1979 Elections & Political Transitions Events — Verified Historical Highlights
1979 Elections & Political Transitions Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 07 Feb Chadli Bendjedid elected President of Algeria: On February 7, 1979, Chadli Bendjedid was elected unopposed as President of Algeria, succeeding the late Houari Boumédiène. Bendjedid, a former military officer and member of the National Liberation Front (FLN), received 99.4% of the vote in a referendum following Boumédiène's death in December 1978. source: britannica.com
- 18 Feb Bangladesh Nationalist Party wins 1979 general election: On February 18, 1979, Bangladesh held its second general election, resulting in a victory for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which secured 207 of the 300 seats in the Jatiya Sangsad. The Awami League became the main opposition party with 39 seats. Voter turnout was 51.29%. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 19 Feb Kaiser Matanzima elected President of Transkei: On February 19, 1979, Kaiser Daliwonga Matanzima was elected President of Transkei, succeeding his brother, Kaiser Matanzima, who had served as Prime Minister since 1979. The election was conducted by the Transkei Congress Party (TCP), the ruling party at the time. source: washingtonpost.com
- 01 Mar Scottish devolution referendum held on March 1, 1979: On March 1, 1979, Scotland held a referendum to decide on the establishment of a Scottish Assembly under the Scotland Act 1978. While 51.6% of voters supported the proposal, the turnout was 63.7%, meaning only 32.9% of the total electorate voted in favor. Due to a stipulation in the Act requiring at least 40% of the electorate to approve, the proposal was not implemented, and the Act was subsequently repealed. source: bbc.com
- 18 Mar Finnish parliamentary elections held on March 18, 1979: The Finnish parliamentary elections took place on March 18, 1979. These elections were significant as they determined the composition of the Finnish Parliament, influencing the country's political landscape. The elections resulted in a coalition government, reflecting the diverse political views within Finland at the time. source: britannica.com
- 28 Mar Margaret Thatcher's motion leads to Labour government defeat: On March 28, 1979, Conservative leader Margaret Thatcher introduced a motion of no confidence against Prime Minister James Callaghan's Labour government. The motion passed by a single vote, 311 to 310, leading to the government's defeat and the calling of a general election. This marked the first time since 1924 that a government was ousted through a no-confidence vote in the House of Commons. source: washingtonpost.com
- 01 Apr Iran officially becomes an Islamic Republic: On April 1, 1979, Iran was declared an Islamic Republic following a referendum in which the majority of voters supported the establishment of a theocratic government. This marked a significant shift from the previous monarchy under Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, leading to the establishment of a political system based on Islamic principles and governance. source: britannica.com
- 06 Apr Student protests in Nepal: On April 6, 1979, students in Kathmandu protested against the execution of former Pakistani Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. The demonstration escalated into violent clashes with police, leading to multiple arrests and injuries. This event marked the beginning of a series of student-led protests that eventually forced the monarchy to hold a referendum on the multiparty system. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 09 Apr Jane Byrne becomes first female mayor of Chicago: On April 9, 1979, Jane Byrne was elected as the first female mayor of Chicago, marking a significant milestone in the city's political history. Her tenure was noted for various reforms and initiatives aimed at improving the city, particularly in areas like housing and public safety. Byrne's election represented a breakthrough for women in politics, inspiring future generations of female leaders. source: chicagotribune.com
- 16 Apr Jane Byrne becomes first female mayor of Chicago: On April 16, 1979, Jane Byrne was inaugurated as the 50th mayor of Chicago, becoming the first woman to hold the position. She won the 1979 Chicago mayoral election on April 3, 1979, defeating incumbent Michael Bilandic with 82.1% of the vote, marking the largest vote share in Chicago mayoral election history at that time. source: washingtonpost.com
