What Happened This Year 2005

Historical Events from This Year 2005

Sports & Recreation

NHL Cancels 2004–05 Regular Season and Playoffs

February 16th, 2005 20 years ago

The NHL officially canceled its entire regular season and playoffs following the failure to reach a labor agreement between the league and the Players' Association. The dispute centered around salary caps and revenue sharing, which caused significant turmoil within the league. This unprecedented step marked the first time a North American sports league canceled an entire season due to a labor dispute, impacting fans, players, and businesses reliant on hockey.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Kyoto Protocol officially becomes binding treaty

February 16th, 2005 20 years ago

The Kyoto Protocol, an international treaty aimed at combating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, officially came into force after being ratified by Russia. This marked a significant milestone in global efforts to address environmental concerns. The treaty, negotiated in Kyoto, Japan, in 1997, needed ratification by at least 55 countries representing 55% of global emissions. With Russia's involvement, the necessary thresholds were met, solidifying commitments from developed nations to reduce their emissions by an average of 5.2% below 1990 levels during the initial commitment period from 2008 to 2012.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Spain Votes to Ratify EU Constitution

February 20th, 2005 20 years ago

Spain held a referendum on the ratification of the proposed Constitution of the European Union, with a majority supporting the constitutional proposal despite witnessing a low turnout among eligible voters. This pivotal decision marked Spain's first direct public intervention in the constitutional process of the EU, reflecting the nation's commitment to a united Europe.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Severe Zarand Earthquake Hits Kerman Province

February 22nd, 2005 20 years ago

A powerful 6.4 Mw earthquake struck the Kerman province in Iran, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. With a maximum Mercalli intensity of VIII, it resulted in the deaths of 612 individuals and left 1,411 others injured. Rescue operations were initiated immediately but were hampered by aftershocks and the mountainous terrain in the region. The community faced significant challenges in recovery due to the extensive damage to infrastructure and homes, impacting thousands of residents.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Supreme Court bans juvenile executions

March 1st, 2005 20 years ago

In a significant ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that executing individuals for crimes committed while they were juveniles is unconstitutional. This landmark decision determined that the United States violates the Eighth Amendment's prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment when it sentences minors to death. The case stemmed from the 1993 conviction of Christopher Simmons, who was 17 at the time of his crime. The ruling was pivotal in reshaping the legal landscape surrounding juvenile justice and capital punishment.

Continue Reading
Exploration & Discovery

Steve Fossett's Solo Non-Stop Flight Around the World

March 3rd, 2005 20 years ago

Steve Fossett completed the first solo, non-stop flight around the world without refueling, an achievement that marked a significant milestone in aviation history. Launching from Salina, Kansas, he embarked on a journey that covered approximately 26,389 miles over the course of 67 hours and 1 minute. Fossett piloted the lightweight, specially designed aircraft called the GlobalFlyer, which was built to sustain long distances without refueling. This record-breaking flight showcased technological advancements in aviation and demonstrated human endurance and skill in the face of challenges posed by such a long-duration journey.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Margaret Wilson Becomes Speaker of Parliament

March 3rd, 2005 20 years ago

Margaret Wilson was elected as the Speaker of the New Zealand House of Representatives, marking a significant moment in the nation’s political landscape. Her election initiated a unique period where New Zealand held the distinction of having all the highest political offices occupied by women, including Elizabeth II as Head of State. This unprecedented alignment symbolized a breakthrough in gender representation in political leadership roles, highlighting New Zealand's progressive stance on women in governance.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

James Roszko Attacks RCMP During Drug Bust

March 3rd, 2005 20 years ago

In Rochfort Bridge, Alberta, James Roszko fatally shot four Royal Canadian Mounted Police constables during a drug bust at his rural property. The officers were conducting an operation related to the illegal drug trade, and Roszko, who was armed, opened fire on them before taking his own life. This incident marked the deadliest peace-time attack on the RCMP since the North-West Rebellion in 1885.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Israel Transfers Jericho to Palestinian Authority

March 16th, 2005 19 years ago

On this day, Israel officially transferred control of Jericho to the Palestinian Authority as part of a broader plan to implement Palestinian self-governance. The withdrawal marked a significant moment in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, signaling a potential shift towards further autonomy for Palestinian territories.

Continue Reading