What Happened This Year 2015

Historical Events from This Year 2015 (View all 116)

Politics & Government

Eurasian Economic Union Established

January 1st, 2015 10 years ago

A political and economic union formed by five countries: Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. This union was designed to foster economic cooperation, increase trade, and enhance political ties among member states, paving the way for free movement of goods, services, and labor. The agreement aimed to create a common economic space and improve economic stability in the region while responding to global economic challenges.

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Military & Warfare

Boko Haram's Devastation of Baga

January 3rd, 2015 10 years ago

Boko Haram militants launched a violent assault on the town of Baga in north-eastern Nigeria, resulting in widespread destruction and a significant loss of life. The attack, which began on January 3, led to the deaths of potentially up to 2,000 individuals, marking it as one of the deadliest incidents associated with the insurgency. The militants targeted both the local population and military installations, causing panic and mass displacement as residents fled in search of safety amid the gunfire and flames that ravaged the town.

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Military & Warfare

Car Bombing at Police College in Sana'a

January 7th, 2015 10 years ago

A car bomb exploded outside a police college in Sana'a, resulting in the deaths of at least 38 people and injuries to over 63 others. The attack targeted a key security institution during a time of heightened tensions in Yemen. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with debris scattered and emergency services rushing to assist the victims. The bombing was attributed to ongoing conflict and instability in the region, reflecting the dangerous environment faced by security forces in Yemen.

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Crime & Law

Gunmen Attack Charlie Hebdo Offices in Paris

January 7th, 2015 10 years ago

On January 7, 2015, two gunmen stormed the offices of the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris, leading to the execution of twelve individuals and wounding eleven others, including police officers. The attack was linked to the magazine's controversial depictions of the Prophet Muhammad, igniting debates around freedom of speech, censorship, and religious extremism. The assailants, who were later identified as Cherif Kouachi and Said Kouachi, escaped the scene, prompting a massive manhunt across the country.

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Crime & Law

Charlie Hebdo Attack Perpetrators Killed in Siege

January 9th, 2015 10 years ago

Following the Charlie Hebdo shooting, two assailants, Cherif Kouachi and Said Kouachi, were killed during a hostage situation at a printing company in Dammartin-en-Goële. Meanwhile, another hostage crisis unfolded at a kosher supermarket in Vincennes, where Amedy Coulibaly, affiliated with the attackers, held several hostages. The police responded to both incidents, ultimately resulting in fatalities and the freeing of hostages.

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Health & Medicine

Contaminated Beer Causes Mass Poisoning in Mozambique

January 9th, 2015 10 years ago

At a funeral in Mozambique, beer contaminated with Burkholderia gladioli led to a mass poisoning incident that left 75 people dead and over 230 individuals ill. The event occurred during a traditional funeral gathering, where attendees consumed the tainted beverage. Initial investigations pointed to the use of local ingredients for brewing, which had been compromised. This tragic incident cast a spotlight on food safety and public health practices in Mozambique.

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Born in 2015

Princess Charlotte of Wales

British royal and third in line to the throne
Born
May 2nd, 2015 9 years ago

Born as the daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, significant events marked early life, including public appearances at royal engagements and various charity events. Charlotte attended school in London and participated in traditional royal family activities. As a member of the British royal family, Charlotte holds the title of Princess and is recognized for her role in modern royal functions and ceremonies.

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People Who Died in 2015 (View all 1081)

Omar Karami

Lebanese politician, 58th Prime Minister
Born
September 7th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent Lebanese lawyer and politician, served as the 58th Prime Minister of Lebanon. Initially held the office from 2004 to 2005, and returned to power in 2011. Actively participated in Lebanese politics during a tumultuous period marked by political assassinations and civil unrest. Efforts were focused on rebuilding the political landscape of Lebanon, addressing issues of governance and national unity. Resigned in 2015 amidst challenges faced by the government and societal demands for reform. Contributed to discussions around Lebanon’s political framework and the role of leadership in navigating the country’s complex dynamics.

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Ulrich Beck

German sociologist and risk society theorist
Born
May 15th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent sociologist, contributed significantly to social theory with the concept of 'risk society.' Focused on the implications of modernity and globalization, examining how societal risks shape human behavior and institutional responses. Authored influential works, including 'Risk Society: Towards a New Modernity' and 'The Reinvention of Politics.' Explored themes of individualization, ecological crisis, and the transformation of social structures. Established a framework for understanding the relationship between risks and societal changes.

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William Lloyd Standish

United States District Judge
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old

Appointed as a United States District Judge, served on the bench for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Provided significant rulings on various federal cases during tenure. Held a distinguished career in the judiciary, contributing to the legal system and its development in the region. Worked prior as a law clerk and engaged in private legal practice before judicial appointment.

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Boris Morukov

Russian physician and astronaut
Born
October 1st, 1950 74 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 64 years old

Graduated from the First Moscow Medical Institute and specialized in aviation and space medicine. Participated in the Salyut 7 space station mission as a flight engineer in 1980. Conducted various medical experiments in microgravity to study the effects of long-term space travel on human physiology. Contributed to advancements in space medicine and astronaut training programs.

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Donna Douglas

Actress from The Beverly Hillbillies
Born
September 26th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 82 years old

An American actress gained prominence through a prominent television role in the series 'The Beverly Hillbillies,' where portrayed the character Elly May Clampett. The series aired from 1962 to 1971 and centered around a family of rural hillybillys who became wealthy after discovering oil. The role showcased her comedic talents and appealed to a wide audience, establishing her as a leading actress in the show. After the series concluded, continued to appear in television and film, including guest roles on shows such as 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Ed Sullivan Show.' Douglas also worked as a motivational speaker and authored several books, including one about her experiences in Hollywood. Throughout her career, maintained a presence in entertainment until her passing.

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Mario Cuomo

American politician and governor
Born
June 15th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the 52nd Governor of New York from 1983 to 1994. Before taking office, practiced law and held the position of Secretary of State of New York. Renowned for eloquent speeches, particularly at the Democratic National Convention in 1984. Played a crucial role in advancing progressive policies in New York during tenure as governor. Contributed significantly to the state budget reform and education policy.

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