- 22 Apr 1979 Thai general election: On April 22, 1979, Thailand held general elections for all 301 seats in the House of Representatives. The Social Action Party, led by Kukrit Pramoj, emerged as the largest party, securing 82 seats with 21.26% of the vote. The Democrat Party, led by Seni Pramoj, won 33 seats with 14.57% of the vote. Despite the Social Action Party's victory, General Kriangsak Chomanand, an independent politician, retained his position as Prime Minister. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 24 Apr Rhodesian Bishop Muzorewa wins general election: In April 1979, Bishop Abel Muzorewa's United African National Council (UANC) secured 51 of the 100 seats in Rhodesia's House of Assembly, leading to his appointment as the country's first black prime minister. The election was part of the Internal Settlement aimed at transitioning Rhodesia to majority rule, though it faced criticism for not being fully inclusive. source: washingtonpost.com
- 03 May Margaret Thatcher becomes first female British Prime Minister: On May 3, 1979, Margaret Thatcher was elected as the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Leading the Conservative Party, she won a decisive victory in the general election, marking a significant moment in British political history. Thatcher's leadership would last until 1990, during which she implemented numerous economic and social reforms. source: bbc.com
- 04 May Margaret Thatcher becomes UK Prime Minister: Margaret Thatcher was elected as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on May 4, 1979, after her Conservative Party won a decisive victory in the general election. She became the first woman to hold the office and served until 1990, implementing significant economic and social reforms during her tenure. Her leadership style and policies, often referred to as 'Thatcherism,' had a lasting impact on British politics. source: bbc.com
- 10 May Federated States of Micronesia establishes self-governance: On May 10, 1979, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) ratified its Constitution, marking the establishment of its self-governance. This followed a 1978 referendum where the Constitution was approved by the districts of Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei, and Yap, while the Marshall Islands and Palau chose not to participate, leading to their separate political paths. The FSM's Constitution entered into force on May 10, 1979, and the first Congress convened on the same day, electing Tosiwo Nakayama as the nation's first President. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 22 May 1979 Canadian federal election results in Conservative victory: On May 22, 1979, the Progressive Conservative Party, led by Joe Clark, won 136 seats in the Canadian federal election, forming a minority government. Despite the Liberal Party securing 40.11% of the popular vote, the Conservatives achieved a plurality in seats. This election marked the end of 16 years of Liberal governance under Pierre Trudeau. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 23 May Karl Carstens elected President of West Germany: On May 23, 1979, Karl Carstens was elected as the fifth President of the Federal Republic of Germany, defeating Social Democratic candidate Annemarie Renger in the first ballot. Carstens, a member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), served as President from July 1, 1979, to June 30, 1984. source: washingtonpost.com
- 29 May Bishop Abel Muzorewa becomes Prime Minister of Zimbabwe Rhodesia: On May 29, 1979, Bishop Abel Muzorewa was sworn in as Prime Minister of Zimbabwe Rhodesia, following the April 1979 elections. Despite the election, the international community, including the United Nations and the Organization of African Unity, did not recognize the new government, considering it a continuation of white minority rule. This led to ongoing conflict until the Lancaster House Agreement in December 1979, which paved the way for internationally recognized independence in 1980. source: stepbystep.com
- 03 Jun 1979 Italian general election: The 1979 Italian general election was held on June 3, 1979, to elect all 630 seats in the Chamber of Deputies and 315 seats in the Senate. The Christian Democracy (DC) party, led by Benigno Zaccagnini, maintained its position as the largest party, while the Italian Communist Party (PCI), led by Enrico Berlinguer, experienced a significant decline, losing 26 seats in the Chamber of Deputies and 7 in the Senate. The Italian Socialist Party (PSI) and other smaller parties gained seats, reflecting a shift in the Italian political landscape. source: washingtonpost.com
- 04 Jun Joe Clark becomes Canada's 16th prime minister: On June 4, 1979, Joe Clark was sworn in as Canada's 16th prime minister, becoming the youngest in the nation's history at 39. His Progressive Conservative Party formed a minority government after defeating Pierre Trudeau's Liberals in the May 22 federal election. source: washingtonpost.com
- 02 Jul Saint Lucia Labour Party wins 1979 general elections: On July 2, 1979, Saint Lucia held its first general elections since gaining independence in February of that year. The Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), led by Allan Louisy, secured a decisive victory, winning 12 of the 17 seats in the House of Assembly. The United Workers Party (UWP), headed by then-Prime Minister John Compton, won the remaining five seats. Voter turnout was 68.0%. source: sluelectoral.com
