Major Events of 2005: Key Historical Moments You Need to Know

Every year brings its own set of pivotal moments that leave a lasting mark on history. From political shifts and technological advancements to cultural breakthroughs, these events shape the world and influence the future. In this comprehensive overview, we’ll explore the most significant occurrences from 2005, highlighting key moments that continue to impact our lives today.

Major Events of 2005 - Historical Moments That Defined the Year | TakeMeBack.to

01 Jan Global Remembrance of Tsunami Victims: Countries worldwide observed a moment of silence, lit candles, and displayed white roses to commemorate the victims of the devastating 26 December 2004 tsunamis, which left approximately 5 million people homeless and killed over 150,000 individuals.
02 Jan USS Abraham Lincoln Distributes Tsunami Aid: The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier began distributing humanitarian aid on Sumatra island in Indonesia, supporting relief efforts following the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami.
03 Jan Presidential Tsunami Relief Appeal: Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton made a joint humanitarian appeal to support tsunami victims. President Bush also ordered the U.S. flag to be flown at half-staff from January 3-7 to honor the victims of the devastating December 2004 tsunami.
04 Jan Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Escalation: A tragic incident occurred in the northern Gaza Strip where an Israeli tank fired on agricultural land, resulting in seven Palestinian civilian deaths, including an 11-year-old boy. Palestinian presidential candidate Mahmoud Abbas strongly condemned the attack, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region.
05 Jan Mahmoud Abbas Elected Palestinian President: Mahmoud Abbas was elected as the President of the Palestinian Authority, succeeding the late Yasser Arafat, marking a significant transition in Palestinian political leadership.
06 Jan Global Response to 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami: World leaders gathered in Jakarta, Indonesia, for an emergency summit following the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. Nearly USD 4 billion in aid was pledged, with approximately 150,000 confirmed deaths across Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
07 Jan Japan's Tsunami Relief and G7 Debt Moratorium: Japan deployed its largest military force since World War II to assist tsunami-stricken countries, with approximately 1,000 soldiers on standby. Simultaneously, the G7 industrialized nations agreed to a moratorium on debt repayments for countries most affected by the tsunamis.
08 Jan 9/11 Photographs Restoration Project: Approximately 8,000 photographs taken from the World Trade Center ruins after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks were restored. These images will be posted on a restricted website by the Port Authority of New York/New Jersey, allowing people to claim and identify them.
09 Jan Sudan Peace Agreement Ends Decades-Long Civil War: A historic peace agreement is signed between the northern and southern regions of Sudan, effectively ending approximately 50 years of devastating civil conflict that resulted in around 2 million casualties. The Comprehensive Peace Agreement, negotiated in Naivasha, Kenya, marks a significant milestone in Sudan's troubled political history.
10 Jan Mahmoud Abbas Wins Palestinian Presidential Election: Mahmoud Abbas was officially declared the winner of the Palestinian presidential elections, securing 62.3% of the votes cast. This marked a significant moment in Palestinian political transition.
11 Jan Apple Introduces iPod Shuffle: Apple Computer releases the iPod shuffle, a compact and lightweight music player featuring 512 MB RAM, USB 2.0 connectivity, weighing under one ounce, with approximately 12 hours of battery life. Priced at US$99, this device represents a significant milestone in portable digital music technology.
12 Jan Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Escalation: Israel conducted military raids in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, resulting in casualties: two armed men killed, two wounded in Ramallah, four men arrested in Gaza City, and three Israeli soldiers wounded in an Islamic Jihad attack.
13 Jan Hamas and Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades Attack Near Israel-Gaza Border: Armed militants from Hamas and Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades entered Israel from Gaza and opened fire near the border, resulting in six fatalities and five injuries.
14 Jan Huygens Probe Lands on Titan: The European Space Agency's Huygens probe successfully landed on Titan, Saturn's largest moon, marking a historic milestone in space exploration. This groundbreaking mission provided unprecedented insights into the moon's surface and atmosphere.
15 Jan Mahmoud Abbas Becomes Palestinian President: Mahmoud Abbas was sworn in as President of the Palestinian Authority, six days after winning the presidential election. However, the election was marred by allegations of irregularities, with numerous election officials resigning.
16 Jan Diplomatic Mediation Attempt: Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak attempted to mediate between Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and new Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, urging the resumption of diplomatic contact after Sharon had cut communication, allegedly due to suspicions of Palestinian officials' involvement in militant attacks.
17 Jan US Administration's Potential Iran Actions: Investigative journalist Seymour Hersh reported in The New Yorker that unnamed military and intelligence sources suggested the United States was preparing to take aggressive actions against Iran, including potential covert operations. The Pentagon strongly denied the report, calling it fundamentally erroneous.
18 Jan Airbus A380 Unveiling: Airbus officially launches the A380, the world's largest commercial passenger jet, at its main plant in Toulouse, France. This groundbreaking double-decker aircraft can accommodate between 550 to 840 passengers, representing a significant milestone in aviation technology and design.
19 Jan 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami Devastation: The catastrophic 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami resulted in a massive loss of life, with Indonesian officials confirming 166,000 deaths in Indonesia alone, bringing the total confirmed fatalities to 226,000 across Asia.
20 Jan Mars Rover Discovers Meteorite: NASA's Opportunity rover made a groundbreaking discovery by identifying the first meteorite on another planet using its spectrometers, marking a significant milestone in planetary exploration.
21 Jan Car Bombing in Baghdad Mosque Kills 14: A devastating car bomb attack on a Shi'a mosque in Baghdad resulted in at least 14 fatalities, highlighting ongoing sectarian violence in Iraq.
22 Jan Evo Morales Becomes Bolivia's First Indigenous President: Evo Morales, a member of the Aymara indigenous group, is sworn in as president of Bolivia, marking a historic moment as the first Indigenous person to hold the country's highest office.
23 Jan Johnny Carson, Legendary TV Host, Dies: Johnny Carson, iconic host of *The Tonight Show* who revolutionized late-night television, died at age 79. He was widely regarded as the 'King of Late Night' and set the standard for television talk shows.
24 Jan JP Morgan Chase Apologizes for Slave Collateral Practice: JP Morgan Chase Bank issued a formal apology to its predecessor banks (Canal Bank, Citizens' Bank) for the historical practice of accepting slaves as collateral, acknowledging the institution's past involvement in the unethical system of slavery.
25 Jan 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami Death Toll Revised: Indonesia dramatically increased its estimation of the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami casualties, with the total number of victims in the region now estimated at 280,000, highlighting the unprecedented scale of this natural disaster.
26 Jan Condoleezza Rice Becomes First African American Woman Secretary of State: Condoleezza Rice was sworn in as U.S. Secretary of State after being confirmed by the United States Senate with an 85-13 vote, marking a historic milestone as the first African American woman to hold this prestigious diplomatic position.
27 Jan 60th Anniversary of Auschwitz Liberation Commemoration: Holocaust survivors, former Red Army soldiers, and leaders from over 40 nations gathered in Oświęcim, Poland to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Auschwitz's liberation, remembering the over 1 million people who perished during the Holocaust.
28 Jan Guantanamo Bay Detainee Alleges Severe Torture: An Australian Guantanamo Bay detainee made serious allegations of extreme psychological and physical torture, claiming U.S. agents told him they murdered his family, displayed fabricated traumatic photos, sexually assaulted him, and left him in inhumane conditions.
29 Jan Historic Direct Flights Between China and Taiwan: The first direct commercial flights from mainland China to Taiwan since 1949 were established, with flights from Guangzhou arriving in Taipei. Shortly afterward, a reciprocal China Airlines flight landed in Beijing, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough in cross-strait relations.
30 Jan First Free Parliamentary Elections in Iraq: On January 30, 2005, Iraq held its first multi-party parliamentary elections since 1958, marking a significant milestone in the country's democratic transition. The election was conducted under challenging security conditions, with multiple attacks targeting voters and polling stations.
31 Jan American Guards Killed in Iraq Prison Riot: Four American security personnel are killed during a violent riot at Camp Bucca prison in southern Iraq, underscoring the volatile security situation in the region.
01 Feb UN Report on Darfur Atrocities: The United Nations releases a damning report on Sudan's Darfur region, documenting widespread human rights violations including murder, torture, and rape. While the report does not classify these actions as genocide, it calls for war criminals to be brought to justice.
02 Feb Canada Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: The Government of Canada introduces the Civil Marriage Act, a landmark legislation that would officially legalize same-sex marriage on July 20, 2005, marking a significant milestone in LGBTQ+ rights and social equality.
03 Feb Passing of Ernst Mayr, Evolutionary Biologist: Ernst Mayr, a groundbreaking German-born biologist who significantly contributed to evolutionary theory and was a key figure in the modern synthesis of evolutionary biology, died at age 101.
04 Feb New York Court Rules on Same-Sex Marriage: The New York State Supreme Court ruled that the state's ban on same-sex marriage violates the state constitution, with the decision stayed for 30 days, marking a significant moment in LGBTQ+ rights.
05 Feb Kam Air Flight Tragedy in Afghanistan: A devastating aviation disaster occurred when NATO helicopters discovered the wreckage of a Kam Air Boeing 737 passenger jet in the mountainous region east of Kabul, Afghanistan. All 104 passengers aboard were presumed to have perished in this tragic incident, highlighting the dangerous conditions of air travel in conflict zones.
06 Feb Condoleezza Rice's Diplomatic Mission to Middle East: US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice arrives in Israel to engage in diplomatic discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, seeking to advance peace negotiations.
07 Feb Guatemala Halts War Crimes Trial: The Guatemalan Constitutional Court controversially stopped the trial of 16 military officers accused of war crimes and killing hundreds of civilians, raising questions about judicial accountability and transitional justice.
08 Feb Iraq Conflict: Multiple Attacks: Intense violence erupted in Iraq with coordinated attacks in Baquba and Mosul. A car bomb near an Iraqi police station wounded 15 and killed 15, while a suicide bomber killed twelve police officers and injured four others. Additional mortar attacks resulted in three civilian casualties.
09 Feb Assassination of Rafik Hariri: Rafik Hariri, former Prime Minister of Lebanon, was assassinated in a devastating suicide bombing in Beirut. The attack killed at least 16 people and injured 120 others, marking a significant moment of political violence in Lebanon's history.
10 Feb North Korea's Nuclear Weapons Declaration: North Korea officially admits to developing nuclear weapons and suspends participation in multi-national diplomatic talks about its arms program, escalating international tensions.
11 Feb Mass Iranian Protest Against Potential U.S. Strike: Approximately two million Iranians protested against a potential U.S. military strike aimed at preventing Iran's nuclear weapon development. Top U.S. military officials denied any plans for such an intervention.
12 Feb Togo Political Protests: Thousands of protesters in Lomé, Togo, demonstrated against President Faure Gnassingbé's army-installed rule. The protests turned violent, resulting in three protestors being killed during clashes with police and military forces.
13 Feb 60th Anniversary of Dresden Bombing Commemoration: Germans commemorated the 60th anniversary of the devastating firebombing of Dresden during World War II, remembering one of the most controversial aerial attacks in military history.
14 Feb Assassination of Rafik Hariri: A massive suicide bomb blast in central Beirut killed the former Prime Minister of Lebanon, Rafik Hariri, and at least 15 other people. The explosion, equivalent to around 1,000 kg of TNT, occurred near the St. George Hotel and injured at least 135 people. This tragic event sparked the Cedar Revolution (Intifada of Independence) and significantly impacted Lebanon's political landscape.
