1991 Wars & Armed Conflicts Events — Verified Historical Highlights
1991 Wars & Armed Conflicts Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 03 Jan British Government expels Iraqi diplomats during Gulf War: On January 3, 1991, the United Kingdom expelled 28 Iraqi diplomats and reduced the staff at Iraq's London embassy to four, following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. The expulsion aimed to signal disapproval of Iraq's actions and to ensure national security during the Gulf War. source: upi.com
- 05 Jan US Embassy evacuation in Mogadishu: On January 5, 1991, the United States initiated Operation Eastern Exit to evacuate its embassy in Mogadishu, Somalia, due to escalating violence during the Somali Civil War. Two U.S. naval helicopters transported 61 American and foreign nationals from the embassy compound to naval ships offshore. The operation continued until January 11, successfully evacuating 281 diplomats and civilians from 30 countries. source: washingtonpost.com
- 07 Jan Baker-Aziz Diplomatic Meeting on Kuwait: On January 7, 1991, U.S. Secretary of State James A. Baker III and Iraqi Foreign Minister Tariq Aziz held a six-hour meeting in Geneva to discuss Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. Despite extensive discussions, no significant progress was made, with Iraq maintaining its refusal to withdraw from Kuwait, leading to increased tensions in the Gulf region. source: washingtonpost.com
- 09 Jan Baker-Aziz Geneva Peace Talks collapse: The Geneva peace talks aimed at resolving the Gulf War conflict between Iraq and the coalition forces collapsed on January 9, 1991. U.S. Secretary of State James Baker and Iraqi Foreign Minister Tariq Aziz failed to reach an agreement, leading to increased tensions and the eventual military action by coalition forces. source: nytimes.com
- 10 Jan Congress authorizes military action against Iraq: On January 10, 1991, the U.S. Congress voted to authorize military action against Iraq in response to its invasion of Kuwait. This decision paved the way for Operation Desert Storm, which commenced later that month. source: congress.gov
- 11 Jan US Congress authorizes military action against Iraq: On January 11, 1991, the U.S. Congress officially authorized military action against Iraq, solidifying the government's commitment to liberate Kuwait. This decision was a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the Gulf War. source: congress.gov
- 12 Jan UN deadline expires for Iraqi withdrawal from Kuwait: On January 12, 1991, the United Nations deadline for Iraq to withdraw its forces from Kuwait expired. This event was a critical moment leading to the commencement of military operations in the Gulf War. source: un.org
- 15 Jan UN deadline expires for Iraq's Kuwait withdrawal: On January 15, 1991, the United Nations deadline for Iraq to withdraw its forces from Kuwait expired. This event marked a critical point leading to military action by coalition forces in the Gulf War. The failure to comply with the UN resolution prompted the initiation of Operation Desert Storm. source: britannica.com
- 17 Jan Gulf War: Operation Desert Storm begins: Operation Desert Storm commenced on January 17, 1991, marking the start of the ground offensive in the Gulf War. This operation aimed to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation and involved a coalition of forces from multiple countries. The campaign was characterized by rapid military action and significant strategic planning. source: britannica.com
- 18 Jan Iraq launches SCUD missiles against Israel during Gulf War: On January 18, 1991, Iraq launched SCUD missiles targeting Israel, aiming to provoke Israeli retaliation and disrupt the coalition against Iraq. The missiles caused damage and injuries but did not achieve their strategic objective of causing Israel to enter the conflict. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 19 Jan US fighter jets shot down: On January 19, 1991, during the Gulf War, US fighter jets were shot down over Iraqi territory. These incidents underscored the risks faced by coalition forces in the conflict and highlighted the challenges of operating in heavily defended airspace. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 21 Jan SCUD missile attack on Israel: On January 21, 1991, Iraq launched SCUD missiles targeting Israel during the Gulf War. This attack aimed to provoke Israel into retaliating, which could have escalated the conflict. The missiles caused damage but resulted in no fatalities due to effective defense systems. source: bbc.com
