May 09
Today In History

Historical Events in 2005

2005 Astronomers at Palomar Observatory discovered the dwarf planet Eris, contributing to the International Astronomical Union's planet definition.

2005 Edgar Ray Killen was indicted for the 1964 murders of Chaney, Goodman, and Schwerner during the American Civil Rights Movement.

2005 A train collision in Graniteville, South Carolina, released about 60 tons of chlorine gas.

2005 USS San Francisco collides with an undersea mountain south of Guam during a nuclear sub accident.

2005 Mahmoud Abbas's election as President of the Palestinian National Authority in 2005 marked a significant political transition in the Palestinian territories following Yasser Arafat's tenure.

2005 The Comprehensive Peace Agreement signed in 2005 between the Sudan People's Liberation Movement and the Government of Sudan brought an end to the devastating Second Sudanese Civil War.

2005 Delta II roared, carrying Deep Impact to the stars, a celestial dance ignited at Cape Canaveral, Earth's emissary to cosmic mysteries.

2005 ESA's SMART-1 lunar orbiter makes significant discoveries on the Moon's surface, including elements like calcium, aluminum, silicon, and iron.

2005 The world witnesses the grand unveiling of the Airbus A380, the largest commercial jet in history, at a ceremony in Toulouse, France.

2005 Belmopan, Belize, witnessed riots erupting over the government's new tax policies, highlighting the challenges of fiscal reforms.

2005 Tragedy at Mandhradevi Temple: A stampede at Maharashtra's Mandhradevi temple claims the lives of at least 258 people, leaving a community in mourning.

2005 A momentous occasion unfolds as the first direct commercial flights from mainland China, originating in Guangzhou, land in Taiwan, symbolizing improved cross-strait relations.

2005 Canada's introduction of the Civil Marriage Act paves the way for the legalization of same-sex marriage on July 20, 2005.

2005 One hundred five people were killed when Kam Air Flight 904 crashed in the Pamir Mountains in Afghanistan.

2005 The Sri Lankan Civil War claims the life of Sri Lankan Tamil politician A. Chandranehru, who succumbs to injuries sustained in an ambush, marking a tragic day in the conflict.

2005 Beirut witnesses a devastating explosion as the equivalent of around 1,000 kg of TNT is detonated during former Prime Minister Rafic Hariri's motorcade, leading to the loss of 23 lives and numerous injuries, marking a dark day in Lebanese history.

2005 A series of bombings, suspected to be orchestrated by al-Qaeda-linked militants, rock multiple cities in the Philippines, resulting in seven fatalities and 151 injuries, highlighting the ongoing threat of terrorism.

2005 YouTube, the world's largest video-sharing website, is launched by a group of college students, revolutionizing the way we share and consume video content.

2005 The Kyoto Protocol comes into force, a momentous step in global efforts to combat climate change after Russia's ratification.

2005 The National Hockey League's decision to cancel the entire 2004-2005 season reverberates throughout the world of professional ice hockey.

2005 Spain makes history by becoming the first country to vote in a referendum on the ratification of the proposed Constitution of the European Union. The referendum passes amid political debate and low turnout.

2005 Iran's Kerman Province was shaken to its core as the 6.4 magnitude Zarand earthquake struck, causing significant loss of life and widespread destruction.

2005 A suicide bombing at a police recruiting centre in Al Hillah, Iraq kills 127.

2005 A landmark decision reshapes the moral compass of justice as the U.S. Supreme Court rules in Roper v. Simmons that the execution of juvenile offenders is unconstitutional, ushering in a new era of legal and ethical considerations.

2005 The tranquil rural setting of Rochfort Bridge, Alberta, is shattered as James Roszko commits a heinous act, murdering four Royal Canadian Mounted Police constables during a drug bust before taking his own life, marking a dark day in the annals of Canadian law enforcement.

2005 The boundless skies bear witness to an extraordinary feat as Steve Fossett becomes the first person to embark on a solo, non-stop flight around the world in an airplane, shattering records and inspiring future aviators.