15 Feb YouTube Launch: The revolutionary video-sharing platform YouTube was officially launched, marking a significant milestone in internet media and user-generated content. This platform would go on to transform digital communication and entertainment globally.
16 Feb Kyoto Protocol Goes into Effect: The Kyoto Protocol, an international treaty designed to combat global warming, officially comes into force on this date. The protocol is implemented without the support of major countries like the United States and Australia, highlighting the complex international dynamics of climate change mitigation.
17 Feb Israeli Cabinet Approves Gaza Withdrawal: In a significant political decision, the Israeli Cabinet voted 17-5 to approve Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's plan for withdrawing troops and settlers from the Gaza Strip. The cabinet also approved a new route for the barrier in Palestinian-controlled West Bank areas.
18 Feb Deadly Explosions in Baghdad During Ashura: On the Shi'a holy day of Ashura, a series of devastating explosions targeted Shi'a mosques in Baghdad, resulting in at least 27 fatalities and 60 injuries, highlighting the ongoing sectarian tensions in post-invasion Iraq.
19 Feb UN Investigates Rafik Hariri's Murder: UN Secretary General Kofi Annan dispatched an expert team to Lebanon to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.
20 Feb Death of Hunter S. Thompson: Renowned American journalist and author Hunter S. Thompson was found dead at his home in Aspen, Colorado. The circumstances suggested suicide, marking the end of a groundbreaking literary career known for pioneering gonzo journalism.
21 Feb Israel Releases Palestinian Prisoners: Israel released 500 Palestinian prisoners as a goodwill gesture to Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas, with plans to release an additional 400 prisoners in the following three months, signaling potential diplomatic progress.
22 Feb Mars Ice Discovery by European Space Probe: The European space probe Mars Express captured groundbreaking images revealing the presence of sea ice near Mars' equator. This significant discovery substantially increases scientific speculation about the potential for past or present life on the planet.
23 Feb Slovakia Summit 2005: The Slovakia Summit 2005 marked a historic diplomatic event, with U.S. President George W. Bush becoming the first sitting American President to visit Slovakia. The summit featured high-level discussions between Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
24 Feb Bratislava Initiative on Nuclear Non-Proliferation: Presidents Bush and Putin announced the Bratislava Initiative, a strategic effort aimed at reducing the global threat of nuclear proliferation and enhancing international security.
25 Feb BTK Serial Killer Captured: Dennis Rader, the notorious BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) serial killer, was apprehended by Wichita police in Kansas, 31 years after his first murder, bringing a long-awaited end to his reign of terror.
26 Feb Global Climate Action: Kyoto Protocol: Over 190 countries signed the Kyoto Protocol, a landmark international environmental treaty designed to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, representing a significant milestone in international environmental cooperation.
27 Feb Russia to Supply Nuclear Reactor Fuel to Iran: Russia agrees to sell nuclear reactor fuel to Iran, emphasizing strict safeguards to prevent potential weaponization. This complex diplomatic and technological transaction highlights the delicate international nuclear negotiations of the time.
28 Feb Lebanese Government Resigns Following Hariri Assassination: In the wake of massive protests following the assassination of Rafik Hariri, the entire Lebanese government, led by pro-Syrian Prime Minister Omar Karami, resigns. This marked a significant political turning point in Lebanon's struggle for sovereignty and independence from Syrian influence.
01 Mar Supreme Court Bans Juvenile Death Penalty: In a landmark decision in Roper v. Simmons, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that executing individuals who committed crimes before the age of 18 is unconstitutional, marking a significant shift in capital punishment policy.
02 Mar Morocco Declares Independence from France: Morocco proclaims independence from France, with Sultan Muhammad V forming the country's first government, marking a significant moment in the nation's decolonization process.
03 Mar Steve Fossett's Historic Solo World Flight: Millionaire adventurer Steve Fossett completed the first non-stop, non-refueled solo flight around the world in the Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer, covering a remarkable distance of 40,234 kilometers in 67 hours and 2 minutes.
04 Mar UN Warning on HIV in Africa: The United Nations issued a critical warning that approximately 90 million Africans could potentially be infected with HIV without significant intervention and action to combat the disease's spread.
05 Mar Nazi Party Gains Parliamentary Majority: In German parliamentary elections, the Nazi Party won 44 percent of the vote, enabling them to form a majority with Nationalist allies, a pivotal moment in the rise of Nazi power in Germany.
06 Mar Bolivian President Carlos Mesa Resigns: In a significant political development, Bolivian President Carlos Mesa announced his resignation, effective Monday, March 7, 2005. This marked a moment of political instability in Bolivia, potentially triggered by ongoing social and economic tensions.
07 Mar Hans Bethe, Nuclear Physicist, Dies: Nobel Laureate Hans Bethe, a pivotal figure in nuclear physics who contributed to atomic bomb development and was a prominent nuclear testing critic, passed away at 98 years old.
08 Mar Massive Opposition Rally in Beirut: Approximately 800,000 people gathered in Beirut for an opposition rally, marking the largest protest in Lebanon's history, one month after the assassination of Rafik Hariri.
09 Mar Omar Karami Reelected as Lebanese Prime Minister: Omar Karami is reelected to the position of Prime Minister by the Lebanese Parliament, signaling continued political dynamics in Lebanon.
10 Mar Rwanda Begins Gacaca Community Court Hearings for Genocide Cases: Traditional Gacaca community courts in Rwanda commenced hearings for individuals accused of involvement in the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, a crucial step in the country's reconciliation and justice process.
11 Mar Madrid Train Bombings Memorial: Spain held a national day of mourning to commemorate the first anniversary of the Madrid train bombings. King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia inaugurated the Forest of the Departed, a memorial park where each victim has a cypress or olive tree planted.
12 Mar Hu Jintao Becomes Chairman of Central Military Commission: During the 3rd Plenum of the 10th National People's Congress, President Hu Jintao was elected to the position of Chairman of the Central Military Commission, consolidating his political and military leadership in China.
13 Mar Pope John Paul II Discharged from Hospital: Pope John Paul II was discharged from Agostino Gemelli University Polyclinic, returning to Vatican City approximately two and a half weeks after undergoing a tracheotomy. His recovery was closely monitored by global media and followers.
14 Mar Cedar Revolution: Massive Lebanese Protest: Approximately one million people gather in Beirut for a historic opposition rally, marking the largest demonstration in Lebanon's history, occurring one month after the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.
15 Mar New Holocaust Museum Inaugurated at Yad Vashem: A powerful new Holocaust museum is inaugurated at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem, with leaders from 40 countries and UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan in attendance. Israeli President Moshe Katzav emphasizes the museum's critical role in warning humanity about the dangers of hatred, racism, and potential genocide.
16 Mar Israel Transfers Jericho to Palestinian Control: Israel officially handed over Jericho to Palestinian control, a significant diplomatic move that was expected to strengthen Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. This transfer represented a potential step towards resolving territorial disputes and improving Palestinian autonomy.
17 Mar Potential Black Hole Creation at Particle Accelerator: Physicists at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider in Upton, New York, potentially created a microscopic black hole, sparking scientific speculation about quantum physics.
18 Mar Terri Schiavo Feeding Tube Removal: Terri Schiavo's feeding tube was removed at her husband's request, sparking a global ethical debate on euthanasia, patient rights, and end-of-life medical decisions.
19 Mar Pakistan's Shaheen-II Missile Test: Pakistan successfully test-fired the Shaheen-II, a long-range, nuclear-capable ballistic missile with a range of 2,000 kilometers, capable of carrying various warhead types. This test was part of a series of missile development efforts.
20 Mar Bosnian Serb General to Face War Crimes Tribunal: The Serbian government confirmed that Vinko Pandurevic, a Bosnian Serb general, would surrender to the International Criminal Tribunal at The Hague. He faces charges of genocide related to the infamous 1995 Srebrenica massacre, a pivotal moment in the Bosnian War's tragic history.
21 Mar Red Lake School Shooting: On March 21, 2005, a tragic school shooting occurred at Red Lake High School in Minnesota, where 10 people were killed by Jeff Weise, making it the deadliest school shooting since the Columbine High School massacre. The shooter, a 16-year-old student, first killed his grandfather and grandfather's companion before attacking the school and ultimately taking his own life.
22 Mar Marburg Virus Outbreak in Angola: The Marburg virus outbreak in Angola had claimed at least 96 lives, highlighting a significant public health crisis in the region.
23 Mar BP Texas City Refinery Explosion: A catastrophic explosion occurs at BP's Texas City oil refinery, resulting in 15 fatalities and over 170 injuries. This industrial disaster highlights significant safety concerns in the petrochemical industry.
24 Mar Kyrgyzstan Political Upheaval: Protesters in Bishkek successfully overthrow President Askar Akayev, storming the presidential palace. Akayev flees the country, potentially to Russia or Kazakhstan, marking a pivotal moment in Kyrgyzstan's political history.
25 Mar Tulip Revolution in Kyrgyzstan: In a significant political upheaval, Kyrgyzstan's opposition leader Kurmanbek Bakiyev was named interim President, while the incumbent President Askar Akayev remained defiant. The political transition was marked by widespread protests and subsequent looting in Bishkek, the capital city.
26 Mar Taiwanese Protest Against China's Anti-Secession Law: Approximately 200,000 to 300,000 Taiwanese citizens demonstrate in Taipei, expressing strong opposition to the People's Republic of China's Anti-Secession Law, which threatens Taiwan's sovereignty and potential independence.
27 Mar BP Texas City Refinery Explosion: A catastrophic explosion at the BP oil refinery in Texas City, Texas, resulted in the tragic deaths of 14 people, marking one of the worst industrial accidents in recent U.S. history.
28 Mar 2005 Northern Sumatra Earthquake: A devastating magnitude 8.6 earthquake struck Northern Sumatra, Indonesia, causing significant destruction. The earthquake resulted in at least 1,300 fatalities, 350 injuries, and widespread damage to infrastructure. A 3-meter tsunami further compounded the disaster, damaging the port and airport on Simeulue Island.
29 Mar MGM Studios v. Grokster Supreme Court Case: The United States Supreme Court hears the landmark MGM Studios v. Grokster case, a pivotal legal battle concerning peer-to-peer file-sharing and digital copyright issues.
30 Mar Egyptian Protests Against Mubarak's Fifth Term: Despite a protest ban, thousands of Egyptians demonstrated against President Hosni Mubarak's fifth term, with conflicting reports about the number of detained protesters.
31 Mar UN Millennium Ecosystem Assessment Warns of Global Environmental Crisis: The UN-backed Millennium Ecosystem Assessment reported substantial and potentially irreversible biodiversity loss, warning of critical risks to basic resources like water, food, and timber.
01 Apr Pope John Paul II's Critical Health Condition: Pope John Paul II was in critical condition, experiencing septic shock and cardiovascular collapse. The Vatican denied premature reports of his death, creating a moment of global anticipation and concern for the pontiff's health.
02 Apr Pope John Paul II Dies: Pope John Paul II passed away at age 84 in his Vatican apartment, marking the end of the third-longest papacy in Catholic Church history. His death prompted global mourning among Catholics and non-Catholics alike, signaling the conclusion of a significant papal era.