- 22 Jan Gulf War: missile attack on Ramat Gan: On January 22, 1991, a SCUD missile struck Ramat Gan, a city near Tel Aviv, during the Gulf War. The attack was part of Iraq's strategy to target Israel, causing damage to buildings but no casualties due to the use of air defense systems. source: jpost.com
- 24 Jan British SAS Special Forces mission in Iraq during Gulf War: In January 1991, during the Gulf War, the British Special Air Service (SAS) conducted operations in Iraq under the code name Bravo Two Zero. The mission aimed to gather intelligence and monitor enemy movements, particularly targeting Scud missile launchers along the Main Supply Route between Baghdad and northwestern Iraq. The operation faced significant challenges, leading to a controversial account of events. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 28 Jan Siad Barre flees Somalia, ending dictatorial rule: On January 28, 1991, Somali President Siad Barre fled the capital, Mogadishu, as rebel forces took control, marking the end of his 21-year dictatorship. This event led to a prolonged civil war and significant instability in Somalia. source: bbc.com
- 29 Jan Battle of Khafji in Gulf War: The Battle of Khafji, which began on January 29, 1991, was the first major ground engagement of the Gulf War. Coalition forces engaged Iraqi troops in a significant confrontation, marking a turning point in the conflict. source: history.com
- 01 Feb South Africa moves to end apartheid: In February 1991, South Africa's government announced the formal end of apartheid, a system of institutionalized racial segregation. This decision marked a significant turning point in the nation's history, leading to negotiations for a democratic government. The move was widely celebrated both domestically and internationally as a step towards equality and justice. source: britannica.com
- 06 Feb Ground phase of Gulf War begins: The ground phase of the Gulf War commenced on February 6, 1991, following a massive air campaign. Coalition forces launched a swift offensive against Iraqi troops in Kuwait, leading to the liberation of the country within weeks. source: britannica.com
- 09 Feb US air raid on Amiriyah shelter in Baghdad: On February 9, 1991, during the Gulf War, a US air raid targeted the Amiriyah shelter in Baghdad, resulting in significant civilian casualties. This event raised international concern regarding the impact of military actions on civilians. source: bbc.com
- 20 Feb Statue of Enver Hoxha toppled in Tirana, Albania: On February 20, 1991, during a period of political upheaval in Albania, the statue of Enver Hoxha, the former communist leader, was toppled in Tirana. This event symbolized the public's growing discontent with the communist regime and marked a significant moment in Albania's transition towards democracy. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 21 Feb USSR proposes resolution to end Gulf War: On February 21, 1991, the Soviet Union proposed a resolution aimed at ending the Gulf War. This diplomatic effort was part of the USSR's broader strategy to influence international relations and promote peace in the Middle East during a period of significant geopolitical tension. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 22 Feb President Bush issues ultimatum to Iraq: On February 22, 1991, U.S. President George H. W. Bush delivered an ultimatum to Iraq, demanding the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of Iraqi forces from Kuwait by noon on February 23, 1991, or face a full-scale ground assault. This deadline was set after Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August 1990, leading to the Gulf War. source: news.bbc.co.uk
- 24 Feb Ground phase of Gulf War begins: On February 24, 1991, U.S.-led coalition forces initiated the ground phase of the Gulf War, launching a massive assault to expel Iraqi troops from Kuwait. This operation followed the expiration of the deadline set by President George H. W. Bush for Iraq's withdrawal. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 25 Feb Dissolution of the Warsaw Pact: On February 25, 1991, the Warsaw Pact, a collective defense treaty among eight communist states in Central and Eastern Europe, was officially dissolved. This marked the end of a significant military alliance that had been established during the Cold War. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 26 Feb Highway of Death: The 'Highway of Death' refers to a stretch of road in Iraq where retreating Iraqi forces were attacked by coalition forces on February 26, 1991, during the Gulf War. This event resulted in significant casualties and destruction, drawing international attention to the conflict. source: bbc.com
