1987 Wars & Armed Conflicts Events — Verified Historical Highlights
1987 Wars & Armed Conflicts Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 09 Jan China and Vietnam engage in border clashes with significant casualties: In early January 1987, intense fighting erupted along the Sino-Vietnamese border, marking the heaviest clashes since the 1979 Sino-Vietnamese War. Both nations reported substantial casualties, with China claiming to have killed or wounded over 500 Vietnamese troops, while Vietnam reported nearly 500 Chinese soldiers killed or wounded. The confrontations were centered around the Laoshan area in Yunnan Province, China, and Ha Tuyen Province, Vietnam. source: upi.com
- 12 Jan Prince Edward resigns from Royal Marines after four months of training: Prince Edward, the youngest son of Queen Elizabeth II, resigned from the Royal Marines on January 12, 1987, after completing four months of a rigorous one-year officer training course. Buckingham Palace stated that Edward left with great regret but concluded he did not wish to make the service his long-term career. His father, Prince Philip, was reportedly displeased with the decision. source: theguardian.com
- 15 Jan Hu Yaobang's resignation as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party: On January 15, 1987, Hu Yaobang resigned as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party following student demonstrations advocating for political and economic liberalization. His perceived leniency towards these protests led to his ousting, and he was succeeded by Zhao Ziyang. source: washingtonpost.com
- 23 Jan Japan increases military spending above 1% of GDP: On January 23, 1987, Japan's defense budget surpassed the 1% of Gross National Product (GNP) threshold for the first time since World War II. This decision marked a significant shift in Japan's post-war defense policy, reflecting a response to domestic and international pressures. The move was part of a broader budget plan that also aimed to reduce Japan's trade surplus and increase its support for U.S. military bases. source: washingtonpost.com
- 24 Jan Abduction of four professors from Beirut University College in Lebanon: On January 24, 1987, four professors—three Americans and one Indian—from Beirut University College were abducted in West Beirut. The Islamic Jihad for the Liberation of Palestine claimed responsibility for the kidnapping. The hostages were eventually released, with Mithal Eshwar Singh being freed on October 3, 1988. source: reaganlibrary.gov
- 25 Jan West Germany parliamentary elections held on January 25, 1987: The parliamentary elections in West Germany took place on January 25, 1987. The elections were significant as they resulted in the re-election of Chancellor Helmut Kohl and his Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party, which maintained a coalition with the Free Democratic Party (FDP). This election was marked by debates over economic policies and the Cold War context of the time. source: britannica.com
- 28 Jan US Secretary of State George Shultz meets ANC leader Oliver Tambo: On January 28, 1987, U.S. Secretary of State George Shultz met with African National Congress (ANC) President Oliver Tambo in Washington, D.C. This marked the first meeting between a U.S. Secretary of State and an ANC leader, symbolizing a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy towards South Africa's anti-apartheid movement. The discussions focused on apartheid, violence, and the need for negotiations between the South African government and the ANC. source: washingtonpost.com
- 27 Feb Donald T. Regan resigns as White House Chief of Staff; Howard H. Baker Jr. appointed as successor: On February 27, 1987, President Ronald Reagan accepted the resignation of White House Chief of Staff Donald T. Regan, effective immediately. Regan had served as Chief of Staff since February 1985 and as Secretary of the Treasury from 1981 to 1985. He was succeeded by former Senate Majority Leader Howard H. Baker Jr., who had been a close friend and adviser to President Reagan. Baker was expected to assume his new responsibilities early the following week. source: reaganlibrary.gov
- 04 Mar Reagan acknowledges arms-for-hostages swap in Iran-Contra affair: On March 4, 1987, President Ronald Reagan addressed the nation, admitting that his administration had traded arms for American hostages in Iran. He stated, "It was a mistake," and took full responsibility for the actions, acknowledging that the initiative conflicted with his policy of not negotiating with terrorists. Reagan also addressed the diversion of funds to Nicaraguan rebels, asserting he was unaware of the practice but accepted responsibility as president. source: washingtonpost.com
- 08 Mar Claude Dallas Jr. captured by FBI agents in Riverside, California: Claude Lafayette Dallas Jr., wanted for the deaths of two game wardens in Idaho, was arrested by FBI agents in Riverside, California, on March 8, 1987, while leaving a convenience store. source: fbi.gov
- 19 Apr Maxwell D. Taylor dies at 85: Maxwell D. Taylor, a distinguished U.S. Army general and diplomat, passed away on April 19, 1987, at the age of 85. He was renowned for his leadership during World War II, notably commanding the 101st Airborne Division during the D-Day invasion. Post-war, he served as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and as Ambassador to South Vietnam. source: washingtonpost.com