03 Apr World Leaders Mourn Pope John Paul II: Following the death of Pope John Paul II, numerous world leaders including John Howard of Australia, Tony Blair of the United Kingdom, and George W. Bush of the United States expressed their condolences and paid tribute to the pontiff.
04 Apr Pope John Paul II Funeral Arrangements: The Vatican officially announced that Pope John Paul II's funeral would take place on the morning of April 8, with his burial to be in the Vatican's papal crypt, marking the end of a significant papal era.
05 Apr Rwanda Genocide Suspects in France: Rwandan official Aloys Mutabingwa claimed that 100 individuals linked to the Rwandan genocide were living comfortably in France, raising international legal and ethical concerns.
06 Apr Jalal Talabani Becomes Iraqi President: In a historic political transition, Kurdish leader Jalal Talabani was elected as the President of Iraq. The following day, Shiite Arab Ibrahim al-Jaafari was named as the country's premier, signaling a new era of political representation and power-sharing in post-Saddam Iraq.
07 Apr Iraq's Interim Prime Minister: Ibrahim Jaafari, a Shia politician, was elected as the interim prime minister of Iraq, marking a significant moment in the country's post-Saddam political transition.
08 Apr Pope John Paul II Funeral: Two million people gathered in Vatican City for the funeral of Pope John Paul II, which is considered possibly the largest funeral in human history. The event marked the end of a significant papal era and drew unprecedented global attention.
09 Apr Anti-U.S. Occupation Protests in Baghdad: Tens of thousands of demonstrators, predominantly supporters of Shia cleric Moqtada Sadr, marched through Baghdad denouncing the U.S. occupation of Iraq. The protest occurred two years after the fall of Saddam Hussein, with protesters gathering at Firdus Square, the symbolic site where Hussein's statue was toppled in 2003.
10 Apr Tiger Woods Wins Fourth Masters: Tiger Woods clinched his fourth Masters title at the 69th US Masters Tournament, defeating Chris DiMarco in a playoff, further solidifying his legendary status in golf.
11 Apr Nazi Major Karl Plagge Honored as 'Righteous Among the Nations': Yad Vashem posthumously bestowed the prestigious honor of 'Righteous Among the Nations' upon Nazi Major Karl Plagge, who courageously saved approximately 1,200 Jews (mostly women and children) during the Holocaust by providing them forced labor at a vehicle workshop, effectively protecting them from execution.
12 Apr Factory Collapse in Bangladesh Claims 21 Lives: A tragic factory collapse in Dacca, Bangladesh resulted in 21 confirmed deaths, with hundreds of workers still trapped in the rubble. The incident highlights ongoing workplace safety concerns in developing countries.
13 Apr EU Expansion Milestone: The European Parliament votes in favor of Bulgaria and Romania joining the European Union, setting their accession for 2007 and marking a significant moment of European integration.
14 Apr Angola Combats Marburg Virus Through Funeral Practice Restrictions: Angola's government implemented emergency measures to prevent Marburg virus transmission by prohibiting traditional funeral practices involving physical contact with the deceased, amid a severe outbreak that has already claimed over 210 lives.
15 Apr NASA Warns of Gulf Stream Slowdown: NASA reported a significant slowdown of the Gulf Stream, potentially leading to severe economic and climatic disruptions in Northern Europe, signaling potential long-term environmental changes.
16 Apr G7 Leaders Discuss Global Economic Challenges: G7 leaders convened at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, D.C., to discuss critical global economic issues, including rising oil prices and the pegging of the Chinese Yuan to the U.S. Dollar.
17 Apr Indonesia-Aceh Peace Negotiations: According to mediator Martti Ahtisaari, negotiations between the Indonesian government and the Free Aceh Movement in Helsinki concluded 'constructively', with further talks planned for May.
18 Apr Sino-Japanese Diplomatic Tensions: Diplomatic relations between China and Japan deteriorated further as China refused to apologize for anti-Japanese demonstrations and accused Japan of mishandling historical and geopolitical issues.
19 Apr Pope Benedict XVI Succeeds Pope John Paul II: Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was elected as the 265th pope, succeeding Pope John Paul II, marking a significant transition in the Catholic Church's leadership.
20 Apr Moussaoui 9/11 Trial Development: Zacarias Moussaoui indicated his intention to plead guilty in connection with the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, potentially leading to a death penalty sentence.
21 Apr First US Director of National Intelligence Appointed: John Negroponte was appointed as the inaugural United States Director of National Intelligence, a critical role in coordinating and overseeing the US intelligence community in the post-9/11 era.
22 Apr Moussaoui Terror Charges Plea: Zacarias Moussaoui pleaded guilty in U.S. Federal Court to terrorism-related charges, a significant moment in the post-9/11 legal proceedings against alleged terrorist operatives.
23 Apr First YouTube Video Published: YouTube co-founder Jawed Karim uploaded the platform's first video, titled 'Me at the zoo', marking the beginning of what would become a revolutionary video-sharing platform that would transform digital media and online communication.
24 Apr Inauguration of Pope Benedict XVI: Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was formally installed as the 265th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the papal name Benedict XVI during a significant ceremony in St. Peter's Square, Vatican City. As a German theologian, he was known for his conservative theological stance and succeeded Pope John Paul II.
25 Apr Amagasaki Rail Disaster: A devastating passenger train derailment occurred in Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, resulting in 107 fatalities and 456 injuries. This tragic accident is considered Japan's deadliest rail crash since 1963, highlighting significant safety concerns in the country's transportation system.
26 Apr Syrian Withdrawal from Lebanon: Under intense international pressure, Syria completes its military withdrawal from Lebanon, ending a 29-year occupation. This marks a significant geopolitical shift in the Middle East, fulfilling UN Security Council Resolution 1559 and restoring Lebanese sovereignty.
27 Apr Airbus A380 Maiden Flight: The Airbus A380, the world's largest commercial passenger aircraft, completed its historic maiden test flight from Toulouse, France, marking a significant milestone in aviation technology. This superjumbo jet represents a major leap forward in passenger aircraft design, surpassing the Boeing 747 in size and capacity.
28 Apr First Elected Government in Iraq: Three months after legislative elections, Iraq's National Assembly votes overwhelmingly for a Shi'a-led Cabinet, marking a historic moment as the country's first democratically elected government. Despite this milestone, challenges remain with unfilled deputy prime minister positions and temporary management of key ministries.
29 Apr Historic Meeting Between Kuomintang and Communist Party Leaders: Kuomintang Chairman Lien Chau meets with Communist Party of China Secretary-General Hu Jintao, marking the highest-ranking contact between the parties since the historic meeting of Chiang Kai-shek and Mao Zedong in August 1945.
30 Apr Vietnam War Anniversary: Vietnam commemorates the 30th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, marking a significant milestone in the country's history and reflecting on the conflict's lasting impact.
01 May Lenovo Acquires IBM's Personal Computer Business: In a landmark business transaction, Lenovo Group, China's largest computer company, purchased IBM's personal computer division for US$1.25 billion in cash, also assuming $500 million of IBM's debt. This acquisition marked a significant moment in global technology and international business relations.
02 May Abu Ghraib Abuse Scandal Continues: Army Reservist Pfc. Lynndie England pleaded guilty to seven criminal counts related to the Abu Ghraib prisoner abuse scandal, a significant moment in the investigation of military misconduct in Iraq.
03 May Iran's Nuclear Activity Plans: An Iranian official announced plans to resume nuclear activity during a conference on the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, signaling potential international tensions regarding nuclear development.
04 May Capture of Abu Faraj al-Libbi: Pakistan announced the capture of Abu Faraj al-Libbi, considered the most prominent Al-Qaeda suspect arrested at that time. A former CIA agent also revealed details about a post-9/11 mission to Afghanistan with orders to capture or kill Osama bin Laden, with graphic instructions about handling captured leaders.
05 May Tony Blair's Historic Third Term: Tony Blair becomes the first Labour Party prime minister to win three consecutive terms, a significant milestone in modern British political history, demonstrating his enduring political appeal and the party's sustained public support.
06 May UK General Election: Tony Blair's Third Victory: The Labour Party, led by Tony Blair, secured its third consecutive electoral victory with a reduced parliamentary majority of 66 seats. This election marked a historic moment in British politics, with Blair maintaining power despite a significantly smaller margin of support.
07 May Insurgent Attacks in Iraq: Ongoing insurgent violence continues in Iraq, with at least 35 Iraqis killed in bombings in Mosul and Baghdad, highlighting the persistent instability in the region.
08 May Bush Criticizes Soviet Occupation of Baltic States: During V-E Day commemorations, U.S. President George W. Bush denounced the Soviet Union's post-World War II occupation of the Baltic States as 'one of history's greatest injustices'. He delivered this statement while visiting Margraten, Europe's third-largest war cemetery in the Netherlands.
09 May World War II Victory Day Commemoration in Moscow: Over 50 world leaders attend celebrations in Moscow marking the end of World War II. Notably, this is the first time a German chancellor participates in a global commemoration of the Third Reich's victims.
10 May Germany Unveils Holocaust Memorial: Germany officially unveiled the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe in Berlin, near the Brandenburg Gate, creating a powerful and somber tribute to Holocaust victims and a significant symbol of national remembrance and reconciliation.
11 May Saddam Hussein Indicted for Crimes Against Humanity: Kuwaiti justice officials, with assistance from a UN war crimes expert, indicted Saddam Hussein and other Iraqi officials for crimes against humanity related to Kuwait's 1990 invasion, continuing the international legal proceedings against the former dictator.
12 May Oil-for-Influence Scandal Revealed: A U.S. Senate investigation uncovered evidence that British and French politicians received oil vouchers in exchange for supporting Saddam Hussein's regime. George Galloway was specifically charged with using a children's charity to hide an oil transfer, though he denied wrongdoing.
13 May Andijan Uprising in Uzbekistan: A tragic massacre occurred in Andijan, Uzbekistan, where government troops opened fire on crowds of protesters following a prison break. Official estimates indicate at least 187 people were killed during this violent suppression of civil unrest.
14 May South Korea to Resume Talks with North Korea: South Korea announced plans to resume bilateral talks with North Korea after a suspension of over a year, with the North Korean nuclear weapons program expected to be a key discussion point.
15 May US Diplomatic Efforts and Violence in Iraq: US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice visited Iraq, urging patience in combating insurgency. The visit was overshadowed by the grim discovery of 34 bodies in Baghdad and Iskandariya, believed to be victims of execution.
16 May Kuwait Grants Women Voting Rights: Kuwait made a historic step towards gender equality by allowing women to vote in the National Assembly election, with a 35-23 vote in favor of women's suffrage.
17 May Kylie Minogue Announces Breast Cancer Diagnosis: Popular Australian pop singer Kylie Minogue publicly announced her early-stage breast cancer diagnosis, revealing she would cancel her Australian tour and bringing significant public attention to breast cancer awareness.
18 May Uzbekistan Unrest and Diplomatic Tensions: Significant unrest in Uzbekistan with conflicting reports about civilian casualties. 36 foreign diplomats visited Andijan under heavy guard. The Uzbek government reported 169 deaths, while human rights groups suggested the toll could be as high as 775. Islamic rebels claimed control of the border town Qorasuv.
19 May Rwandan Genocide Apology: In a historic moment, General Marcel Gatsinzi, Rwanda's defense minister, publicly apologized for his participation in the 1994 Rwandan genocide. This was the first time a member of the current government acknowledged direct involvement in the tragic events.
