What Happened This Year 2013

Historical Events from This Year 2013

Accidents & Tragedies

De Havilland Otter Air Taxi Crash in Alaska

July 7th, 2013 11 years ago

A De Havilland Otter air taxi crashed near Soldotna, Alaska, killing ten passengers aboard. The aircraft, operated by a local air taxi service, was returning from a fishing trip when it encountered difficulties during takeoff. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the plane struggle shortly after leaving the water. Rescue efforts were immediately initiated, but all ten individuals on board were confirmed deceased following the accident. This incident raised safety concerns regarding air travel in the region and reminded many of the challenges in navigating the Alaskan wilderness.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Fatal derailment of French passenger train

July 12th, 2013 11 years ago

A French passenger train derailed in Brétigny-sur-Orge, leading to six fatalities and over 200 injuries. The incident occurred when the train traveling from Paris to Limoges derailed upon entering the station, resulting in several carriages overturning. Emergency services responded promptly, working to assist the injured and investigate the causes of the derailment. Initial reports indicated possible track problems, raising concerns about rail safety and maintenance protocols in France.

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Natural Disasters

Devastating Typhoon Soulik Strikes East China

July 13th, 2013 11 years ago

Typhoon Soulik formed and rapidly intensified into a powerful storm that caused significant destruction in East China and Taiwan. With wind speeds reaching 120 km/h, the typhoon made landfall, resulting in at least nine fatalities and affecting over 160 million people in the region. Infrastructure was heavily damaged, leading to widespread power outages and disruption of services. Emergency responders mobilized to assist those in need as the full extent of the storm's impact unfolded.

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Arts & Culture

Unveiling of Rachel Carson Statue in Woods Hole

July 14th, 2013 11 years ago

The statue of Rachel Carson was dedicated in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, honoring the influential environmentalist. The event celebrated Carson's legacy as a pioneer in environmental conservation and her impact on the modern environmental movement. The statue, created by sculptor Marguerite Kelly, depicts Carson at a critical moment of her life, symbolizing her dedication to nature and wildlife protection. A gathering of community members, environmental advocates, and local officials marked the occasion with speeches highlighting Carson's contributions and the ongoing environmental challenges faced today.

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Military & Warfare

Resumption of Battle in Ras al-Ayn

July 16th, 2013 11 years ago

The Battle of Ras al-Ayn saw renewed clashes between the People's Protection Units (YPG) and Islamist factions in July 2013. Located in northeastern Syria, Ras al-Ayn became a central front in the escalating Rojava–Islamist conflict. The YPG, which sought autonomy for the Kurdish population, aimed to expand its territorial control against various Islamist groups pursuing their own agendas. This battle underscored the deepening struggles within Syria amid the broader civil war, marked by ethnic and ideological divisions.

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Health & Medicine

School Lunch Tragedy in Eastern India

July 16th, 2013 11 years ago

A significant incident occurred at a school in eastern India causing the deaths of 27 children and hospitalization of 25 others after consuming contaminated mid-day meals. The children consumed the food prepared at the school, which was later found to possibly contain toxic substances, leading to this alarming tragedy. The event sparked nationwide outrage and raised questions about food safety standards in school meal programs.

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Politics & Government

Detroit Files for Largest Municipal Bankruptcy

July 18th, 2013 11 years ago

The City of Detroit filed for bankruptcy due to severe financial instability, burdened by approximately $20 billion in debt. The decision was made to address the overwhelming economic challenges facing the city, which included declining populations, poor governance, and shrinking tax revenues. This move was unprecedented in its scale and marked a significant moment in municipal finance. Emergency Manager Kevyn Orr was appointed to oversee the city's finances and initiate restructuring. The bankruptcy raised questions about the future of city services and pensions for city employees.

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Military & Warfare

YPG Expels Islamist Forces from Ras al-Ayn

July 20th, 2013 11 years ago

The Battle of Ras al-Ayn concluded with the People's Protection Units (YPG) successfully expelling Islamist forces from the city in July 2013. The assault marked a significant shift in control over the northeastern city along the Syrian-Turkish border. This victory for the YPG solidified their influence in the region, showcasing their military capabilities and resilience against extremist groups. The battle drew international attention to the complexities of the Syrian civil war, highlighting the differing factions at play.

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Military & Warfare

FARC Attack Claims Lives of 17 Soldiers

July 20th, 2013 11 years ago

In a significant clash, seventeen government soldiers were killed by FARC revolutionaries in the Arauca department of Colombia. This violent incident was part of the ongoing conflict that has plagued Colombia for decades, where FARC engaged in combat against government forces for ideological and territorial control. The attack underscored the strength and operational capability of the FARC, particularly in remote regions like Arauca, where they have historically maintained influence and support.

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