What Happened This Year 2009
Historical Events from This Year 2009
Southbound Metro Train Collision at Fort Totten
A Washington D.C. Metro train collided with another train near Fort Totten station, resulting in nine fatalities including eight passengers and the train operator. The collision occurred as the southbound train was traveling when it struck the waiting train. Immediate investigations focused on possible causes such as human error or mechanical failure.
Continue ReadingMilitary Coup Against Manuel Zelaya in Honduras
Manuel Zelaya, the President of Honduras, was ousted in a military coup following a failed attempt to hold a referendum aimed at rewriting the Honduran Constitution. The coup was executed by the military and supported by various sectors of society who opposed Zelaya's growing authoritarianism. This event marked the onset of a profound constitutional crisis that would lead to increased political tension and instability in the region.
Continue ReadingYemenia Flight 626 crashes in Indian Ocean
Yemenia Flight 626, an Airbus A310-300, plunged into the Indian Ocean near the Comoros islands, resulting in the deaths of 152 passengers and crew members. The flight, which originated from Paris and was en route to Moroni, lost contact with air traffic control before the crash. Among the unfortunate souls was a 14-year-old girl named Bahia Bakari, who remarkably survived the devastating accident, clinging to a piece of debris in the water until she was rescued.
Continue ReadingCrown of Statue of Liberty Reopens to Visitors
The crown of the Statue of Liberty reopened for public access after being closed for eight years due to security measures enacted following the September 11 attacks. The reopening allowed visitors to ascend to the crown, where they could enjoy stunning views of New York Harbor and the Manhattan skyline. On Independence Day, many took advantage of the occasion to experience this iconic symbol of freedom, now enhanced by new safety protocols that ensure the security of all guests. The reopening was celebrated as a return to normalcy.
Continue ReadingBombings Begin in Southern Mindanao
A series of bombings commenced on the southern Philippine island group of Mindanao. This was part of an escalating conflict involving various militant groups in the region, impacting local civilians and sparking security concerns nationwide. The bombings prompted heightened military response and raised questions about peace negotiations and regional stability.
Continue ReadingDiscovery of Largest Anglo-Saxon Gold Hoard
Near the village of Hammerwich, Staffordshire, a metal detectorist uncovered the largest hoard of Anglo-Saxon gold ever discovered in Britain, consisting of more than 1,500 items. The find included exquisite jewelry, decorative artifacts, and weapons, dating from the 6th to 8th centuries. The discovery was made by Terry Herbert, who reported the findings to local authorities, leading to an excavation that uncovered treasures of significant historical value and insight into early medieval British culture.
Continue ReadingRiots Erupt in Ürümqi Amid Ethnic Tensions
In Ürümqi, violent riots broke out featuring significant unrest between ethnic Han Chinese and Uyghurs. Sparked by misinformation about a violent incident in Guangdong involving Uyghur workers, the demonstrations turned violent as protesters clashed with police. The unrest escalated rapidly, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life. The situation drew national attention as calls for enhanced security and government intervention increased amid grievances over ethnic and cultural discrimination.
Continue ReadingEndeavour Launches to Complete Kibō Module
The Space Shuttle Endeavour was launched on mission STS-127, aiming to enhance the International Space Station (ISS) with the completion of the Japanese Kibō module. This mission represented another crucial step in the assembly of the ISS, allowing for further scientific research in low Earth orbit. The Endeavour launched successfully from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, carrying a seven-member crew including mission commander Mark Polansky and pilot Doug Hurley. This mission played a vital role in expanding the capabilities of the ISS.
Continue ReadingCaspian Airlines Flight 7908 Crash in Iran
Caspian Airlines Flight 7908, a domestic flight, crashed near Jannatabad in Qazvin, Iran, resulting in the tragic loss of all 168 passengers and crew aboard. The flight took off from Tehran and was headed to the city of Yerevan in Armenia. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft encountered technical difficulties, leading to its descent in a rural area. This incident marked one of the deadliest aviation disasters in Iran's history, highlighting ongoing safety concerns within the country's aviation sector.
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