20 May Star Wars Episode III Breaks Box Office Records: Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith opens with a record-breaking $50 million on its first day, surpassing previous opening day records set by Spider-Man 2 and Shrek 2, across 3,661 theaters worldwide.
21 May Bush Delivers Controversial Commencement Speech: President George W. Bush delivers a commencement speech at Calvin College, where a significant portion of faculty publicly criticize his administration's policies, particularly regarding the Iraq War, highlighting the deep political divisions of the time.
22 May German Political Shift: German Chancellor Gerhard Schroder announced early federal elections for autumn, one year ahead of constitutional schedule. This decision followed the CDU and FDP's victory in the North Rhine-Westphalia regional election, signaling potential political transformation.
23 May Bird Flu Outbreak Escalates in Asia: Vietnam's bird flu death toll rose to 18, while China took preventive measures by closing Qinghai province and vaccinating farm birds. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization was informed of these containment efforts to prevent further spread of the disease.
24 May Deadly Bombings in Iraq: A series of bombings in Iraq resulted in at least five Iraqi civilian deaths and seven US soldiers wounded, demonstrating the persistent violence and instability in the region during the Iraq War.
25 May Voyager 1 Approaches Interstellar Space: NASA's Voyager 1 spacecraft reaches the heliosheath, preparing to become the first human-made object to enter interstellar space, marking a significant milestone in space exploration.
26 May Charles Kennedy, British Liberal Democrat leader, calls for reform to the UK's voting system after Labour won the majority of seats in the UK election. However, Labour received only 35% of votes.
27 May Qur'an Desecration Protests: Widespread protests erupted in Egypt, Pakistan, and Jordan after the US military admitted to mishandling the Qur'an, causing significant diplomatic tension and highlighting cultural sensitivities.
28 May Japan Closes World War II Sex Slavery Fund: Japan announced the closure of the Asian Women's Fund by March 2007. Established in 1995, the fund provided compensation and medical support of 2 million yen ($19,470) to 285 'comfort women' in South Korea, Taiwan, and the Philippines who were victims of sexual slavery during World War II.
29 May French Referendum Rejects EU Constitution: In a significant political moment, French voters decisively rejected the draft European Union constitution, with 55% voting against the proposed treaty. This referendum sent shockwaves through European political circles and challenged the vision of a unified European political structure.
30 May Angela Merkel Selected as CDU/CSU Chancellor Candidate: The CDU/CSU political alliance elected Angela Merkel as their candidate for Chancellor in the 2005 German Federal Election, marking a significant moment in German political history.
31 May Deep Throat Reveals Identity in Watergate Scandal: W. Mark Felt, a former FBI official, publicly admits in Vanity Fair magazine that he was the anonymous source 'Deep Throat' who played a crucial role in exposing the Watergate scandal during the Nixon administration.
01 Jun Dutch Reject European Constitution: In a significant blow to European integration, the Netherlands held a national referendum on the proposed European Constitution, with voters decisively rejecting the treaty by a margin of 61.6% to 38.4%. This referendum followed France's earlier rejection, effectively putting the proposed constitution in jeopardy.
02 Jun UN Report: AIDS Epidemic Continues to Grow: UN Secretary General Kofi Annan announced a report revealing that the global AIDS epidemic continues to accelerate despite significant international intervention efforts.
03 Jun Israeli-Palestinian Tensions Escalate: In an ongoing conflict, two Israeli soldiers alleged they were ordered to kill Palestinian police officers following the deaths of six Israeli soldiers. Simultaneously, Israel announced plans to construct 22 additional homes in a West Bank settlement, further complicating the regional geopolitical landscape.
04 Jun Beirut Mourns Samir Kassir: A massive funeral was held for Samir Kassir, an anti-Syrian columnist assassinated in a bomb attack. Opposition leaders, including Gibran Tueni and Saad al-Hariri, attended the event, symbolizing the political tension in Lebanon.
05 Jun Breakthrough Vaccine Against Ebola and Marburg Viruses: An international scientific collaboration involving researchers from France, Canada, and the United States reported a groundbreaking development: a vaccine effective against both Ebola and Marburg viruses in monkey trials, offering hope for potential human applications in combating these deadly diseases.
06 Jun Darfur Investigation Launched: The International Criminal Court announces an investigation into crimes against humanity in Darfur, highlighting ongoing international efforts to address humanitarian crises.
07 Jun Pinochet Legal Developments: Chile's Santiago Court of Appeals revokes Augusto Pinochet's immunity from prosecution, though ruling he is too ill to face human rights violation charges. He continues to face potential tax fraud prosecution.
08 Jun Bolivia Faces Political Turmoil and Potential Civil War: Bolivia experienced widespread demonstrations following the resignation of ex-president Carlos Mesa, who warned of potential civil war without elections. The political crisis escalated with Mesa's anticipated congressional resignation, signaling significant national instability.
09 Jun Syria Ends State of Emergency: The ruling Baath party in Syria voted to terminate the 40-year-long state of emergency, signaling a potential shift in the country's political landscape.
10 Jun Bolivia Presidential Transition Amid Political Unrest: The Bolivian Congress accepted Carlos Mesa's resignation and appointed Eduardo Rodriguez, a Supreme Court justice, as interim president. The military stood ready to intervene if political protests continued, signaling a tense political transition.
11 Jun G8 Debt Relief for Poorest Countries: G8 finance ministers reached a landmark agreement to cancel the multilateral debt of 18 of the world's poorest countries, a significant step towards addressing global economic inequality and supporting developing nations' economic development.
12 Jun Steve Jobs' Stanford Commencement Address: Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple Computer and Pixar Animation Studios, delivered a memorable commencement address at Stanford University, sharing insights from his personal and professional life.
13 Jun U.S. Senate Apologizes for Failure to Criminalize Lynching: The U.S. Senate issues a formal apology for its decades-long failure to pass federal legislation making lynching a federal crime, acknowledging a dark chapter in American civil rights history.
14 Jun Sudan Rejects ICC Prosecution for Darfur Atrocities: Sudan rejected the United Nations' decision to use the International Criminal Court to prosecute criminals for Darfur atrocities, instead opting to establish its own special court, raising concerns about genuine accountability.
15 Jun Mexico Human Rights Legal Action: Mexico's Supreme Court ruled that former President Luis Echeverria can be legally indicted for human rights violations related to the violent suppression of student activists in 1971.
16 Jun School Hostage Crisis in Cambodia: A traumatic hostage situation unfolded in Siem Reap, Cambodia, where six unidentified gunmen took over a school, holding between 24-70 hostages, mostly children. Tragically, a Canadian child was executed before the hostages were ultimately freed.
17 Jun US House Votes to Cut UN Dues: Against President Bush's recommendation, the House approved a bill 221-184 to reduce U.S. payments to the United Nations by 50% beginning in 2007 if broad organizational changes are not implemented.
18 Jun 2005 Alberta Flood Emergency in Calgary and Surrounding Areas: On June 18, 2005, Canada experienced a significant flooding event along the Elbow River following an intense night of heavy rain, hail, and unusually cold temperatures. The dam was overwhelmed, causing widespread flooding that necessitated emergency evacuations. Multiple communities were impacted, including low-lying areas of Calgary, Alberta, as well as the towns of Okotoks, High River, and Sundre. The state of emergency was officially lifted on this date, marking the end of the immediate crisis.
19 Jun 2005 US Grand Prix Tire Controversy: A dramatic Formula One event at Indianapolis where 14 cars from seven Michelin-equipped teams withdrew after the formation lap due to safety concerns about tire failures, leaving only six Bridgestone-shod cars to race, creating an unprecedented and controversial motorsport moment.
20 Jun Death of Jack Kilby, Nobel Prize-Winning Electrical Engineer: Jack Kilby, a pioneering American electrical engineer who revolutionized modern electronics, passed away at the age of 81. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2000 for his groundbreaking work on integrated circuits, which fundamentally transformed technology and paved the way for modern computing and electronic devices.
21 Jun Edgar Ray Killen Convicted for Civil Rights Murders: Edgar Ray Killen, a former Ku Klux Klan leader, was convicted of manslaughter for the 1964 murders of civil rights activists James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Mickey Schwerner, 41 years after the original crime. This landmark case represented a delayed but significant moment of justice for the civil rights movement.
22 Jun Nazi War Criminals Sentenced for World War II Massacre: An Italian military tribunal in La Spezia sentenced 10 former Nazi officers to life imprisonment in absentia for their role in the Sant'Anna di Stazzema massacre, which resulted in the deaths of 560 civilians during World War II.
23 Jun KKK Member Sentenced for Civil Rights Murders: Edgar Ray Killen, an elderly Ku Klux Klan member, was sentenced to 80 years in prison for the 1964 murder of three civil rights workers, a crime that significantly fueled the civil rights movement and inspired the film 'Mississippi Burning'.
24 Jun CIA Rendition Controversy in Italy: An Italian judge ordered the arrest of 13 CIA-linked individuals for the kidnapping and alleged torture of terrorism suspect Abu Omar in Egypt, highlighting growing tensions between the United States and its allies during the War on Terrorism.
25 Jun Mahmoud Ahmadinejad Wins Iranian Presidential Election: Hardline Tehran Mayor Mahmoud Ahmadinejad won the Iranian presidential runoff election with 62% of the vote, signaling a significant shift in Iran's political landscape.
26 Jun Indian Ocean Tsunami Aftermath: Six months after the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami, the death toll had reached 178,000 across 11 countries, with an additional 50,000 people still reported missing. This catastrophic event remains one of the deadliest natural disasters in modern history.
27 Jun BTK Killer Dennis Rader Pleads Guilty: Dennis Rader, infamously known as the BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) serial killer, pleaded guilty to ten murder charges in the Sedgwick County District Court, bringing closure to a series of horrific crimes that terrorized Wichita, Kansas for decades.
28 Jun Operation Red Wings Tragedy: A devastating military operation in Kunar, Afghanistan, where three US Navy SEAL team members were killed in an ambush on Sawtalo Sar Mountain. Two rescue helicopters were also shot down, resulting in the deaths of an additional 16 US troops, making it one of the deadliest days for US Special Forces in the Afghanistan conflict.
29 Jun Hezbollah-Israel Border Conflict Escalates: Hezbollah launched mortar and rocket attacks on Israeli positions in the disputed Shebaa farms, resulting in five wounded soldiers and one fatality. Israel retaliated with missile strikes on southern Lebanese villages and planned to file a complaint against UNIFIL and Lebanon for failing to prevent Hezbollah's aggression.
30 Jun Spain Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: Spain's parliament votes in favor of legalizing same-sex marriages, becoming the third European country to do so. The bill passed with 187 votes for, 147 against, and four abstentions, marking a significant milestone in LGBTQ+ rights.
01 Jul Sandra Day O'Connor Announces Supreme Court Retirement: Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court, announced her retirement after 24 years of distinguished service, marking a significant moment in judicial history.
02 Jul London Wins 2012 Summer Olympics Bid: The International Olympic Committee selected London as the host city for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games, marking a significant moment in the city's history and setting the stage for a major international sporting event.
03 Jul Spain Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: Spain becomes one of the first countries globally to legally recognize same-sex marriage nationwide, marking a significant milestone in LGBTQ+ rights and social equality.
