What Happened This Year 2009

Historical Events from This Year 2009

Crime & Law

Binghamton Immigration Center Shooting

April 3rd, 2009 15 years ago

Jiverly Antares Wong entered the American Civic Association in Binghamton, New York, armed with a gun and opened fire on a group of unsuspecting individuals. The attack resulted in the deaths of thirteen people and left four others wounded before Wong took his own life. His motivations appeared to be rooted in personal frustrations, and he notably targeted a location connected to immigration services.

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Politics & Government

France Rejoins NATO Military Command Structure

April 4th, 2009 15 years ago

France announced its full reintegration into NATO's military command structure, concluding a period of distancing initiated by Charles de Gaulle in 1966. President Nicolas Sarkozy made the announcement during a NATO summit in Strasbourg, France. The decision symbolized a shift in French defense policy, emphasizing closer cooperation with allies while maintaining France's independent defense capabilities. This move marked a significant evolution in France's role within NATO, aiming to revitalize transatlantic relations.

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Military & Warfare

North Korea Launches Kwangmyŏngsŏng-2 Satellite

April 5th, 2009 15 years ago

North Korea successfully launched its Kwangmyŏngsŏng-2 satellite, which passed over mainland Japan. The launch prompted swift condemnation from the United Nations Security Council and participating states of the Six-party talks. This controversial act was seen as a test of long-range missile technology which raised concerns regarding North Korea's intentions and regional security.

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Natural Disasters

Devastating 6.3 Magnitude Earthquake in Italy

April 6th, 2009 15 years ago

A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck near L'Aquila, Italy, resulting in the loss of 307 lives. The quake occurred in the early hours, causing widespread destruction across the region. Thousands were left homeless as buildings collapsed, prompting a significant emergency response from local and international agencies. Residents faced immediate hardships as they sought safety and shelter amidst the chaos.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Mass Protests Erupt Over Alleged Election Fraud

April 7th, 2009 15 years ago

Mass protests erupted across Moldova as citizens expressed their discontent over the results of the parliamentary election, claiming they were fraudulent. Major cities, including the capital Chisinau, saw thousands of demonstrators take to the streets. Frustration grew as accusations of manipulation and unfair practices surfaced, leading protesters to demand a re-evaluation of the election results and call for accountability from the government. Social media played a crucial role in organizing and mobilizing the demonstrations, amplifying voices against perceived governmental injustices. The protests emphasized the citizens' desire for democratic integrity and reform.

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Politics & Government

Alberto Fujimori Receives 25-Year Sentence

April 7th, 2009 15 years ago

Alberto Fujimori, former president of Peru, was sentenced to 25 years in prison after being found guilty of human rights violations, including ordering killings and kidnappings by security forces. The court's ruling highlighted the dark period of violence and political repression during Fujimori's presidency, particularly against the Shining Path insurgency and other dissenters. This case marked a significant moment in Peru's pursuit of justice for wartime abuses.

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Politics & Government

Massive Protests Against Saakashvili's Government

April 9th, 2009 15 years ago

In Tbilisi, Georgia, a large demonstration drew up to 60,000 people protesting against the government led by President Mikheil Saakashvili. The protesters expressed dissatisfaction with various issues, including economic conditions and political freedoms. Organized by opposition leaders, the movement aimed to pressure the government for reforms and accountability. The protests featured citizens from all walks of life, highlighting a significant moment in Georgia's political landscape.

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Politics & Government

Josefa Iloilo Assumes Governance of Fiji

April 10th, 2009 15 years ago

Ratu Josefa Iloilo, the President of Fiji, announced the abrogation of the constitution and assumed all governance control in the country. This move created a significant constitutional crisis, as the legality of his actions was widely questioned. Iloilo's decision stemmed from ongoing political instability and a series of military-led coups that had previously altered the country's political landscape. The announcement significantly affected Fiji's relationship with democratic nations and drew international condemnation.

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Economics & Industry

Zimbabwe Ditches the Zimbabwean Dollar Currency

April 12th, 2009 15 years ago

Zimbabwe abandoned its local currency, the Zimbabwean dollar, due to hyperinflation that rendered it virtually worthless. The government announced in 2009 that henceforth, the country would use foreign currencies, particularly the U.S. dollar and South African rand, as legal tender. This decision marked a significant shift in Zimbabwe’s monetary policy and aimed to stabilize the economy, which had been devastated by inflation rates reaching an estimated 231 million percent.

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