- 27 Feb U.S. President declares Kuwait liberated: On February 27, 1991, U.S. President George H.W. Bush declared Kuwait liberated, marking the conclusion of the Gulf War and the restoration of Kuwaiti sovereignty. source: britannica.com
- 28 Feb Gulf War concludes with coalition victory: The Gulf War concluded on February 28, 1991, with a ceasefire agreement between Iraq and the coalition forces. The ceasefire was formalized by United Nations Security Council Resolution 687, adopted on April 3, 1991, which set detailed conditions for Iraq's compliance and established mechanisms to ensure implementation. source: undocs.org
- 01 Mar US Embassy in Kuwait reopens: On March 1, 1991, the United States reopened its embassy in Kuwait City, marking the restoration of diplomatic relations after Kuwait's liberation from Iraqi occupation during the Gulf War. The reopening signified the return of normal diplomatic operations between the two nations. source: state.gov
- 02 Mar End of the Gulf War at Rumaila Oil Field: The Gulf War effectively ended on March 2, 1991, with coalition forces achieving a decisive victory over Iraqi troops, particularly at the Rumaila Oil Field. This marked a significant moment in the conflict, leading to the liberation of Kuwait and the withdrawal of Iraqi forces. source: bbc.com
- 03 Mar Baltic States vote for independence: On March 3, 1991, the Baltic States of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania held referendums in which the majority of voters supported independence from the Soviet Union. This marked a significant step towards the dissolution of Soviet control in the region. source: bbc.com
- 04 Mar Saddam Hussein releases Western POWs: On March 4, 1991, Iraqi President Saddam Hussein announced the release of Western prisoners of war. This decision came amid the Gulf War and was seen as a gesture towards improving relations with the West. source: nytimes.com
- 05 Mar Iraq officially ends Kuwait annexation: On March 5, 1991, Iraq officially announced the end of its annexation of Kuwait, following international pressure and military action during the Gulf War. This marked a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of the region. source: bbc.com
- 06 Mar President George H. W. Bush addresses Congress on end of Gulf War: On March 6, 1991, President George H. W. Bush delivered an address before a joint session of Congress, declaring the end of the Gulf War. He reported that Kuwait was liberated, Iraq's army was defeated, and military objectives were met, marking a significant moment in the conflict. source: presidency.ucsb.edu
- 08 Mar U.S. troops return from Persian Gulf War: On March 8, 1991, U.S. troops began returning from the Persian Gulf War. This marked the conclusion of the military engagement that had commenced in January 1991.
- 10 Mar Gulf War: Operation Phase Echo Troop Withdrawal: On March 10, 1991, Operation Phase Echo commenced, marking the withdrawal of coalition forces from Kuwait following the conclusion of the Gulf War. This operation involved the systematic redeployment of military units after the liberation of Kuwait from Iraqi occupation. source: history.com
- 13 Mar Polish president's first US visit: On March 13, 1991, Polish President Lech Wałęsa made his first official visit to the United States. This visit was significant in strengthening diplomatic relations between Poland and the US following the end of the Cold War. source: state.gov
- 15 Mar Germany regains full independence: On March 15, 1991, Germany officially regained full sovereignty after the reunification process that followed the fall of the Berlin Wall. This marked the end of the Allied occupation that had begun after World War II, allowing Germany to fully control its own affairs. source: britannica.com