2005 A historic milestone in gender equality is achieved as Margaret Wilson is elected as Speaker of the New Zealand House of Representatives, marking a period when all of New Zealand's highest political offices, including that of Elizabeth II as Head of State, are occupied by women, a momentous occasion in the nation's political history.

2005 Crimea's destiny took a controversial turn as it voted in a highly disputed referendum to secede from Ukraine and become part of Russia, a decision that sparked international tensions.

2005 In Taipei, Taiwan, a massive gathering of 200,000 to 300,000 citizens protests vehemently against China's Anti-Secession Law, emphasizing the island nation's determination to preserve its sovereignty.

2005 Northern Sumatra shook with immense power as a magnitude 8.6 earthquake unleashed its fury, claiming the lives of over 1,000 people and leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

2005 Kurdish leader Jalal Talabani assumes the presidency in Iraq, while Shiite Arab Ibrahim al-Jaafari is named premier, setting the stage for a pivotal chapter in Iraq's post-Saddam era.

2005 A solar eclipse in 2005, visible over parts of the Pacific Ocean and Latin American countries, captivated observers and astronomers alike, showcasing the wonders of the natural world.

2005 The world watches with anticipation as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger is elected to the papacy, assuming the revered title of Pope Benedict XVI, marking a significant moment in the Catholic Church's history.

2005 On this day in 2005, Japan's Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi took a significant step toward reconciliation and healing as he issued a formal apology for Japan's wartime actions, acknowledging the pain and suffering inflicted during a dark chapter in history.

2005 The digital revolution began with the publication of the first-ever YouTube video, titled "Me at the Zoo," in 2005 by co-founder Jawed Karim.

2005 A new chapter begins in the Catholic Church as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger is inaugurated as the 265th Pope, assuming the name Pope Benedict XVI. His papacy carries the hopes and challenges of a global congregation.

2005 The return of the final piece of the Obelisk of Axum to Ethiopia marked the end of a historical episode, as the artifact was stolen by the invading Italian army in 1937 and finally returned to its rightful home.

2005 Tragedy struck as a seven-car commuter train derailed and crashed into an apartment building near Amagasaki Station in Japan, resulting in the loss of 107 lives, including the driver.

2005 Bulgaria and Romania signed the Treaty of Accession 2005, paving the way for their eventual accession to the European Union, a significant step in the continent's political and economic integration.

2005 The Cedar Revolution reached its climax in 2005 as Syria withdrew its 14,000 troops from Lebanon, ending 29 years of military domination (Syrian occupation of Lebanon) and paving the way for Lebanese sovereignty.

2005 The Airbus A380, a marvel of aviation engineering, takes to the skies for its maiden test flight, marking a significant milestone in the world of aviation.

2005 Tbilisi, Georgia, experiences a heart-stopping moment as a hand grenade thrown by Vladimir Arutyunian lands perilously close to U.S. President George W. Bush during a speech, an incident that narrowly averts disaster due to a malfunctioning device.

2005 The Andijan uprising in Uzbekistan turned tragic as troops opened fire on protestors following a prison break, resulting in numerous casualties and a significant event in the nation's history.

2005 Kuwait embraces women's suffrage, a monumental step forward in gender equality, shaping the nation's political landscape for years to come.

2005 The opening of Kingda Ka, the world's tallest roller coaster at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey, thrilled amusement park enthusiasts worldwide.

2005 France's rejection of the European Union Constitution in a national referendum on May 29th, 2005, marked a significant moment in European politics. This outcome had implications for the future direction of European integration and governance.

2005 Vanity Fair's revelation exposed Mark Felt as "Deep Throat," unraveling a Watergate mystery and reshaping American political history.

2005 The Civic Forum of the Romanians of Covasna, Harghita, and Mureș was founded in 2005, promoting civic engagement and unity among these communities in Romania.

2005 Pop singer Michael Jackson is acquitted of charges related to alleged child molestation in a high-profile trial, a moment of relief and controversy in the world of entertainment.