04 Jul NASA Deep Impact Mission Strikes Comet Tempel 1: NASA's 'Copper bullet' spacecraft from the Deep Impact mission successfully collided with Comet Tempel 1, creating a scientific crater to study the comet's composition and internal structure. This groundbreaking mission provided unprecedented insights into the early solar system's formation.
05 Jul United Church of Christ Supports Same-Sex Marriage: The United Church of Christ became the first mainline U.S. Christian denomination to officially support same-sex marriages, passing a resolution encouraging member churches to adopt non-discriminatory wedding policies and support equal marriage rights.
06 Jul Chilean Court Removes Pinochet's Immunity: A Chilean court removed Augusto Pinochet's presidential immunity, allowing prosecution for investigations into the disappearance of political opposition during Operation Colombo, a crucial step in addressing human rights violations.
07 Jul London 7/7 Terrorist Bombings: On July 7, 2005, a coordinated terrorist attack struck London's transportation network. Four explosions occurred - three on the London Underground and one on a bus - resulting in 52 civilian deaths and over 700 injuries. The attacks were later confirmed to be suicide bombings carried out by al-Qaeda-inspired extremists.
08 Jul G8 Summit Concludes with Africa and Counter-Terrorism Commitments: The G8 Summit concluded with significant global commitments, including doubling aid to Africa from $25 billion to $50 billion by 2010, strengthening the Broader Middle East and North Africa initiative, and reaffirming a strong stance on counter-terrorism and non-proliferation.
09 Jul G8 Summit: Global Aid Commitments: At the 31st G8 summit in Gleneagles, world leaders pledged $50 billion to combat African poverty and $3 billion to Palestine for infrastructure development.
10 Jul John Garang Sworn as Sudan's Vice President: As part of the comprehensive peace agreement ending the Second Sudanese Civil War, John Garang, a prominent former rebel leader, was sworn into office as Vice President of Sudan, marking a significant milestone in the country's reconciliation efforts.
11 Jul Srebrenica Massacre Remembrance Ceremony: Tens of thousands of people gathered in Potocari, Bosnia and Herzegovina, to commemorate the Srebrenica massacre and provide a dignified burial for 610 victims, marking a solemn moment of remembrance for one of the most tragic events of the Bosnian War.
12 Jul London Bombings Suspects Identified: London police have identified four suspects in the July 7, 2005 London bombings. All are British citizens, apparently from Leeds in West Yorkshire. At least one suspect is believed to have been killed in the blasts. Forensic raids uncovered explosive materials and critical evidence.
13 Jul Suicide Car Bombing in Iraq: A devastating suicide car bomb near U.S. troops distributing candy and toys in Iraq killed over two dozen people, including 18 children and teenagers, and an American soldier, highlighting the brutal nature of the conflict.
14 Jul Europe Remembers London Bombing Victims: European citizens observed a two-minute silence to honor those killed in the London bombings of July 2005.
15 Jul London Bombing Suspect Arrested in Egypt: Magdi al Nashar, a chemist, was arrested in Egypt after being sought by British police in connection with the July 7th London bombings.
16 Jul Deadly Suicide Bombing near Baghdad: A devastating suicide bomber detonated explosives near an LPG fuel tanker south of Baghdad, causing a massive explosion that killed over 60 people and injured approximately 100. This attack was considered one of the most severe insurgent operations since the US occupation of Iraq, demonstrating the ongoing volatility in the region.
17 Jul Deadly Attacks in Iraq: A devastating fuel truck bombing killed 98 people, while three suicide car bombers attacked the capital of Iraq, underscoring the intense violence and instability in the region during this period.
18 Jul General William Westmoreland Passes Away: General William Westmoreland, a prominent military commander who led U.S. forces during the Vietnam War, died peacefully at a retirement home in South Carolina, marking the end of an era in American military history.
19 Jul Canada Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: The Canadian Senate passed Bill C-38 to legalize gay marriage, a landmark moment in LGBTQ+ rights. Upon receiving royal assent from Governor General Adrienne Blackson, the bill would become law, marking significant social progress.
20 Jul Canada Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: Canada's Civil Marriage Act receives Royal Assent, officially legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide. This landmark legislation made Canada the fourth country in the world to recognize same-sex marriages, marking a significant milestone in LGBTQ+ rights and social equality.
21 Jul London Attempted Terrorist Attacks: A coordinated terrorist attack targeted London's public transportation system, occurring exactly two weeks after the July 7 bombings. Four attempted bomb attacks were made on three underground trains and a London bus. Fortunately, the bombs failed to detonate properly, resulting in minimal disruption and only one unrelated injury.
22 Jul Jean Charles de Menezes Killed by London Police: On July 22, 2005, Jean Charles de Menezes, a 27-year-old Brazilian electrician, was fatally shot by Metropolitan Police at Stockwell Underground Station in London. He was mistakenly identified as a potential suicide bomber during the heightened security following the London bombings. The incident sparked significant controversy about police tactics and racial profiling.
23 Jul Sharm el-Sheikh Terrorist Attacks: A devastating terrorist attack occurred in the popular Egyptian resort town of Naama Bay, Sharm el-Sheikh, where three coordinated bomb explosions killed 88 people and injured many more. This tragic event shocked the international community and highlighted the ongoing terrorism challenges in the region.
24 Jul Lance Armstrong Wins Seventh Tour de France: Lance Armstrong, an American cyclist and cancer survivor, won his seventh consecutive Tour de France, marking an unprecedented achievement in professional cycling. He announced this would be his final Tour de France before retirement, capping a remarkable career.
25 Jul US-North Korea Diplomatic Talks Resume: Bilateral diplomatic negotiations between the United States and North Korea recommence, signaling potential diplomatic engagement amid ongoing tensions.
26 Jul Mumbai Floods of 2005: Mumbai (formerly Bombay), India's financial capital, experienced catastrophic flooding after receiving 995mm of rainfall within 24 hours. The extreme weather event brought the city to a complete standstill for over two days, causing significant disruption and damage.
27 Jul Maharashtra Floods Disaster: Devastating monsoon rains and landslides in Maharashtra, India, resulted in at least 418 fatalities, causing significant loss of life and widespread destruction.
28 Jul IRA Formally Ends Armed Campaign: The Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) issued an official statement formally ending its armed campaign that had been ongoing since 1969, ordering all its units to surrender their weapons. This marked a significant turning point in the Northern Ireland conflict, signaling a shift towards peaceful political resolution.
29 Jul Discovery of Dwarf Planet Eris: Astronomers announced the groundbreaking discovery of Eris, a significant trans-Neptunian object in the outer Solar System. This celestial body's discovery challenged previous understanding of planetary classification and ultimately contributed to the redefinition of planetary status.
30 Jul G8 Aid Pledge to Africa: G8 leaders committed to doubling aid to Africa from US$25 billion in 2004 to US$50 billion by 2010, influenced by the global Live 8 concert series and international advocacy for African development.
31 Jul Mumbai Monsoon Floods: Mumbai, India, faced severe monsoon flooding, with torrential rains causing widespread destruction. The catastrophic floods resulted in approximately 1,000 fatalities, highlighting the city's vulnerability to extreme weather events.
01 Aug US Marines Killed in Iraq Insurgent Attack: Six US Marines were killed in an insurgent attack in Haditha, located 140 miles northwest of Baghdad, highlighting the ongoing violence and challenges during the Iraq conflict.
02 Aug Air France Flight 358 Crash Survival: Air France Flight 358 crashed during a severe thunderstorm at Toronto Pearson International Airport, bursting into flames at 4:03 p.m. Miraculously, all 309 passengers and crew survived the incident.
03 Aug Mahmoud Ahmadinejad Elected President of Iran: Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was officially elected as the President of Iran, marking a significant moment in Iranian political history that would have substantial geopolitical implications.
04 Aug Death Sentence Upheld in Indian Parliament Attack Case: The Indian Supreme Court confirms the death sentence for Mohammad Afzal in connection with the parliament attack case, highlighting judicial proceedings in terrorism-related incidents.
05 Aug Sudan's John Garang Killed in Helicopter Crash: John Garang, leader of the Sudan People's Liberation Army and recently appointed vice president, dies in a helicopter crash. His death threatens the fragile peace agreement and sparks street demonstrations. Salva Kiir Mayardit assumes leadership of SPLA.
06 Aug London Terror Suspects Charged: Yassin Hassan Omar, Ibrahim Muktar Said, and Ramzi Mohamed were formally indicted in London on serious charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and possession of explosives, related to terrorist activities.
07 Aug Deadly Insurgent Attacks in Iraq: A series of insurgent attacks in Iraq resulted in 39 fatalities, including at least two U.S. soldiers, underscoring the ongoing violence and instability in the region during the Iraq War.
08 Aug Iran Resumes Nuclear Program: Iran recommenced its nuclear activities at the uranium enrichment plant near Isfahan, escalating international tensions regarding its nuclear capabilities.
09 Aug Israel Orders Gaza Strip Settlement Evacuation: Israel issued orders for Israeli settlers in the Gaza Strip to abandon their settlements or face expulsion, a critical moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
10 Aug Deadly Day in Iraq War: Six US soldiers were killed by insurgents in Iraq, including four in an attack on Baiji, a northern Kurdish oil-producing city. This tragic event brought the total US military deaths in Iraq to 1,841, underscoring the ongoing conflict's human cost.
11 Aug Political Transition in Sudan: Following the death of John Garang, Salva Kiir was sworn in as Vice-President of Sudan. Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni (note: corrected name) warned against publishing conspiracy theories about Garang's death.
12 Aug Assassination of Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar: Lakshman Kadirgamar, the prominent Sri Lankan foreign minister, was assassinated by a suspected Tamil Tigers (LTTE) sniper in Colombo. Kadirgamar was a key moderate Tamil politician who opposed the LTTE's violent separatist movement, making him a significant target.
13 Aug Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Launch: NASA launched the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, a sophisticated spacecraft designed to study the Martian surface and atmosphere in unprecedented detail. This mission represented a significant advancement in planetary exploration, equipped with high-resolution imaging capabilities and advanced scientific instruments.
14 Aug Helios Airways Flight 522 Crash: Helios Airways Flight 522 crashed north of Athens, resulting in the tragic loss of all 121 passengers and crew members. The aircraft, en route from Larnaca, Cyprus to Prague, Czech Republic via Athens, experienced a critical decompression issue that led to the fatal accident near Grammatiko, Greece.
15 Aug Israel's Gaza Strip Disengagement: Israel initiated its unilateral disengagement plan, beginning the process of evicting all Israeli settlers from the Gaza Strip and four settlements in the northern West Bank. This significant geopolitical move marked a pivotal moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, aiming to reduce tensions and redefine territorial boundaries.
16 Aug West Caribbean Airways Flight 708 Crash: West Caribbean Airways Flight 708, a McDonnell Douglas MD-82, crashed into a mountain in Machiques, Venezuela, resulting in the tragic loss of all 160 passengers on board.
17 Aug Israeli Disengagement from Gaza: The first forced evacuation of Israeli settlers from the Gaza Strip begins as part of the unilateral Israeli Disengagement Plan, marking a significant moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
18 Aug Tensions in Iraq: US Troops Casualties and Civilian Conflict: Four US troops were killed by insurgents in an IED blast in Samarra, Iraq. Simultaneously, tensions escalated in Baghdad's Al-A'amiriya District after US troops allegedly killed three local Iraqi brothers, including a disabled person, leading to accusations of terrorism and heightened community anger.
