What Happened This Year 2006

Historical Events from This Year 2006

Politics & Government

Ehud Olmert Becomes Acting Prime Minister

January 4th, 2006 19 years ago

Following Ariel Sharon's serious medical crisis, Ehud Olmert was appointed as the acting Prime Minister of Israel. This transition occurred after Sharon suffered a second, more debilitating stroke. The situation posed significant political uncertainty in Israel, as Olmert took charge during a crucial period while Sharon's health was still in decline. Olmert, then deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Trade and Industry, was tasked with maintaining the government's stability amidst the turbulence.

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Religion & Philosophy

Stampede at Stoning of the Devil Ritual

January 12th, 2006 19 years ago

A stampede occurred during the Stoning of the Devil ritual in Mina, resulting in the deaths of at least 362 Muslim pilgrims. This ritual is a part of the Hajj pilgrimage, where pilgrims hurl stones at three pillars symbolizing the rejection of evil. The stampede was attributed to overcrowding, as thousands of pilgrims gathered simultaneously at the site. The incident raised concerns over crowd management and safety protocols during the pilgrimage, which draws millions from around the world each year.

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Politics & Government

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf becomes Liberia's president

January 16th, 2006 19 years ago

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was sworn in as Liberia's president, making history as Africa's first female elected head of state. Her inauguration occurred after a prolonged civil conflict, representing a new era of governance in Liberia. This significant moment was marked by a ceremony at the Providence Island in Monrovia, attended by various dignitaries. Sirleaf's leadership was viewed as a beacon of hope for the nation, which was striving to rebuild itself after years of turmoil and instability. Her commitment to democratic principles and development was central to her presidency.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Slovak Air Force Antonov An-24 Fatal Crash

January 19th, 2006 19 years ago

A Slovak Air Force Antonov An-24 crashed in Hejce, Hungary, killing 42 people. The plane was on a training flight when it collided with a hill, resulting in a major loss of life. The incident raised concerns over the safety protocols and technical preparedness of military aircraft operations in the region.

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Politics & Government

Evo Morales Becomes First Indigenous President of Bolivia

January 22nd, 2006 19 years ago

Evo Morales was inaugurated as Bolivia's first indigenous president, symbolizing a significant moment for the country's indigenous population. His election reflected the growing political power of indigenous communities and marked a shift in Bolivia's political landscape. Morales's administration promised to address longstanding social injustices and focus on national resource control.

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Crime & Law

Arrest of Juana Barraza Linked to Serial Killings

January 25th, 2006 19 years ago

Juana Barraza, a Mexican professional wrestler, was arrested in connection with the serial killings of at least ten elderly women in Mexico City. Known by her wrestling persona 'La Mataviejitas' or 'The Old Lady Killer', Barraza was suspected of targeting vulnerable women in their homes since 2003. Her arrest came after a lengthy police investigation that linked her to the crimes through forensic evidence, including DNA. Barraza's case garnered significant media attention and raised awareness about violence against the elderly and women's safety in Mexico.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Katowice Fair Building Roof Collapse

January 28th, 2006 19 years ago

A catastrophic roof collapse at the Katowice International Fair in Poland resulted in 65 fatalities and more than 170 injuries due to heavy snowfall. The incident occurred when the weight of accumulated snow exceeded the building's structural integrity. Rescuers worked tirelessly to evacuate victims trapped beneath the debris, amidst tragic scenes of despair in freezing temperatures.

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Crime & Law

Goleta Postal Facility Shooting Incident

January 30th, 2006 19 years ago

A shooting at the Goleta postal facility resulted in the deaths of seven employees, each executed by the shooter, Jennifer San Marco, a former employee of the facility. Following the horrific act, San Marco took her own life inside the building. The incident caused widespread panic and raised concerns about workplace violence, the mental health of employees, and gun control in the United States.

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Politics & Government

Stephen Harper Takes Office as Prime Minister

February 6th, 2006 19 years ago

On February 6, 2006, Stephen Harper was sworn in as the 22nd Prime Minister of Canada, marking the beginning of his Conservative government. Following a closely contested election on January 23, Harper's victory ended a decade of Liberal Party rule under Paul Martin. His ascension signified a significant ideological shift in Canadian politics, as his party aimed to implement more conservative policies and governance. The swearing-in ceremony, attended by various dignitaries, was held at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, the official residence of the Governor General of Canada, who administered the oath of office.

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