2005 Following a series of Michelin tire failures during the United States Grand Prix weekend at Indianapolis, and without an agreement being reached, 14 cars from seven teams on Michelin tires withdrew after completing the formation lap, leaving only six cars from three teams on Bridgestone tires to race.

2005 Justice was finally served in 2005 as Edgar Ray Killen, previously tried unsuccessfully for the murders of James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Mickey Schwerner, was convicted of manslaughter 41 years after the tragic events. This case had been reopened in 2004, underscoring the importance of pursuing justice.

2005 The Live 8 benefit concerts unfold across the G8 states and South Africa, featuring over 1,000 musicians and broadcast on 182 television networks and 2,000 radio networks, uniting the world in the fight against poverty.

2005 The cosmos witnessed a moment of impact as the Deep Impact collider successfully collided with the comet Tempel 1, unlocking mysteries of the universe.

2005 A series of four explosions rock London's transport system, resulting in the tragic loss of 56 lives and injuring over 700 individuals during the 7/7 bombings.

2005 On July 20, 2005, the Civil Marriage Act marked a historic moment in Canada's history by legalizing same-sex marriage, paving the way for equal rights and recognition.

2005 The heart of London's public transport system is disrupted by four attempted bomb attacks carried out by Islamist extremists, spreading fear and chaos across the city and underscoring the challenges of counterterrorism efforts.

2005 Jean Charles de Menezes is tragically killed by police as the hunt begins for the London Bombers responsible for the July 7, 2005, London bombings and the subsequent July 21, 2005, London bombings.

2005 A serene evening in Naama Bay, Egypt, is shattered as three devastating bombs explode, unleashing tragedy and chaos, with 88 lives lost and countless others forever changed.

2005 The Space Shuttle program embarks on a new era as STS-114 Mission, known as "Return to Flight," launches Discovery, NASA's first scheduled flight mission after the tragic Columbia Disaster in 2003, signifying a renewed commitment to space exploration.

2005 Mumbai, India, witnesses a catastrophic natural event as it receives a staggering 99.5cm (39.17 inches) of rain within 24 hours, resulting in devastating floods that claim the lives of over 5,000 people.

2005 In 2005, NASA faced a critical situation during the STS-114 mission. An incident involving the shedding of foam insulation from the external fuel tank led to the grounding of the Space Shuttle pending an investigation. This decision underscored the importance of safety in space exploration.

2005 The Provisional Irish Republican Army's declaration marked the conclusion of its thirty-year-long armed campaign against British rule in Northern Ireland, paving the way for a new era.

2005 Astronomers unveil a celestial marvel to the world as they announce the discovery of the dwarf planet Eris, unveiling a new chapter in our understanding of the vast cosmos.

2005 Air France Flight 358 encountered a harrowing incident when it landed at Toronto Pearson International Airport, running off the runway and erupting into flames, resulting in 12 injuries but miraculously no fatalities.

2005 President Maaouya Ould Sid'Ahmed Taya of Mauritania faces a dramatic overthrow in a military coup while attending King Fahd's funeral in Saudi Arabia, marking a tumultuous chapter in Mauritanian politics.

2005 The tragic Helios Airways Flight 522 crashes near Grammatiko, Greece, resulting in the loss of 121 passengers and crew in a devastating aviation accident.

2005 The United Nations Food Systems Summit, held in 2021, brought global leaders together to address food system challenges, with discussions focusing on sustainability, nutrition, and equitable access to food resources.

2005 The Helsinki Agreement between the Free Aceh Movement and the Government of Indonesia was signed, ending almost three decades of fighting.

2005 A devastating aviation disaster occurs as West Caribbean Airways Flight 708, a McDonnell Douglas MD-82, crashes in Machiques, Venezuela, resulting in the tragic loss of all 160 souls on board.

2005 The forced evacuation of settlers commenced on August 17, 2005, as part of the Israeli disengagement from Gaza, an intricate and emotional process that had far-reaching implications for the region.

