What Happened This Year 2021
Historical Events from This Year 2021
Mass Demonstration in Kherrata, Algeria
In Kherrata, Bejaia Province, approximately five thousand people gathered to commemorate the second anniversary of the Hirak protest movement, which sought political reform in Algeria. This gathering marked a significant return to public demonstrations after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing the citizens' commitment to their demands for change. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency and resilience among the participants, who expressed their desire for continued progress and reform in the face of ongoing political challenges.
Continue ReadingPerseverance Rover Successfully Lands on Mars
NASA's Perseverance rover successfully landed in Jezero Crater, Mars, tasked with searching for signs of ancient life and collecting samples for future return to Earth. The landing occurred after a critical entry, descent, and landing process, known as the 'seven minutes of terror', which had engineers holding their breath. Perseverance's suite of scientific instruments is designed to analyze the Martian surface and climate, while its companion helicopter, Ingenuity, will test powered flight in another world. This mission represents a new era of exploration that seeks to understand Mars's past habitability.
Continue ReadingMya Thwe Thwe Khine: First Casualty of Protests
Mya Thwe Thwe Khine, a 19-year-old from Myanmar, was critically injured during anti-coup protests following the military coup that took place earlier in February 2021. She was shot by police while participating in a march against the junta in Naypyidaw, leading to widespread outrage and protests across the country. Her death sparked increased demonstrations, marking a significant escalation in resistance against the military government.
Continue ReadingDeadly Prison Riots Erupt Across Ecuador
Four simultaneous prison riots in Ecuador resulted in at least 62 deaths, highlighting the severe issues of overcrowding and gang violence within the country's correctional facilities. The riots took place in various prisons, with reports indicating that violent confrontations among rival gangs led to the high casualty rate. Authorities battled to regain control amidst chaotic conditions, emphasizing the urgent need for prison reform to address these underlying issues.
Continue ReadingKidnapping of 279 Female Students in Zamfara
Gunmen attacked a school in Zamfara State, Nigeria, abducting 279 female students aged between 10 and 17. The raid occurred during nighttime, and the bandits entered the Government Girls Secondary School in Jangebe, a town in Zamfara. The assailants took advantage of the poor security situation in the region, leading to increased concerns about the safety of schools in Nigeria, particularly for female students. This incident marked another significant event in the ongoing challenge of tackling banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria.
Continue ReadingSuicide Car Bombing in Mogadishu Claims Lives
A devastating suicide car bombing in Mogadishu, Somalia, resulted in the deaths of twenty individuals and left thirty others injured. The attack took place in a busy area, suggesting that the target was likely civilians. The Islamic extremist group al-Shabab has been responsible for numerous attacks in Somalia, attempting to undermine the central government. The bombing highlighted the ongoing security challenges faced by the Somali government and international forces in the region.
Continue ReadingPope Francis' Historic Visit to Iraq
Pope Francis began a significant visit to Iraq, marking a milestone in interfaith dialogue and outreach to the country’s Christian minority. During this trip, he aimed to promote peace and unity, visiting sites that bear witness to the historical suffering of Iraqi Christians, exacerbated by conflict and the COVID-19 pandemic. The visit served to strengthen ties between Catholicism and Islam, particularly through a meeting with Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, a prominent Shiite cleric. This trip came at a pivotal time when Iraq was faced with numerous challenges, including rebuilding efforts from decades of conflict, making the Pope's visit especially poignant.
Continue ReadingDeadly Explosions Rock Bata, Equatorial Guinea
A massive explosion occurred in the city of Bata, Equatorial Guinea, resulting in at least 108 fatalities and over 600 injuries. The blasts originated from the military barracks and were reportedly caused by the improper storage of explosives. Evacuations were initiated in the affected neighborhoods, and survivors described scenes of devastation, with homes destroyed and many people trapped under rubble. Rescuers rushed to aid the injured amid chaotic conditions.
Continue ReadingViolent Clashes During Women's Day Marches
International Women's Day saw violent clashes in Mexico City, resulting in injuries to 62 police officers and 19 civilians. The protests aimed to demand justice for women, gender equality, and an end to violence against women in Mexico. Activists gathered at major landmarks, showcasing their grievances against systemic issues while clashing with law enforcement. The situation escalated into chaos, reflecting deep societal tensions surrounding women's rights and safety in the country.
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