was celebrated with media coverage and a renewed interest in the landmark.

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Crime & Law

Dave Matthews Band Bus Dumps Waste on Boat

August 8th, 2004 20 years ago

A tour bus used by the Dave Matthews Band accidentally released approximately 800 pounds of human waste onto a boat filled with passengers in Chicago, Illinois. The incident occurred while the bus was crossing an overpass near the river. Passengers on the boat reported the unpleasant surprise, and the band later expressed regret over the incident, which drew considerable media attention.

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Crime & Law

Massacre of Congolese Tutsi Refugees

August 13th, 2004 20 years ago

In a brutal attack, armed assailants invaded the Gatumba refugee camp in Burundi, resulting in the massacre of 156 Congolese Tutsi refugees. The perpetrators, reportedly from the Hutu community, targeted the camp during the night, leading to widespread shock and condemnation. The Marcelle camp, established to shelter those fleeing violence, became the scene of horrific tragedy as many refugees were killed and injured, and survivors were left traumatized by the violence against them.

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Politics & Government

Serbia Adopts New National Symbols

August 17th, 2004 20 years ago

The Serbian National Assembly unanimously adopted 'Bože pravde' as the new national anthem and a new coat of arms for Serbia. This decision was made during a session aimed at solidifying national identity following significant political changes in the region. 'Bože pravde', which translates to 'God of Justice', holds a historic significance as it was originally written in the 19th century. The adoption reflects a broader effort to establish a cohesive national representation in Serbia post-Miloshevic.

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Economics & Industry

Google's Initial Public Offering on Nasdaq

August 19th, 2004 20 years ago

Google Inc. launched its initial public offering on Nasdaq, marking a significant milestone in the tech industry. The company was offered at a price of $85 per share, and it raised approximately $1.67 billion, positioning itself as a major player in the market. This IPO received considerable attention, both for the company's innovative business model and the unique auction process used to allocate shares. Google's co-founders, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, played pivotal roles in this event, setting the stage for the company's growth trajectory in the years to come.

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Crime & Law

The Scream and Madonna paintings stolen in Oslo

August 22nd, 2004 20 years ago

Two famous paintings by Edvard Munch, 'The Scream' and 'Madonna,' were stolen from the Munch Museum in Oslo, Norway, during broad daylight. Armed thieves entered the museum and threatened staff and visitors before making off with the iconic artworks. The brazen heist, occurring at around 11 a.m., drew significant media attention as these works are considered vital to Norway’s cultural heritage, reflecting the country’s devotion to Munch's legacy. The paintings were valued at millions and the theft raised concerns over museum security in an age when art theft has become increasingly prevalent.

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Crime & Law

Explosions of Two Airliners from Moscow Airport

August 24th, 2004 20 years ago

Two Russian airliners, Aeroflot Flight 8912 and Siberia Airlines Flight 1047, exploded in midair after taking off from Domodedovo International Airport, near Moscow. The explosions were caused by suicide bombers, believed to be from Chechnya, resulting in the death of 90 passengers and crew. This coordinated attack took place within minutes of each takeoff, leading to chaos and devastation, as families and friends lost loved ones without warning. Details emerged that the bombers had hidden explosives in their carry-on luggage, showcasing a grievous act of terrorism in the region.

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Crime & Law

Beslan School Siege: Hostage Crisis in Russia

September 1st, 2004 20 years ago

Armed terrorists took more than 1,100 hostages, including schoolchildren and staff, in Beslan, North Ossetia. The siege began during the first day of school, creating a chaotic situation as parents gathered outside. Over three days, negotiations failed, leading to a tragic assault by Russian security forces that resulted in the deaths of over 385 individuals, both hostages and terrorists, marking one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Russia's history.

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