2005 August 17, 2005, witnessed a wave of terror as over 500 bombs were detonated by terrorists across 300 locations in 63 districts of Bangladesh, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos.

2005 The Indonesian island of Java plunges into darkness as a massive power blackout affects nearly 100 million people, making it one of the largest and most widespread power outages in recorded history.

2005 The inaugural joint military exercise between Russia and China, known as Peace Mission 2005, unfolds, signifying a complex geopolitical alliance and military cooperation that would echo through international relations for years to come.

2005 Hurricane Katrina's landfall in Florida marks the beginning of a catastrophic natural disaster, leading to extensive flooding and significant damage in the Gulf Coast region.

2005 Hurricane Katrina devastates much of the U.S. Gulf Coast, causing immense human suffering and economic damage in its wake.

2005 The tragic 2005 Al-Aaimmah bridge stampede in Baghdad claims the lives of 953 individuals, casting a somber shadow over the city and highlighting the need for crowd management measures.

2005 Egypt held its first-ever multi-party presidential election in 2005, marking a significant step toward political reform in the country.

2005 The arrival of Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft from EMERCOM at Little Rock Air Force Base represented a significant mission of disaster aid from Russia to North America.

2005 The Israeli disengagement from Gaza reaches its culmination, as 2,530 homes are demolished, reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the region and leaving lasting impacts on the lives of those affected.

2005 Tragedy strikes the skies as One-Two-GO Airlines Flight 269 crashes in Thailand, resulting in the loss of 90 lives, a somber day in aviation history.

2005 Hurricane Rita devastates parts of southwestern Louisiana and southeastern Texas, leaving a lasting impact on the region.

2005 PBS Kids Channel is shut down, making way for a joint network with Comcast called Sprout.

2005 John Roberts's confirmation as Chief Justice of the United States in 2005 had a profound impact on the country's judicial landscape, influencing legal decisions and shaping American jurisprudence.

2005 Controversial depictions of Muhammad appear in a Danish newspaper, sparking global debate and tensions.

2005 The devastating Kashmir earthquake, measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale, left an indelible mark with 86,000 lives lost.

2005 China's space ambitions soar higher as Shenzhou 6, carrying two cosmonauts, is launched into orbit, marking a significant milestone in the nation's space exploration efforts.

2005 Saddam Hussein's trial for crimes against humanity begins in Baghdad, marking a significant moment in Iraq's post-war transition.

2005 Hurricane Wilma's intensification to the most intense Atlantic hurricane on record, with a minimum pressure of 882 mb, underscores the power of nature's fury.

2005 The mysterious dwarf planet Eris takes center stage as images of this distant celestial body are captured and subsequently used to document its groundbreaking discovery.

2005 The 2005 Atlantic hurricane season witnesses the formation of Tropical Storm Alpha, setting a record as the most active hurricane season until surpassed in 2020.

2005 Tragedy strikes Nigeria as Bellview Airlines Flight 210 crashes, claiming the lives of all 117 people on board, leaving a nation in mourning.

2005 Hurricane Wilma's devastating landfall in Florida resulted in numerous casualties and extensive damage, leaving a lasting impact on the region.

2005 A series of bombings in Delhi, India, results in the tragic loss of over 60 lives. These coordinated attacks serve as a stark reminder of the persistent threat of terrorism and the importance of counterterrorism efforts and security measures in densely populated areas.

2005 A symbol of resilience and reconstruction, the Dresden Frauenkirche is reconsecrated after a thirteen-year rebuilding project, following its destruction during World War II.

2005 The European Space Agency's Venus Express mission was launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on November 9, 2005, with the aim of studying Venus, adding to our understanding of our planetary neighbor.

2005 On November 9, 2005, suicide bombers carried out devastating attacks on three hotels in Amman, Jordan, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 60 lives and causing shockwaves through the region.