19 Aug 9/11 Terrorist Trial: Mounir El Motassadeq was convicted for his involvement in the 9/11 attacks in Hamburg, Germany, and sentenced to seven years imprisonment. This marked a significant legal proceeding related to the terrorist attacks.
20 Aug Northwest Airlines Mechanics Strike: Northwest Airlines mechanics initiated a labor strike, disrupting airline operations and highlighting ongoing labor disputes in the aviation industry.
21 Aug Israeli Disengagement from Gaza Begins: The first forced evacuation of Jewish settlers commenced as part of Israel's unilateral disengagement plan from the Gaza Strip. This historic and controversial process involved removing Israeli settlers from their settlements, marking a significant moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
22 Aug Israeli Withdrawal from Gaza Settlement: Israeli forces completed the evacuation of Netzarim, the last remaining Israeli settlement in the Gaza Strip, involving approximately 500 settlers. Plans were made to continue evacuations in the West Bank.
23 Aug Israel's Unilateral Disengagement from Gaza Strip and West Bank: Israel completed a significant geopolitical move by withdrawing from 25 Jewish settlements in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, marking a pivotal moment in the Israeli-Palestinian territorial conflict.
24 Aug Hurricane Katrina Forms: A tropical depression formed over the central Bahamas on August 24, 2005, which developed into Tropical Storm Katrina, marking the beginning of one of the most destructive hurricanes in U.S. history.
25 Aug Sectarian Violence in Iraq: Intense sectarian conflict erupted in multiple Iraqi cities including Najaf, Diwaniyah, and Baghdad. Cleric Muqtada al-Sadr called for an end to violence between his followers and the Badr Organizations, leading to political tensions and suspension of parliamentary memberships.
26 Aug Tragic Fire in Paris Immigrant Housing: A devastating fire erupted in a Paris building housing African immigrants, resulting in the tragic deaths of 14 children and three adults, highlighting issues of housing safety and immigrant living conditions.
27 Aug Hurricane Katrina Reaches Category 3 Intensity: Hurricane Katrina reached Category 3 intensity in the Gulf of Mexico approximately 335 miles south-southeast of the Mississippi River's mouth, with maximum sustained winds of 115 miles per hour. This powerful storm would go on to become one of the most destructive hurricanes in U.S. history, causing catastrophic damage to the Gulf Coast, particularly New Orleans.
28 Aug Hurricane Katrina Mandatory Evacuation Order in New Orleans: New Orleans, Louisiana mayor Ray Nagin and Louisiana governor Kathleen Blanco issued a mandatory evacuation order as Hurricane Katrina approached the Louisiana coast, signaling the imminent threat to the city.
29 Aug Hurricane Katrina Devastates U.S. Gulf Coast: Hurricane Katrina, a catastrophic Category 3 hurricane, made landfall on August 29, 2005, causing unprecedented destruction along the U.S. Gulf Coast. The hurricane devastated coastal regions from Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle, resulting in over 1,836 fatalities and causing approximately $125 billion in damage. The storm's immense impact was particularly severe in New Orleans, where widespread flooding occurred, with water levels reaching up to 31 feet in some areas. This event is now remembered as one of the deadliest and most costly natural disasters in U.S. history, often referred to as 'Black Monday' by Gulf Coast residents.
30 Aug New Orleans Flooding and Evacuation: New Orleans was almost entirely inundated by floodwaters after levees along Lake Pontchartrain broke. Attempts to repair the levees failed, and floodwaters were contaminated by gas leakage. Governor Kathleen Blanco ordered a complete city evacuation.
31 Aug Hurricane Katrina Devastation: By August 31, 2005, Hurricane Katrina had submerged 80% of New Orleans underwater, creating one of the most catastrophic natural disasters in U.S. history. President George W. Bush addressed the nation from the White House, outlining relief efforts and emphasizing that recovery would be possible, though challenging and prolonged. The federal government launched the largest search and rescue mission in U.S. history, with an estimated 25,000 people requiring relocation.
01 Sep Beslan School Siege Anniversary: Russia commemorates the first anniversary of the tragic Beslan school siege, where militants took nearly 1,200 hostages and killed 331 people, including many children. This devastating terrorist attack remains one of the most horrific incidents in modern Russian history.
02 Sep Bush Visits Hurricane Katrina Devastation: President George W. Bush toured areas devastated by Hurricane Katrina amid intense criticism of his administration's response. Despite media reports suggesting he would not visit New Orleans, Bush pledged that order would be restored and the city would recover from its 'darkest days'.
03 Sep Hurricane Katrina's Socio-Economic Impact: Harvard Law Professor Lani Guinier highlighted the racial and socio-economic disparities exposed by Hurricane Katrina, criticizing the systemic marginalization of poor Black communities, describing them as 'throwaway' people.
04 Sep Hurricane Katrina Death Toll Estimation: Michael Leavitt, Health and Human Services Secretary, publicly estimated the death toll from Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans would be in the thousands, acknowledging the deeply tragic and devastating situation.
05 Sep John Roberts Nominated as Chief Justice: President George W. Bush nominates John G. Roberts to be the Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, following the recent death of William Rehnquist. This nomination represents a significant moment in the U.S. judicial leadership transition.
06 Sep Hurricane Katrina Bureaucratic Criticism: Aaron Broussard, Louisiana's Jefferson Parish President, strongly criticized the bureaucratic response to Hurricane Katrina, asserting that administrative inefficiency had caused unnecessary deaths and demanding accountability.
07 Sep Hurricane Katrina Aftermath in New Orleans: New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin urges city residents to evacuate as the city remains 60% underwater. Estimated death toll ranges from 2,000 to 20,000, highlighting the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Katrina.
08 Sep Hurricane Katrina: Body Bag Procurement: Louisiana emergency officials requested 25,000 body bags to continue search and rescue operations in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. A state health department spokesperson acknowledged the uncertainty of the situation, indicating preparedness for potential mass casualties.
09 Sep Vice Admiral Thad W. Allen Leads Hurricane Katrina Relief: Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff appointed Vice Admiral Thad W. Allen to lead Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, replacing Michael D. Brown, the Federal Emergency Management Agency director. This change was crucial in coordinating the response to one of the most devastating natural disasters in U.S. history.
10 Sep 2005 World Summit Preparation: Preparations were underway for the 2005 World Summit, expected to be the largest gathering of global leaders in history, with over 170 world leaders anticipated to attend on September 14.
11 Sep Israel Ends Gaza Strip Military Occupation: After 38 years of military control, the State of Israel officially declared an end to its occupation of the Gaza Strip, marking a significant moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
12 Sep Israeli Disengagement from Gaza Strip: Israel completed its unilateral withdrawal of all troops and settlers from the Gaza Strip, marking a significant moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The withdrawal involved the demolition of approximately 2,530 homes and represented a major strategic shift in the region.
13 Sep John Roberts Senate Judiciary Hearing: Chief Justice nominee John Roberts testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee, affirming his belief in constitutional privacy rights and discussing civil liberties, constitutional interpretation, and legal principles.
14 Sep Largest UN World Summit in History: The United Nations World Summit, held from September 14-16 in New York City, brought together over 170 heads of state and government to discuss critical global issues, marking the largest such gathering in UN history.
15 Sep Bush Addresses Hurricane Katrina Devastation: President George W. Bush delivers an emotional address from Jackson Square, New Orleans, acknowledging the unprecedented devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina and pledging full support for the city's recovery.
16 Sep Deadly Mosque Bombing in Iraq: A devastating bombing at a Shia Mosque in Tuz Khurmatu, central Iraq, resulted in the tragic loss of at least 10 lives, highlighting the ongoing sectarian violence in the region.
17 Sep Iran Rejects EU Nuclear Offer: At the U.N. General Assembly, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad firmly rejects the European Union's offer to halt Iran's nuclear program, asserting Iran's right to develop nuclear technology.
18 Sep German Federal Election Results: Detailed results of the German federal elections: CDU/CSU received 35.2% (225 seats), SPD 34.3% (222 seats), FDP 9.8% (61 seats), Left Party 8.7% (54 seats), and Green Party 8.1% (51 seats). Potential coalition negotiations expected.
19 Sep North Korea Nuclear Disarmament Agreement: North Korea agrees to halt its nuclear weapons program in exchange for international cooperation and economic aid, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough in nuclear non-proliferation efforts.
20 Sep Death of Simon Wiesenthal, Renowned Nazi Hunter: Simon Wiesenthal, a legendary Holocaust survivor and Nazi hunter, passed away in Vienna, Austria at the age of 96. Throughout his life, he was instrumental in tracking down over 1,100 Nazi war criminals, playing a crucial role in bringing Holocaust perpetrators to justice.
21 Sep Hurricane Rita Threatens Gulf Coast: Hurricane Rita intensified to a Category 5 hurricane, becoming the third-most intense hurricane in recorded history. Mandatory evacuations were ordered for Galveston, Texas, and surrounding Gulf Coast areas. The inbound causeway to Galveston Island was closed to ensure public safety.
22 Sep President Bush Addresses War on Terror and Hurricane Katrina: President George W. Bush delivered a statement at the Pentagon discussing the ongoing War on Terror and hurricane preparation efforts. He acknowledged the military's crucial role in Hurricane Katrina's aftermath and reiterated the importance of combating terrorism in Iraq and other global fronts.
23 Sep Hurricane Rita Evacuation Bus Tragedy: Twenty-four elderly evacuees died when the bus transporting them away from Hurricane Rita's path caught fire, highlighting the dangerous conditions during the hurricane's approach.
24 Sep Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Escalation: Tensions escalated in the Gaza Strip with Israeli military positioning troops and artillery, while Palestinian militants launched 30 Qassam missiles into Israeli communities. The Israeli Air Force responded with strikes that killed four Hamas militants.
25 Sep Fernando Alonso Becomes Youngest F1 Champion: Fernando Alonso, driving for Renault, becomes the youngest Formula One World Champion by finishing third at the 2005 Brazilian Grand Prix, defeating rivals Juan Pablo Montoya and Kimi Raikkonen.
26 Sep Landmark Intelligent Design Court Case: The Kitzmiller et al. case began in Harrisburg District Court, Pennsylvania, representing the first direct legal challenge to a school district's curriculum requiring the teaching of intelligent design instead of evolution.
27 Sep Ongoing Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: Israeli Defense Forces continued airstrikes in Palestinian areas, destroying three bridges in the Gaza Strip and arresting a money changer in Khan Younis, further escalating tensions in the region.
28 Sep Escalating Israeli-Palestinian Tensions: Intense Israeli military operations continued in Palestinian territories, with airstrikes targeting Gaza, including power infrastructure disruption, bridge destruction in Beit Hanoun, and missile strikes on Fatah and militant group facilities.
29 Sep John Roberts Confirmed as Chief Justice of the United States: The United States Senate confirmed John G. Roberts, Jr. as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. He was confirmed with a vote of 78-22 and sworn into office on the same day, preparing to assume the Fall term of the Supreme Court beginning October 3, 2005.
30 Sep Bali Bombings of 2005: Terrorist attack in Bali results in 26 fatalities and over 100 injuries, marking another tragic incident in the region's history of terrorist violence.
01 Oct 2005 Bali Bombings: On October 1st, 2005, a devastating terrorist attack occurred in Bali, Indonesia, where multiple bombings killed 26 people and injured over 100 others. The attacks targeted popular tourist areas, causing significant loss of life and highlighting the ongoing threat of terrorism in the region.