- 08 Jul Congo adopts new constitution: On July 8, 1979, the People's Republic of the Congo held a constitutional referendum, resulting in the approval of a new constitution by 96.93% of voters, with a 90.3% turnout. This constitution confirmed the socialist foundations of the country and was adopted alongside legislative elections, where the Congolese Party of Labour won all 153 seats in the People's National Assembly. source: uca.edu
- 09 Jul Ghana's 1979 Presidential Election Runoff: On July 9, 1979, Ghana held a presidential election runoff between Hilla Limann of the People's National Party (PNP) and Victor Owusu of the Popular Front Party (PFP). Limann secured victory with 62% of the vote, leading to his inauguration as President on September 24, 1979. source: washingtonpost.com
- 19 Jul Patricia Harris appointed Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare: On July 19, 1979, President Jimmy Carter appointed Patricia Roberts Harris as Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, making her the first African American woman to serve in a U.S. presidential cabinet. Harris had previously served as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development from 1977 to 1979. source: washingtonpost.com
- 04 Aug Francesco Cossiga forms Italian government: On August 4, 1979, Francesco Cossiga, a member of the Christian Democratic Party, was appointed Prime Minister of Italy. He led a coalition government comprising the Christian Democrats, the Italian Democratic Socialist Party (PSDI), and the Italian Liberal Party (PLI). This government was formed after a period of political instability following the 1979 national elections, marking Italy's 42nd government since the fall of fascism. source: washingtonpost.com
- 10 Aug Ecuador adopts new constitution: On August 10, 1979, Ecuador's new constitution came into effect, marking the country's return to civilian rule after nearly a decade of military dictatorship. The constitution, approved by a referendum on January 15, 1978, introduced significant reforms, including granting citizenship and suffrage to all Ecuadorians over eighteen years of age, including illiterates, and establishing a unicameral Congress. Jaime Roldós Aguilera was inaugurated as president on the same day. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 20 Aug Charan Singh resigns as Prime Minister of India: On August 20, 1979, Charan Singh resigned as Prime Minister of India after just 23 days in office. His government collapsed when Indira Gandhi's Congress Party withdrew support, demanding the withdrawal of criminal cases against her and her son, Sanjay Gandhi. Singh refused, leading to his resignation and the dissolution of the Lok Sabha, resulting in mid-term elections in January 1980. source: reuters.com
- 25 Aug Somalia adopts new constitution: On August 25, 1979, Somalia held a constitutional referendum in which 99.78% of voters approved a new constitution. This constitution replaced the 1961 version and established a one-party state under the Somali Revolutionary Socialist Party, with a presidential system of government. The new constitution was ratified by the Supreme Court and led to the election of a People's Assembly. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 14 Sep Assassination of Afghan President Nur Muhammad Taraki: On September 14, 1979, Afghan President Nur Muhammad Taraki was overthrown and reportedly killed during a coup led by his deputy, Hafizullah Amin. Amin's forces stormed the presidential palace, resulting in a gunfight that led to Taraki's death. Official reports later stated that Taraki died of a severe illness on October 9, 1979, but the circumstances surrounding his death remain a subject of historical debate. source: britannica.com
- 23 Sep Basque separatists assassinate military governor in Spain: On September 23, 1979, gunmen assassinated Brigadier General Lorenzo Gonzalez-Valles y Sanchez, the military governor of Spain's Basque province of Guipuzcoa, in San Sebastian. The Basque separatist organization ETA claimed responsibility for the attack, marking the third murder of a senior military officer in the Basque region within a week. This escalation in violence was believed to be aimed at disrupting an upcoming Basque home-rule referendum scheduled for October 25, 1979. source: washingtonpost.com
- 01 Oct Nigeria adopts new constitution, Alhaji Shagari becomes president: On October 1, 1979, Nigeria adopted a new constitution, transitioning from a parliamentary system to a presidential system. Alhaji Shehu Shagari was inaugurated as the first president under this new framework, marking the commencement of the Second Nigerian Republic. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 06 Nov Masayoshi Ōhira re-elected as Japan's Prime Minister: On November 6, 1979, Masayoshi Ōhira was re-elected as Japan's Prime Minister after a contentious parliamentary session. Despite the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) losing seats in the October 1979 general election, Ōhira secured 138 votes in the 511-member House of Representatives, defeating his rival Takeo Fukuda, who received 121 votes. This outcome followed a period of internal party disputes and factionalism within the LDP. source: washingtonpost.com
