What Happened This Year 2007

Historical Events from This Year 2007

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Buddhist Monks Protest in Myanmar

September 18th, 2007 17 years ago

In Myanmar, thousands of Buddhist monks began marching in protest against the military government, marking the start of what many would later call the Saffron Revolution. This movement emerged in response to rising fuel prices and perceived government corruption. The monks, donning their saffron robes, gained significant public support as they marched peacefully through Yangon while calling for an end to military rule. Their unique role in the protests highlighted the monks' influence in Burmese society and the people's desire for democratic reforms.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Large March Protests in Support of Convicted Youths

September 20th, 2007 17 years ago

Thousands marched in Jena, Louisiana, to express support for six black juveniles convicted of assaulting a white classmate. The protest highlighted racial tensions in the small Southern town, drawing national attention to the case and igniting conversations about racial justice and community response to perceived injustices. Protesters from various backgrounds gathered to advocate for what they saw as a disproportionate legal response to the altercation.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Massive Anti-Government Protests in Yangon

September 24th, 2007 17 years ago

Tens of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Yangon, Burma, in one of the largest anti-government protests in two decades. The protests were sparked by rising fuel prices and economic hardship, drawing monks and civilians in a rare display of dissent against the military-led government. Monks, who traditionally hold significant influence, marched through the city, demanding governmental reform and an end to oppressive policies. Their involvement amplified the protests, capturing national and international attention.

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Space Exploration

NASA's Dawn Probe Embarks on Asteroid Journey

September 27th, 2007 17 years ago

NASA launched the Dawn spacecraft from Cape Canaveral, aiming to explore the two largest objects in the asteroid belt, Vesta and Ceres. This mission was groundbreaking, utilizing innovative ion propulsion technology to reach these distant targets. Dawn's primary objective was to gather data about the formation of the solar system by studying the composition and structure of these celestial bodies. With a planned mission duration of more than eight years, Dawn was set to provide unparalleled insights about its destinations as it travels deeper into the asteroid belt.

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Science & Technology

Demolition of Calder Hall Nuclear Power Station

September 29th, 2007 17 years ago

Calder Hall, the world's first commercial nuclear power station located in Sellafield, England, was demolished in a controlled explosion. The event marked the end of an era in nuclear energy, as Calder Hall was operational since 1956 and had played a key role in advancing nuclear technology. With the advancement of safety regulations and decommissioning processes, the demolition was part of a longstanding plan to safely dismantle the facility, which had become obsolete over the years due to advancements in nuclear reactor designs and safety standards.

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Politics & Government

Roh Moo-hyun Meets Kim Jong-il in North Korea

October 2nd, 2007 17 years ago

President Roh Moo-hyun of South Korea traveled to North Korea to hold an inter-Korean summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-il. This was significant as it aimed to improve relations between the two Koreas, focusing on peace and cooperation. The meeting explored various topics including economic collaboration and security issues. It marked a continuation of dialogue started in previous summits, indicating a desire for reconciliation on the Korean peninsula.

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Exploration & Discovery

Jason Lewis Completes Human-Powered Circumnavigation

October 6th, 2007 17 years ago

Jason Lewis successfully completed the first human-powered circumnavigation of the Earth on his custom-built vehicle. Over a journey spanning 13 years, he utilized various human-powered modes of transport, including a bicycle and a kayak, covering approximately 46,000 miles. This monumental feat began in 1994 and ended with his return to Greenwich, England in 2007. The accomplishment showcased the potential of human-powered transport while inspiring many to explore sustainable travel options.

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Economics & Industry

Dow Jones Hits Record High Before Collapse

October 9th, 2007 17 years ago

The Dow Jones Industrial Average skyrocketed to an unprecedented 14,164 points, illustrating a peak in the stock market that reflected investor optimism. However, this peak proved short-lived as financial instability brewed beneath the surface, leading to significant market corrections. Triggered by the collapse of the housing bubble and failures in mortgage-backed securities, the situation quickly escalated into a full-blown financial crisis that would impact economies worldwide.

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Space Exploration

First Malaysian in Space: Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor

October 10th, 2007 17 years ago

Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor flew to space aboard Soyuz TMA-11, becoming the first astronaut from Malaysia. He launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, marking a significant achievement for the nation. Shukor's mission was part of a project to send Malaysian scientists into space, emphasizing the country's commitment to scientific advancement. His journey inspired many Malaysians and showcased the potential of collaborations in aerospace exploration.

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