What Happened This Year 2018

Historical Events from This Year 2018

Politics & Government

Lula da Silva Arrested for Corruption Charges

April 7th, 2018 6 years ago

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, former president of Brazil, was arrested for corruption under the direction of Judge Sérgio Moro as part of the 'Car-Wash Operation'. Following an extensive investigation that unveiled widespread corruption in Brazil, Lula was sentenced to prison. He spent a total of 580 days incarcerated until the Brazilian Supreme Court decided to release him, citing concerns over the legality of his imprisonment. This case highlighted significant issues related to corruption and political accountability in Brazil.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Algerian Air Force Il-76 Crash Kills 257

April 11th, 2018 6 years ago

An Algerian Air Force Ilyushin Il-76 crashed near Boufarik, resulting in the deaths of 257 people on board. The aircraft was carrying soldiers and military equipment when it went down shortly after takeoff. The cause of the crash was under investigation, with early reports suggesting issues related to the aircraft's mechanical systems. Rescue operations commenced immediately, but recovery efforts faced challenges due to the remote crash site.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Pulitzer Prize Awarded for Weinstein Scandal Reporting

April 16th, 2018 6 years ago

The New York Times and The New Yorker were awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service in recognition of their investigative journalism that uncovered the sexual abuse allegations against Harvey Weinstein. This prominent award highlights the role of the press in exposing systemic issues within powerful institutions and gave a platform to numerous survivors of abuse. The investigation ignited conversations around sexual harassment across various industries and established a pivotal moment in the #MeToo movement.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Start of Anti-Government Protests in Nicaragua

April 18th, 2018 6 years ago

Beginning in mid-April, widespread protests erupted in Nicaragua against President Daniel Ortega's administration, primarily sparked by proposed social security reforms that were seen as detrimental to the population. The protests initially centered on issues related to pension cuts and increased taxes but quickly escalated into broader anti-government sentiments. Citizens from various sectors, including students and workers, joined forces to demand Ortega's resignation. Major cities like Managua witnessed significant mobilizations, resulting in clashes between protesters and police, drawing international attention to the crisis.

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Politics & Government

Swaziland Becomes Eswatini

April 18th, 2018 6 years ago

King Mswati III of Swaziland announced the country's name change to Eswatini during celebrations for his 50th birthday and the 50th anniversary of independence from British rule. This proclamation highlighted the significance of this rebranding as a reflection of the nation's heritage and identity. The announcement was made at the King's birthday celebrations attended by dignitaries, emphasizing the value placed on the memory of independence and the importance of reclaiming the nation's original name.

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Crime & Law

Vehicle Ramming Attack in Toronto

April 23rd, 2018 6 years ago

Alek Minassian drove a rental van into pedestrians along Yonge Street in Toronto, resulting in 11 fatalities and 15 injuries. This incident occurred in a busy area during the lunch hour, prompting immediate emergency responses and drawing significant media attention.

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Politics & Government

North and South Korea Declare Peace Intentions

April 27th, 2018 6 years ago

On a significant day, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in met at the Korean Demilitarized Zone, marking a historic moment of dialogue between the two nations. The leaders signed the Panmunjom Declaration, which emphasized their commitment to formally end the Korean War and pursue peaceful relations. This declaration also included pledges to work towards denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. The leaders' handshake and shared commitment symbolized a hopeful step towards peace after decades of hostility.

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Military & Warfare

SDF Launches Operations Against ISIL in Deir ez-Zor

May 1st, 2018 6 years ago

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) resumed their campaign in Deir ez-Zor to eliminate the remaining presence of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) near the Iraq-Syria border, aiming to solidify control in a strategically vital area. This operation involved coordinated efforts to target ISIL hideouts and disrupt their activities, marking a significant move in the fight against terrorism in the region. The SDF, backed by coalition airstrikes, focused its efforts on reclaiming territory and securing the border against any potential resurgence of ISIL.

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Politics & Government

Barisan Nasional's Unexpected Election Loss

May 9th, 2018 6 years ago

In a significant political shift, the Barisan Nasional coalition, which had been the ruling government of Malaysia since the nation’s independence in 1957, faced a surprising defeat in the Malaysian general election. The victory was claimed by the Pakatan Harapan coalition, led by Mahathir Mohamad, who returned to politics after years away. This election marked a transformative moment in Malaysian politics, reflecting widespread public discontent with the longstanding administration. The polls drew international attention as voters turned out in large numbers to cast their ballots, signaling a desire for change.

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