- 21 Apr Colombo central bus station bombing: On April 21, 1987, a car bomb exploded at Colombo's main bus terminal during rush hour, killing at least 113 people and injuring over 200. The attack was attributed to Tamil separatist groups, including the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the Eelam Revolutionary Organisation of Students (EROS). The bombing was one of the deadliest incidents in the Sri Lankan Civil War, leading to retaliatory air strikes by the Sri Lankan government. source: news.bbc.co.uk
- 27 Apr US bars Kurt Waldheim from entry over Nazi past: On April 27, 1987, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that Austrian President Kurt Waldheim was barred from entering the United States due to evidence of his involvement in Nazi war crimes during World War II. This marked the first time a sitting head of state was denied entry to the U.S. The decision was based on findings that Waldheim participated in the persecution of individuals based on race, religion, national origin, or political opinion. source: latimes.com
- 09 May LOT Polish Airlines Flight 5055 crashes in Warsaw, killing all 183 on board: On May 9, 1987, LOT Polish Airlines Flight 5055, an Ilyushin Il-62M aircraft, crashed in the Kabaty Woods nature reserve near Warsaw, Poland, shortly after takeoff. All 183 passengers and crew perished. The accident was caused by the disintegration of an engine shaft due to faulty bearings, leading to engine failure, onboard fire, and loss of flight control systems. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 17 May USS Stark missile attack by Iraq: On May 17, 1987, the USS Stark, a U.S. Navy frigate, was struck by two Exocet missiles fired by an Iraqi fighter jet during the Iran-Iraq War. The attack resulted in the deaths of 37 crew members and significant damage to the ship. This incident raised tensions in the Gulf region and highlighted the risks faced by U.S. naval forces in the area. source: nytimes.com
- 08 Jun New Zealand establishes nuclear-free zone: On June 8, 1987, New Zealand passed the Nuclear Free Zone, Disarmament, and Arms Control Act, declaring the country a nuclear-free zone. This legislation prohibits nuclear weapons and nuclear-powered vessels from entering New Zealand waters, reflecting the nation's strong anti-nuclear stance. The move was significant in the context of global nuclear disarmament efforts during the Cold War. source: britannica.com
- 10 Jun June Democratic Struggle in South Korea: The June Democratic Struggle was a nationwide pro-democracy movement in South Korea that took place from June 10 to 29, 1987. The demonstrations led to the establishment of the Sixth Republic, marking a significant shift towards democracy in the country. source: Wikipedia (day-month pages)
- 12 Jun Reagan challenges Gorbachev to 'tear down' Berlin Wall: On June 12, 1987, President Ronald Reagan delivered a speech near the Brandenburg Gate in West Berlin, urging Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to "tear down this wall," referring to the Berlin Wall dividing East and West Berlin. This call was a significant moment in the Cold War, symbolizing the U.S. demand for the end of the wall and greater freedom for East Germans. The Berlin Wall fell on November 9, 1989, leading to German reunification on October 3, 1990. source: britannica.com
- 25 Jun Pope John Paul II meets Austrian President Kurt Waldheim amid protests: On June 25, 1987, Pope John Paul II held a 35-minute private audience with Austrian President Kurt Waldheim at the Vatican. The meeting was controversial due to allegations that Waldheim was involved in Nazi war crimes during World War II, leading to protests from Jewish groups outside St. Peter's Square. Despite the protests, the Pope praised Waldheim as a diplomat dedicated to securing peace. source: washingtonpost.com
- 28 Jun Chemical weapons attack on Sardasht, Iran: On June 28, 1987, during the Iran–Iraq War, Iraqi aircraft dropped mustard gas bombs on the city of Sardasht in West Azerbaijan province, Iran. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 110 civilians and injured approximately 8,000 others. Many survivors continue to suffer from long-term health issues due to the chemical exposure. source: opcw.org
- 30 Jun Reagan nominates Robert Bork to Supreme Court: On June 30, 1987, President Ronald Reagan nominated Robert Bork to the Supreme Court of the United States. Bork's nomination was highly controversial and led to a significant Senate confirmation battle, ultimately resulting in his rejection by the Senate. This event marked a pivotal moment in the history of Supreme Court nominations and the political landscape surrounding judicial appointments. source: archives.gov
- 01 Jul Single European Act passed by the European Community: The Single European Act was signed on February 17, 1986, and came into force on July 1, 1987. It aimed to create a single internal market within the European Community by 1992, enhancing economic integration and cooperation among member states. This act marked a significant step towards European integration, laying the groundwork for the European Union as we know it today. source: europarl.europa.eu