02 Oct Bali Bombing Victims Evacuation: Severely injured victims of the 2005 Bali bombings are being evacuated to medical facilities in Australia and Singapore. The Australian Government provides support to Indonesia by sending forensic experts and federal police to assist with investigations.
03 Oct Nobel Prize in Medicine Awarded for Helicobacter Pylori Discovery: Robin Warren and Barry J. Marshall of Australia were awarded the 2005 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their groundbreaking discovery of Helicobacter pylori and its role in gastritis and peptic ulcer disease, revolutionizing medical understanding.
04 Oct US Troops Killed in Iraq Conflict: Five U.S. troops were killed during military operations in insurgent-held cities in Iraq, underscoring the ongoing violence and challenges in the region.
05 Oct U.S. Senate Votes to Ban Military Torture: Despite a potential veto threat from President George W. Bush, the United States Senate voted 90-9 to amend the defense spending bill, effectively banning torture by U.S. Military Forces.
06 Oct Iraq Conflict: Diplomatic Tensions and Violence: Iraqi President Jalal Talabani warned British Prime Minister Tony Blair that any troop withdrawal from Iraq would be catastrophic. On the same day, a devastating explosion near Baghdad's Ministry of Oil killed ten people, underscoring the ongoing instability.
07 Oct Intense Fighting in Western Iraq: Significant combat operations in western Iraq resulted in at least 29 Iraqi fighters killed and six U.S. Marines wounded. Additionally, 12 British soldiers were detained in connection with attacks on UK forces in southern Iraq.
08 Oct 2005 Kashmir Earthquake: On October 8, 2005, a devastating magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck northern Pakistan, causing massive destruction and loss of life. The earthquake resulted in at least 86,000 fatalities, over 69,000 injuries, and left approximately 4 million people homeless. The disaster primarily impacted the Kashmir region and North-West Frontier Province, causing unprecedented humanitarian challenges.
09 Oct New Orleans Police Brutality Incident: A controversial video emerged showing three white New Orleans police officers brutally beating Robert Davis, a 64-year-old Black man. The officers were arrested following the release of the video, which sparked discussions about police misconduct.
10 Oct Angela Merkel Becomes German Chancellor: Angela Merkel of the Christian Democratic Union is set to become the first female Chancellor of Germany, succeeding Gerhard Schröder. This marks a significant moment in German political history, with Merkel leading a grand coalition government.
11 Oct Suicide Bombings in Tal Afar, Iraq: A devastating terrorist attack occurred in Tal Afar, northwest Iraq, where insurgents conducted multiple suicide bombings, resulting in the tragic loss of over 30 civilian lives. The attack highlighted the ongoing sectarian violence and instability in the region during the Iraq War.
12 Oct Iraq Constitutional Referendum: Iraq holds a critical referendum on its proposed new constitution, with negotiations involving the Iraqi Islamic Party aimed at increasing the likelihood of the constitution's approval.
13 Oct Chechen Rebel Attack on Nalchik: Suspected Chechen separatist rebels launched a coordinated attack against Russian security forces in Nalchik, resulting in multiple casualties and highlighting ongoing tensions in the Caucasus region.
14 Oct SOS Children's Villages Aid Kashmir Earthquake Orphans: Following the devastating 2005 Kashmir earthquake, SOS Children's Villages were designated as temporary custodians of unaccompanied children. The organization will manage a comprehensive family tracing database and provide emergency care for children in Islamabad and six other Kashmir villages.
15 Oct Iraqi Constitutional Referendum: Iraqi citizens participated in a historic referendum to vote on approving the proposed new constitution under heavy security. This was a critical moment in Iraq's post-Saddam political transition, representing a significant step towards democratic governance.
16 Oct Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Escalation: Tensions escalated in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict with multiple violent incidents: an Israeli raid on Jenin resulted in the death of an Islamic Jihad leader, and separate shooting attacks killed three Israeli settlers and seriously injured another.
17 Oct Controversial U.S. Military Operation in Iraq: The U.S. military claimed to have killed 70 insurgents near Ramadi, eastern Iraq. However, local eyewitnesses and photographic evidence suggested that many of those killed were civilians, including at least 18 children and infants, raising serious questions about the operation's conduct.
18 Oct Last Australian WWI Veteran Passes Away: William Evan Allan, the final surviving Australian veteran of the First World War, died at the age of 106, marking the end of an era and closing a significant chapter in Australia's military history.
19 Oct Saddam Hussein Trial Begins: The Iraqi Special Tribunal commenced the historic trial of Saddam Hussein, the former President of Iraq, and seven of his associates. They were charged with crimes against humanity, specifically the murder of 143 Shi'a people in Dujail in 1982. This landmark legal proceeding held significant global importance, with potential consequences including the death penalty if Hussein was convicted.
20 Oct UN Warns of Humanitarian Crisis After Kashmir Earthquake: The UN reported that 500,000 people were cut off from aid assistance following the Kashmir earthquake, which had claimed 79,000 lives. The organization urgently called for increased humanitarian support to prevent further loss of life during the approaching winter.
21 Oct UN Investigator Reveals Hariri Assassination Involvement: UN investigator Detlev Mehlis disclosed that senior Syrian and Lebanese government officials were implicated in the assassination attempt on former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri.
22 Oct 2000th U.S. Military Casualty in Iraq: Staff Sergeant George T. Alexander, Jr. became the 2000th U.S. military casualty in the ongoing conflict in Iraq, symbolizing the significant human cost of the military intervention.
23 Oct Bellview Airlines Flight 210 Crash: A tragic aviation disaster occurred when Bellview Airlines Flight 210 was destroyed shortly after takeoff from Lagos, Nigeria, resulting in no survivors according to the Red Cross.
24 Oct Death of Rosa Parks: Rosa Parks, a pivotal African American civil rights activist, passed away at age 92 in Detroit. Her historic act of refusing to give up her bus seat to a white man in Montgomery, Alabama in 1955 sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott and became a defining moment in the modern U.S. civil rights movement. Parks was a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom and is remembered as a symbol of peaceful resistance against racial segregation.
25 Oct Rosa Parks Passes Away: Civil rights icon Rosa Parks died at age 92, commemorating her historic act of resistance 50 years earlier when she refused to give up her bus seat to a white man in Montgomery, Alabama, a pivotal moment in the American Civil Rights Movement.
26 Oct Controversial Speech by Iranian President: At the "World Without Zionism" conference in Tehran, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad made a provocative statement calling for Israel to be "wiped off the map" and condemning the peace process.
27 Oct Sectarian Violence in Iraq: A Sunni Arab ambush in Nahrawan, southeast Baghdad, resulted in the deaths of at least 20 Shia militia members and Iraqi Police officers, underscoring the ongoing sectarian conflict in the region.
28 Oct EU Proposes Significant Agricultural Trade Reforms: Peter Mandelson, the European Union's trade commissioner, proposed a dramatic reduction in farm tariffs: a 47% average reduction and 60% cut in highest rates. However, French President Jacques Chirac expressed opposition to the proposal.
29 Oct Hurricane Sandy Impacts US East Coast: Hurricane Sandy, a Category 2 storm, made landfall on the US eastern seaboard, causing extensive damage estimated at $50 billion. The hurricane was one of the most destructive storms in recent US history.
30 Oct Dresden Frauenkirche Reconsecration: The historic Dresden Frauenkirche, which was completely destroyed during the devastating firebombing of Dresden in World War II, was finally reconsecrated after a thirteen-year meticulous rebuilding project. This symbolic reconstruction represents healing and reconciliation in post-war Germany.
31 Oct Delhi Bombings: A tragic terrorist attack in New Delhi during the Hindu festival of Diwali results in at least 62 fatalities, with bombings targeting three crowded market areas, causing widespread shock and mourning.
01 Nov Paris Riots Escalate: The 2005 Paris riots continue for the fifth consecutive night, sparked by the deaths of two Muslim youths from electric shock. Tensions escalate after police fired tear gas into a mosque, leading to families of victims withdrawing from a meeting with Interior Minister Nicolas Sarkozy.
02 Nov CIA Black Sites Exposed: The Washington Post revealed that the Central Intelligence Agency has been operating a network of secret 'black sites' prisons in eight foreign countries, potentially operating illegally without Congressional oversight for four years, holding terrorist suspects in locations including Afghanistan, Thailand, and Eastern European democracies.
03 Nov Sagittarius A*: Supermassive Black Hole Discovery: Scientific confirmation that Sagittarius A*, a compact radio source at the center of the Milky Way, is indeed a supermassive black hole, marking a significant astronomical breakthrough.
04 Nov Paris Suburb Riots Escalate: The 2005 Paris suburb riots continued for the eighth consecutive night, characterized by hundreds of arson attacks and violent confrontations. Police and firefighters were targeted with gunfire, and France was described as being in a state of crisis.
05 Nov Angela Merkel Becomes First Female Chancellor of Germany: Angela Merkel made history by becoming the first female Chancellor of Germany, marking a significant milestone in German political leadership and gender representation in high-level government positions.
06 Nov Evansville Tornado Disaster: A massive F3 tornado measuring over half a mile wide struck near Evansville, Indiana around 2 a.m., causing widespread destruction. More than 20 people were killed and approximately 200 injured in this catastrophic event.
07 Nov China's Aggressive Avian Flu Containment Strategy: Chinese authorities implemented a dramatic nationwide containment strategy against avian influenza by closing all Beijing poultry markets and conducting door-to-door seizures of chickens and ducks. This unprecedented measure demonstrated China's commitment to preventing a potential pandemic.
08 Nov Liberia Elects First Female African President: In a historic presidential runoff election, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf defeats soccer star George Weah, becoming the first woman to be elected president of an African country. She won decisively with 59.4% of the vote against Weah's 40.6%.
09 Nov 2005 Amman Bombings: Three coordinated terrorist attacks targeted the Grand Hyatt Hotel, Radisson SAS Hotel, and Days Inn in Amman, Jordan, killing at least 56 people and injuring 115 more, predominantly Western tourists. The attacks were later claimed by Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, a notorious Al-Qaeda affiliated terrorist leader.
10 Nov Historic Election of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in Liberia: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf defeats George Weah in the Liberian presidential runoff election, becoming the first African woman to be elected as head of state. This landmark moment represents a significant milestone for women's political representation in Africa.
11 Nov Saudi Arabia Joins World Trade Organization: After twelve years of complex negotiations, Saudi Arabia officially becomes a member of the World Trade Organization, signaling a major economic transformation and increased global economic integration.
12 Nov Rabin Assassination Memorial: Tens of thousands gathered in Tel Aviv's Rabin Square to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, a pivotal moment in Israeli political history.
13 Nov 2005 Amman Hotel Bombings: Devastating terrorist attacks in Amman, Jordan, where three simultaneous bombs exploded in popular hotels: Days Inn, Radisson SAS, and Grand Hyatt. The attacks killed 57 people and wounded hundreds. Al-Qaeda in Mesopotamia claimed responsibility, citing Jordan's friendship with the United States.
14 Nov Earthquake and Tsunami off Honshu, Japan: A significant 7.0 magnitude earthquake occurred at 2138 UTC on November 14, 2005, off the east coast of Honshu, Japan. The earthquake generated a tsunami with a maximum wave height of approximately 32 cm, observed at various locations including Ofunato.