- 07 Nov Ted Kennedy announces challenge to President Carter for Democratic nomination: On November 7, 1979, Senator Ted Kennedy formally declared his candidacy for the 1980 Democratic presidential nomination, challenging incumbent President Jimmy Carter. Kennedy's campaign focused on addressing economic issues and criticized Carter's policies, marking a significant moment in Democratic Party politics. source: washingtonpost.com
- 12 Nov Süleyman Demirel forms minority government in Turkey: On November 12, 1979, Süleyman Demirel, leader of the Justice Party (AP), established Turkey's 43rd government as a minority administration. This followed the resignation of Prime Minister Bülent Ecevit after the Republican People's Party's defeat in the 1979 by-elections. Demirel's government, supported by the National Salvation Party (MSP) and the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), aimed to address the country's economic challenges and political instability. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 13 Nov Ronald Reagan announces presidential candidacy: On November 13, 1979, former California Governor Ronald Reagan announced his intention to seek the Republican nomination for President of the United States. In his announcement, Reagan criticized the current administration's economic policies and called for a new direction for the nation. He emphasized the need for tax cuts, a smaller government, and a strong national defense. This marked his third presidential campaign, following unsuccessful bids in 1968 and 1976. source: reaganlibrary.gov
- 02 Dec Iran's 1979 Constitutional Referendum: On December 2 and 3, 1979, Iran held a referendum to approve a new Islamic constitution, which was ratified by 99.5% of voters. The referendum was organized by the Council of the Islamic Revolution after the resignation of the Interim Government. Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini urged citizens to vote, emphasizing the importance of the constitution for the Islamic Republic. The new constitution replaced the 1906 Persian Constitution, establishing Iran as an Islamic republic. source: washingtonpost.com
- 03 Dec Iran adopts new constitution, replacing 1906 version: On December 3, 1979, Iran's new constitution was ratified, replacing the 1906 constitution. The new constitution established Iran as an Islamic Republic, introducing direct elections for the presidency and creating a unicameral parliament. It also required any constitutional changes to go to a referendum. The constitution was adopted by a referendum held on December 2 and 3, 1979, with 99.5% approval from voters. source: wipo.int
- 05 Dec Jack Lynch resigns as Taoiseach of Ireland: On December 5, 1979, Jack Lynch announced his resignation as Taoiseach and leader of Fianna Fáil, citing the need for new leadership and fresh ideas. His decision followed internal party challenges and electoral setbacks, including losses in by-elections and the European Parliament elections. Lynch's resignation led to a leadership contest between Charles Haughey and George Colley, with Haughey ultimately succeeding him as Taoiseach. source: washingtonpost.com
- 11 Dec Rhodesia reverts to British rule: On December 11, 1979, the Parliament of Zimbabwe Rhodesia voted to dissolve itself, effectively ending the country's brief period as an unrecognized state. This action restored British colonial authority, with Lord Soames appointed as governor to oversee the transition until internationally recognized elections could be held. The country was renamed Southern Rhodesia, and the Union Jack was reinstated as the official flag. source: news.bbc.co.uk
- 13 Dec Canadian government falls, leading to a federal election: On December 13, 1979, the Canadian government led by Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau was defeated in a vote of no confidence. This event marked the first time in Canadian history that a sitting government was brought down by a non-confidence motion, leading to a federal election in February 1980. The defeat was primarily due to the opposition parties uniting against the government's policies. source: thecanadianencyclopedia.ca
- 30 Dec Togo holds constitutional referendum and general elections: On December 30, 1979, Togo conducted a constitutional referendum and general elections. The referendum approved a new constitution establishing the Third Togolese Republic, transitioning the country into a presidential republic and a one-party state. The constitution received 99.87% approval from voters, with a 99.4% turnout, and came into effect on January 12, 1980. source: en.wikipedia.org
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