- 05 Jul LTTE's first suicide attack: Birth of the Black Tigers: On July 5, 1987, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) conducted their first suicide attack during the Battle of Nelliady. Captain Miller, an LTTE member, drove a truck laden with explosives into a Sri Lankan Army camp in Nelliady, Jaffna District, resulting in the deaths of at least 40 soldiers. This operation marked the inception of the Black Tigers, an elite LTTE unit specializing in suicide missions. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 20 Jul UN Security Council Resolution 598 on Iran-Iraq War: On July 20, 1987, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 598, calling for an immediate ceasefire between Iran and Iraq, the repatriation of prisoners of war, and the withdrawal of forces to internationally recognized borders. The resolution also requested the UN Secretary-General to dispatch observers to monitor the ceasefire. Iraq accepted the resolution promptly, but Iran did not agree until July 1988, leading to the cessation of hostilities on August 8, 1988. source: peacemaker.un.org
- 22 Jul Gorbachev proposes eliminating some nuclear missiles: On July 22, 1987, Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev announced Moscow's readiness to eliminate all medium-range nuclear missiles in Asia, contingent upon the United States renouncing its right to deploy 100 warheads on its territory. This proposal aimed to eliminate all Soviet and American intermediate-range missiles deployed in Europe and Asia, marking a significant policy shift in arms control negotiations. source: washingtonpost.com
- 24 Jul US Supertanker SS Bridgeton collides with mine in 1987: On July 24, 1987, the US supertanker SS Bridgeton collided with a mine in the Persian Gulf, which had been laid during the Iran-Iraq War. The incident caused significant damage to the vessel but fortunately resulted in no casualties. This event highlighted the dangers of maritime navigation in conflict zones during that period. source: britannica.com
- 07 Aug Central American Peace Accord signed in 1987: The Central American Peace Accord, also known as the Esquipulas Peace Agreement, was signed on August 7, 1987, in Guatemala. This agreement aimed to promote peace and democracy in Central America, particularly addressing conflicts in Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Guatemala. It was a significant step towards resolving civil wars and fostering regional stability. source: un.org
- 11 Aug France and Britain deploy minesweepers to Persian Gulf: On August 11, 1987, Britain and France announced the deployment of minesweepers to the Persian Gulf to protect their naval ships and merchant vessels from increasing mine threats. Britain decided to send four Hunt-class minesweepers and a support ship to reinforce the Armilla Patrol, which had been escorting British-flagged tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. France ordered two minesweepers to join a four-ship battle group en route to the Gulf of Oman. Both countries emphasized that their operations would be separate from U.S. naval activities in the region. source: washingtonpost.com
- 15 Aug Hungerford massacre occurred in the UK on August 15, 1987: The Hungerford massacre took place on August 15, 1987, in Hungerford, England, when a gunman killed 16 people and injured 15 others before taking his own life. It was one of the deadliest mass shootings in British history, leading to significant changes in gun control laws in the UK. The incident raised awareness about gun violence and prompted discussions on public safety and mental health. source: bbc.com
- 07 Sep Netherlands deploys minesweepers to Persian Gulf: On September 7, 1987, the Netherlands dispatched two minesweepers to the Persian Gulf to join European efforts in clearing mines and ensuring safe navigation. This deployment was part of a broader initiative by European nations, including Belgium and Italy, to protect shipping lanes during the Iran–Iraq War. The Dutch ships, Maassluis, Hellevoetsluis, and Urk, operated under Belgian command as part of the Western European Union's mine-clearing operation. source: upi.com
- 15 Sep US-Soviet Nuclear Risk Reduction Treaty signed: On September 15, 1987, the United States and the Soviet Union signed the Nuclear Risk Reduction Treaty in Washington, D.C. This treaty aimed to reduce the risk of nuclear war by establishing communication channels and protocols to prevent misunderstandings during crises. It was a significant step in arms control during the Cold War era. source: state.gov
- 18 Sep US and Soviet Union sign Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty: On September 18, 1987, the United States and the Soviet Union signed the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, which eliminated all intermediate-range and shorter-range missiles. This landmark agreement marked a significant de-escalation in Cold War tensions and was a pivotal moment in arms control history. The treaty was a result of years of negotiations and aimed to enhance global security by reducing the nuclear threat in Europe. source: state.gov