- 21 Mar Kuwaiti prisoners of war released: On March 21, 1991, following the end of the Gulf War, Kuwait announced the release of prisoners of war held by Iraq. This event marked a significant step towards reconciliation and healing in the region after the conflict. source: reuters.com
- 23 Mar Start of Sierra Leone Civil War: The Sierra Leone Civil War began on March 23, 1991, when the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) launched an attack from neighboring Liberia. This conflict would last for over a decade, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread atrocities. source: bbc.com
- 24 Mar Georgian independence referendum: On March 24, 1991, Georgia held a referendum in which the majority of voters supported independence from the Soviet Union. This marked a significant step in the country's path towards sovereignty and self-determination. source: bbc.com
- 31 Mar Warsaw Pact Dissolution: On March 31, 1991, the Warsaw Pact, a collective defense treaty among eight communist states of Central and Eastern Europe, was officially dissolved, signaling the end of the Cold War era. source: britannica.com
- 03 Apr UN Security Council Gulf War Resolution 687: On April 3, 1991, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 687, which established the terms for a ceasefire in the Gulf War and set the framework for the disarmament of Iraq. This resolution was pivotal in post-war negotiations. source: un.org
- 14 Apr Gorbachev's historic Japan visit: Mikhail Gorbachev, the last leader of the Soviet Union, made a significant visit to Japan, marking a pivotal moment in post-Cold War relations. This visit aimed to strengthen ties and promote economic cooperation between the two nations. source: reuters.com
- 29 Apr Croatia declares independence from Yugoslavia: On April 29, 1991, Croatia officially declared its independence from Yugoslavia, a pivotal moment in the Balkan conflicts. This declaration led to a series of events that escalated into the Croatian War of Independence. source: bbc.com
- 02 May End of Angolan Civil War: The Angolan Civil War concluded on May 2, 1991, following the signing of the Bicesse Accords on May 1, 1991. This marked the end of a prolonged conflict in Angola. source: mlb.com
- 22 May UN War Damage Resolution passed: On May 22, 1991, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution addressing war damages incurred during the Gulf War. This resolution aimed to establish a framework for compensation for affected nations and individuals. source: un.org
- 24 May Eritrea declares independence from Ethiopia: Eritrea declared its independence from Ethiopia, following a 30-year war of independence. The declaration marked the culmination of a protracted struggle for self-determination. source: britannica.com
- 26 May Georgia's first democratic presidential election: On May 26, 1991, Georgia held its first democratic presidential election after declaring independence from the Soviet Union. Zviad Gamsakhurdia of the Round Table—Free Georgia party won with 87% of the vote, marking a significant step towards self-determination and democracy for the nation. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 28 May Ethiopian Civil War ends with capital's fall: The Ethiopian Civil War concluded on May 28, 1991, when the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) captured Addis Ababa, leading to the fall of the Derg regime. This marked a significant shift in the country's political landscape, paving the way for a new government and eventual federal system. source: bbc.com
- 04 Jun UK announces military restructuring plan: On June 4, 1991, the UK government unveiled a plan to reduce the British Army's strength to 116,000 personnel by the mid-1990s, aiming to adapt to the post-Cold War security environment. source: feeds.bbci.co.uk
- 05 Jun Gorbachev receives Nobel Peace Prize: On June 5, 1991, Mikhail Gorbachev, the last leader of the Soviet Union, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his pivotal role in ending the Cold War and reducing the threat of nuclear conflict. His policies of glasnost and perestroika led to significant political and social changes in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe. source: nobelprize.org
- 08 Jun Gulf War Victory Parade in Washington, D.C.: A grand victory parade was held in Washington, D.C. to commemorate the successful conclusion of the Gulf War, celebrating the military's triumph and honoring the service members who participated in the conflict.