15 Nov Gaza Travel Agreement: U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice mediated a landmark agreement between Israelis and the Palestinian Authority, allowing Palestinians to travel in and out of the Gaza Strip with minimal restrictions.
16 Nov US Maintains Internet Governance Control: Despite international opposition, the United States successfully preserves its supervisory authority over the internet through ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers).
17 Nov David Irving Arrested for Holocaust Denial: English historian David Irving was detained in Vienna for violating Austria's strict laws against Holocaust denial, which is considered a criminal offense in the country.
18 Nov Devastating Terrorist Attacks in Iraq: A series of coordinated terrorist attacks struck Iraq, with suicide bombings killing 74 Shia worshippers in two mosques in eastern Iraq. In Baghdad, car bombs targeted a hotel housing foreign journalists and the interior ministry, resulting in eight additional Iraqi deaths. The attacks underscored the ongoing sectarian violence and instability in the region.
19 Nov Maoist Rebels in Nepal Agree to Opposition Alliance: After years of civil conflict that claimed over 12,000 lives since 1996, Maoist rebels from Nepal agreed to join opposition politicians in a united front to challenge King Gyanendra's rule, signaling a potential political breakthrough.
20 Nov Iraq Conflict: Multiple Violent Incidents: A complex day of violence in Iraq involving American-led and insurgent attacks resulted in at least 40 fatalities. Additionally, reports emerged of British-trained Iraqi police torturing civilians using electric drills, and a British soldier was killed by a roadside bomb in Basra.
21 Nov Iraqi Leaders Demand Troop Withdrawal Timeline: A diverse group of Iraqi leaders, including Sunni, Shiite, and Kurdish representatives, signed a statement demanding a specific timetable for the withdrawal of foreign troops from Iraq, signaling growing political consensus.
22 Nov Angela Merkel Becomes First Female Chancellor of Germany: Angela Merkel made history by becoming the first female Chancellor of Germany, representing a significant milestone in German political leadership. A physical chemist from former East Germany, she was elected through a coalition between CDU/CSU and SPD delegates at the Bundestag.
23 Nov Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Confirmed as Liberian President: Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf was officially declared the winner of the Liberian presidential election, receiving 59.4% of the vote. This historic victory established her as Africa's first female elected head of state.
24 Nov Environmental Crisis in Far Eastern Russia: Khabarovsk, Russia declared a state of emergency due to an 80 km benzene oil slick resulting from a Chinese chemical facility explosion. The environmental disaster threatens water supplies for millions in China and Russia, with the contamination approaching the critical Amur River.
25 Nov Ukraine Seeks Recognition of Holodomor as Genocide: Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko called for international recognition of the Holodomor, the devastating man-made famine in Soviet Ukraine during 1932-1933, as an act of genocide. This marked a significant moment in Ukraine's efforts to acknowledge and memorialize this tragic historical event.
26 Nov Palestinian Control of Rafah Crossing: Palestinians assume control of the Rafah crossing connecting the Gaza Strip to Egypt for the first time, a significant moment in regional border management.
27 Nov First Partial Human Facial Transplant: Medical history was made in Amiens, France, with the world's first partial human facial transplant, performed by a team of pioneering surgeons to reconstruct a patient's severely damaged face.
28 Nov Bush Outlines Iraq Strategy: President Bush unveiled his vision for victory in Iraq, rejecting calls from Democrats and some Republicans for a withdrawal timetable, emphasizing continued military commitment.
29 Nov Allegations of Prisoner Treatment Misconduct: Colonel Lawrence Wilkerson, a former senior aide to Secretary of State Colin Powell, accuses Vice President Dick Cheney of not adhering to President Bush's decision regarding prisoner treatment during the war on terror.
30 Nov White House Publishes Iraq Strategy Document: The White House releases the 'National Strategy for Victory in Iraq', outlining the United States' strategic approach and objectives in the ongoing Iraq conflict.
01 Dec South Africa Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: South Africa becomes the fifth country in the world to legally recognize same-sex marriages, marking a significant milestone in LGBTQ+ rights and equality.
02 Dec Pentagon News Manipulation Revelation: The Pentagon acknowledged hiring the Lincoln Group, a U.S. public relations agency, to translate and place soldier-written articles in Iraqi media, raising significant ethical questions about information warfare.
03 Dec Global Climate Change Protest: Approximately 40,000 people protested in Montreal during the United Nations Climate Change Conference, with simultaneous worldwide demonstrations, including one in Hurricane Katrina-devastated New Orleans.
04 Dec CIA Extraordinary Rendition Allegations: A London tabloid reported allegations that the CIA used Scottish airports as part of a covert operation to transfer terrorist suspects to secret prison camps across Europe, involving Edinburgh Airport, Glasgow Prestwick, and Glasgow International.
05 Dec First Witnesses Testify in Saddam Hussein Trial: In a landmark legal proceeding, the first witnesses in the trial of former Iraqi president Saddam Hussein provide testimony, revealing horrifying details of systematic torture during his regime, marking a significant moment in international justice.
06 Dec Saddam Hussein Refuses Trial Appearance: Saddam Hussein, the deposed president of Iraq, refused to appear at his trial for crimes against humanity, further complicating the already complex legal proceedings and highlighting the ongoing political tensions in post-Saddam Iraq.
07 Dec Paul Martin Criticizes U.S. Climate Policy: At the Montreal climate change conference, Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin delivered a pointed critique of the United States' environmental stance. His remarks, including the statement about a 'global conscience', reportedly angered Vice President Dick Cheney and highlighted international tensions around climate policy.
08 Dec Hamas Ceasefire Announcement and Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: Hamas leader Khaled Mashal announced at a rally in Damascus, Syria, that the informal ceasefire with Israel would not be renewed at year's end. Simultaneously, two Palestinian militants were killed in an Israeli airstrike in the Gaza Strip, and an Israeli soldier was fatally stabbed at a West Bank checkpoint, underscoring the ongoing tensions in the region.
09 Dec Dongzhou Protest Crackdown in China: Chinese security forces reportedly killed protesting farmers and fishermen in Dongzhou, Guangdong province. Protesters were opposing government plans to build a power plant and fill part of the bay. This was considered the most significant violent government action against civilians since the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, with the town subsequently being closed off.
10 Dec 2005 Nobel Prize Ceremony: The Nobel Prizes for various disciplines are awarded in Stockholm, recognizing outstanding achievements in Medicine, Physics, Chemistry, Economics, and Literature. Notable recipients include Barry J. Marshall, Robin Warren, Roy J. Glauber, and John L. Hall.
11 Dec Cronulla Riots: A significant racial conflict erupted in Sydney, Australia, involving approximately 5,000 youths. The riots represented a complex and volatile moment of ethnic tension, with widespread demonstrations and violent confrontations between different community groups.
12 Dec Assassination of Gebran Tueni: Gebran Tueni, a prominent Lebanese anti-Syrian parliament member and managing editor of the liberal An-Nahar newspaper, was killed in a car bombing attack in Beirut. Having been in Paris for months due to security concerns, Tueni had recently returned to Lebanon. This assassination followed a similar car bomb attack in June that killed another An-Nahar journalist, Samir Kaassir.
13 Dec Bush Acknowledges Iraqi Civilian Casualties: President George W. Bush publicly recognized approximately 30,000 civilian deaths in Iraq since the war's beginning, highlighting the conflict's human cost.
14 Dec Bush Acknowledges Faulty Intelligence for Iraq Invasion: U.S. President George W. Bush publicly acknowledged that the 2003 Iraq invasion was based on faulty intelligence, accepting responsibility while maintaining the decision's justification.
15 Dec Iraq's First Parliamentary Elections Under New Constitution: The first parliamentary elections were held in Iraq under its newly established federal constitution, marking a significant milestone in the country's post-Saddam democratic transition.
16 Dec Senate Rejects PATRIOT Act Extension: The United States Senate rejected the extension of the PATRIOT Act, with critics arguing that the legislation violated civil liberties and granted excessive governmental powers.
17 Dec Incident in Gaza Strip: A car carrying Khaled Abu Sitta exploded in the Gaza Strip, with conflicting reports about the cause. Palestinian sources claimed an Israeli air strike, while the Israeli Defense Force admitted to bombing roads, bridges, and shooting a suspect, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
18 Dec Democratic Republic of Congo Holds Historic Election: The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) holds its first democratic national poll in over 40 years, marking a crucial moment in the country's political development and potential path to stability.
19 Dec Voyager 1 Reaches Solar System's Edge: NASA's Voyager 1 spacecraft reaches the outer boundary of our Solar System, marking a significant milestone in space exploration and humanity's furthest direct exploration of our cosmic neighborhood.
20 Dec Intelligent Design Court Ruling: In the landmark Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District case, US District Court Judge John E. Jones III ruled that intelligent design cannot be taught as science in public school classrooms, affirming it as a religious concept rather than a scientific theory.
21 Dec US Senate Extends PATRIOT Act: The United States Senate approved a six-month extension of the USA PATRIOT Act, allowing further legislative review and potential modifications.
22 Dec Tony Blair's Iraq Troop Withdrawal Visit: British Prime Minister Tony Blair made a surprise visit to Basra, Iraq, addressing 4,000 British soldiers and discussing potential troop withdrawal strategies based on Iraqi forces' readiness.
23 Dec U.S. Troop Drawdown in Iraq: U.S. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld announced the first in a series of troop withdrawals following the Iraqi elections, signaling a potential shift in U.S. military strategy.
24 Dec Chad Declares War on Sudan: Chad officially declared a state of war against Sudan following a devastating attack on Adré on December 18, which resulted in approximately 100 fatalities, escalating tensions in the volatile border region.
25 Dec Horrific Familial Murder in Pakistan: Nazir Ahmad, a Pakistani laborer, confessed to murdering his four daughters aged 4, 8, 12, and 25, allegedly in response to his eldest daughter Muqadas Bibi marrying against his will. This tragic event highlights issues of honor killings and gender-based violence.
26 Dec 2004 Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunami: A catastrophic magnitude 9.3 earthquake struck the Indian Ocean seafloor, triggering massive tsunami waves that devastated shorelines across multiple countries including Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, and Somalia. This was one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history.
27 Dec Colombian Soldiers Killed During Coca Eradication Mission: Twenty-four Colombian soldiers protecting coca eradication workers were killed by rebel forces, highlighting the ongoing violent conflict between government forces and insurgent groups in the region.
28 Dec Giove-A Satellite Launch: Europe launched Giove-A, a satellite for the Galileo positioning system, designed to provide independent location and timing information, reducing dependence on the U.S. GPS system.
29 Dec Terrorist Attack at West Bank Checkpoint: A suicide bomber targeted a checkpoint near Tulkarm in the West Bank, killing one Israeli soldier, two civilians, and himself. The attack was claimed by Islamic Jihad. Additionally, al-Qaeda in Iraq claimed responsibility for recent Katyusha rocket attacks on northern Israeli towns.
30 Dec Citigroup Acquires Stake in Chinese Bank: A consortium led by Citigroup successfully secured an 85% ownership stake in Guangdong Development Bank in China, outbidding a European-based rival group. This transaction represented a significant moment in international banking and cross-border financial investments.
31 Dec Shane Warne Cricket Milestone: Australian cricket legend Shane Warne became the first cricketer in history to take 1,000 international wickets, a remarkable achievement in the sport's record books.

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