2005 After a 31-year wait, Australia achieved a momentous victory in 2005 by defeating Uruguay in a penalty shootout, securing a spot in the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

2005 In a historic moment for German politics, Angela Merkel assumed the role of the first female Chancellor of Germany in 2005. Her election marked a significant step forward in gender equality and leadership, making her a trailblazer in European politics.

2005 Liberia celebrates a historic milestone as Ellen Johnson Sirleaf becomes the nation's first female president, ushering in an era of progress and resilience. Her leadership becomes a beacon of hope for the African continent.

2005 A historic moment unfolds in the Church of England as John Sentamu becomes the first black archbishop, marking a significant milestone in the church's history with his enthronement as the 97th Archbishop of York.

2005 The sky becomes a new postal route as XCOR Aerospace achieves a remarkable milestone by making the first crewed rocket aircraft delivery of U.S. Mail in Kern County, California.

2005 Tens of thousands of people in Hong Kong unite in a historic protest for democracy, calling on the government to embrace universal and equal suffrage, making their voices heard on the global stage.

2005 The Civil Partnership Act takes effect in the UK, granting legal recognition to same-sex partnerships, a landmark step in LGBTQ+ rights.

2005 The Democratic Republic of the Congo is shaken by a devastating earthquake, resulting in significant loss of life and destruction.

2005 Tehran, Iran, witnesses a tragic catastrophe as an Iranian Air Force C-130 military transport aircraft crashes into a ten-floor apartment building, claiming the lives of all 94 on board and 12 more on the ground.

2005 A tense and dramatic incident unfolds at Miami International Airport as U.S. federal air marshals shoot and kill Rigoberto Alpizar, a passenger on American Airlines Flight 924, raising critical questions about air travel security protocols.

2005 Tragedy struck on December 10, 2005, as Sosoliso Airlines Flight 1145 crashed at Port Harcourt International Airport in Nigeria, claiming the lives of 108 people and leaving a nation in mourning.

2005 In 2005, the Buncefield Oil Depot in Hemel Hempstead, England, becomes the scene of a massive fire, prompting a significant emergency response and highlighting the importance of industrial safety.

2005 The year 2005 witnesses the Cronulla riots in Australia, where thousands of demonstrators protest against ethnic violence in Cronulla, New South Wales, leading to retaliatory attacks and heightened tensions in the region.

2005 The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor is introduced into active service within the United States Air Force, representing a technological leap in military aviation.

2005 Hong Kong's Wan Chai district erupted into chaos as Anti-World Trade Organization protesters clashed with authorities, leaving the city shaken.

2005 A historic abdication occurred in Bhutan as Jigme Singye Wangchuck relinquished the throne, marking the end of his reign.

2005 The Chadian Civil War erupts as rebel groups launch a daring offensive in Adré, allegedly with support from neighboring Sudan, igniting a complex and enduring conflict in the heart of Africa.

2005 Tragedy strikes as Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 217 crashes while crossing the Caspian Sea, resulting in the loss of 23 lives and underscoring the challenges of air travel in the region.

2005 Chad experiences a significant event that leaves an indelible mark on its history and politics.

2005 Tropical Storm Zeta made history in 2005 by forming in the open Atlantic Ocean, tying the record for the latest tropical cyclone ever to form in the North Atlantic basin, a testament to the unpredictability of weather systems.

2005 King Gyanendra of Nepal staged a coup in 2005, capturing democracy and becoming Chairman of the Councils of Ministers, dramatically altering Nepal's political landscape.

2005 The skies above Bioko Norte, Equatorial Guinea, witness a catastrophic tragedy as an Antonov An-24 crashes, claiming the lives of 60 individuals—a grim day in aviation history.

2005 Pluto's enigmatic nature deepens as a second photo from the Hubble Space Telescope confirms the presence of two additional moons, Nix and Hydra.

2005 The legal landscape of Oregon experiences a seismic shift as the Oregon Supreme Court nullifies marriage licenses previously issued to same-sex couples by Multnomah County, a decision that reverberates across the nation.

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