- 19 Sep Einar Gerhardsen, former Norwegian Prime Minister, dies at 90: Einar Gerhardsen, who served as Norway's Prime Minister for a total of 17 years, passed away on September 19, 1987, in Oslo at the age of 90. He was instrumental in rebuilding Norway after World War II and was known as the 'Father of the Nation.' source: washingtonpost.com
- 21 Sep Belgium deploys minesweepers to Persian Gulf: On September 21, 1987, Belgium sent three minesweepers to the Persian Gulf to join a multinational naval task force ensuring the security of maritime traffic during the Iran-Iraq War. This deployment was part of a broader European effort to protect shipping lanes in the region. source: washingtonpost.com
- 12 Oct Costa Rican President Oscar Arias wins Nobel Peace Prize: Oscar Arias, the President of Costa Rica, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on October 12, 1987, for his efforts to promote peace in Central America. His work focused on resolving conflicts in the region and fostering dialogue among nations. The award recognized his commitment to diplomacy and non-violence during a time of significant political turmoil. source: britannica.com
- 13 Oct Oscar Arias Sánchez awarded Nobel Peace Prize for Central American peace plan: Costa Rican President Oscar Arias Sánchez received the 1987 Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to end civil wars in Central America. His peace plan, signed by Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua in August 1987, aimed for free elections, human rights safeguards, and an end to foreign interference. source: britannica.com
- 15 Oct U.S. Military Action in Persian Gulf: U.S. naval forces destroy two Iranian oil platforms in the Persian Gulf, escalating tensions in the region during the Iran-Iraq War.
- 21 Oct Jaffna Hospital Massacre during Sri Lankan Civil War: On October 21 and 22, 1987, during the Sri Lankan Civil War, Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) troops entered the Jaffna Teaching Hospital in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, resulting in the deaths of 60 to 70 patients and staff. The IPKF claimed they were fired upon from inside the hospital, leading to a crossfire. However, the Sri Lankan government, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), and independent observers have described the incident as a massacre of civilians. Eyewitness accounts detail indiscriminate firing and grenade explosions by IPKF soldiers, leading to numerous fatalities among hospital staff and patients. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 07 Nov Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty signed: The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty was signed on November 7, 1987, by U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev. This landmark agreement eliminated an entire class of nuclear weapons, specifically ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 kilometers. The treaty marked a significant step in reducing Cold War tensions and was a pivotal moment in arms control history. source: state.gov
- 30 Nov Major earthquake jolts Alaska: On November 30, 1987, a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the Gulf of Alaska, approximately 300 miles southeast of Anchorage. The quake knocked out power in Yakutat and prompted tsunami warnings for coastal areas. The Los Angeles Times reported on the event, noting its significant impact on the region. source: latimes.com
- 03 Dec Illinois Statehood: Illinois was admitted as the 21st state of the United States of America, expanding the nation's territorial boundaries and contributing to the westward expansion of the country.
- 07 Dec Gorbachev's US Summit Visit: On December 7, 1987, Soviet General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev arrived in Washington, D.C., for a summit with U.S. President Ronald Reagan. The primary focus was the signing of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, which eliminated an entire class of nuclear missiles. The summit also addressed regional conflicts and human rights issues. Gorbachev's visit marked a significant step in U.S.-Soviet relations during the Cold War. source: reaganlibrary.gov
- 16 Dec Roh Tae-woo wins South Korean presidential election: On December 16, 1987, Roh Tae-woo, candidate of the ruling Democratic Justice Party, won South Korea's first direct presidential election in 16 years, securing 36.6% of the vote. His main opponents, Kim Young-sam and Kim Dae-jung, received 28.0% and 27.0%, respectively. Roh's victory marked a significant step toward democratization in South Korea. source: washingtonpost.com
- 21 Dec Three youths convicted of manslaughter in Howard Beach attack: On December 21, 1987, three white youths—Jon Lester, Scott Kern, and Jason Ladone—were convicted of second-degree manslaughter and first-degree assault in the death of Michael Griffith, a 23-year-old Black man. Griffith was fatally struck by a car after being chased and beaten by the youths in the Howard Beach neighborhood of Queens, New York, on December 20, 1986. The incident heightened racial tensions in the city and led to widespread protests. source: washingtonpost.com
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