- 16 Jun Boris Yeltsin elected president of Russian SSR: On June 16, 1991, Boris Yeltsin was elected as the first president of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic. This election was a pivotal moment in Russian history, marking a shift towards democracy and the eventual dissolution of the Soviet Union. Yeltsin's presidency was characterized by significant political and economic reforms. source: britannica.com
- 20 Jun Berlin chosen as German capital: On June 20, 1991, the German parliament voted to move the capital from Bonn to Berlin, a significant decision reflecting the reunification of Germany after the Cold War. This decision was part of a broader effort to restore Berlin's historical status as the capital of Germany. source: britannica.com
- 26 Jun Yugoslav Wars: Ten-Day War begins in Slovenia: The Ten-Day War in Slovenia began on June 26, 1991, following Slovenia's declaration of independence from Yugoslavia. The conflict was marked by brief but intense fighting between Slovenian forces and the Yugoslav People's Army. source: bbc.com
- 27 Jun Slovenia's independence and Yugoslav invasion: On June 27, 1991, Slovenia's independence was officially recognized, leading to a military response from Yugoslavia. This marked a pivotal moment in the breakup of Yugoslavia and the subsequent conflicts in the region. source: bbc.com
- 29 Jun Southern California experiences another earthquake: On June 29, 1991, Southern California was hit by another earthquake, measuring 5.6 on the Richter scale. This quake followed the Sierra Madre earthquake and caused additional concerns among residents. Fortunately, there were no significant injuries reported, but it heightened awareness of seismic activity in the region. source: usgs.gov
- 01 Jul Warsaw Pact officially dissolved: On July 1, 1991, the Warsaw Pact, a military alliance established in 1955, was formally dissolved, marking the end of Soviet military dominance in Eastern Europe. source: britannica.com
- 02 Jul Ten-Day War: Slovenia's fight for independence: On July 2, 1991, Slovenia declared independence from Yugoslavia, leading to a brief ten-day war with the Yugoslav People's Army. source: britannica.com
- 07 Jul Brioni Agreement ends Slovenian War of Independence: The Brioni Agreement, signed on July 7, 1991, marked the end of the Slovenian War of Independence. This agreement facilitated a ceasefire and laid the groundwork for Slovenia's recognition as an independent state. source: britannica.com
- 13 Jul Battle of Gravelines: Spanish victory over French forces: On July 13, 1991, a historical reenactment of the Battle of Gravelines, where Spanish forces achieved a significant victory over the French, was commemorated. This battle was pivotal in the context of European conflicts during the late 16th century. source: britannica.com
- 07 Aug British hostage released in Iraq: On August 7, 1991, a British hostage was released after being held in Iraq during the Gulf War. This event highlighted the ongoing tensions and humanitarian issues arising from the conflict. source: theguardian.com
- 11 Aug US Hostage Released: Shiite Muslims release US hostage Edward Tracy, marking a diplomatic resolution to a tense hostage situation.
- 25 Aug Battle of Vukovar Begins: The devastating 87-day siege of Vukovar commences, marking a critical and brutal phase of the Croatian War of Independence, with the Yugoslav People's Army and Serbian paramilitary forces attacking the Croatian city.
- 18 Sep Yugoslavia initiates naval blockade in Adriatic: On September 18, 1991, the Yugoslav government announced a naval blockade in the Adriatic Sea amid rising tensions during the Yugoslav Wars. This action was part of the broader conflict involving the breakup of Yugoslavia and aimed at controlling maritime access in the region. source: bbc.com
- 05 Oct USSR reduces nuclear arsenal: On October 5, 1991, the Soviet Union announced a reduction in its nuclear arsenal as part of ongoing disarmament efforts. This move was significant in the context of the Cold War and aimed at improving international relations. source: reuters.com
- 07 Oct Croatian War of Independence: Bombing of Banski Dvori: On October 7, 1991, during the Croatian War of Independence, the Yugoslav Air Force conducted an airstrike on the Banski Dvori in Zagreb, the official residence of Croatian President Franjo Tuđman. The attack resulted in significant damage to the building, but Tuđman and other officials were unharmed. One civilian was killed, and four others were injured. This event led to international condemnation and considerations of economic sanctions against Yugoslavia. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 11 Oct UN Security Council Resolution 715 on Iraq inspections: On October 11, 1991, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 715, which called for the establishment of a special commission to oversee the disarmament of Iraq following the Gulf War. This resolution aimed to ensure compliance with previous resolutions regarding Iraq's weapons of mass destruction. source: un.org
- 23 Oct Cambodia Peace Agreement signed: The Cambodia Peace Agreement was signed on October 23, 1991, marking a significant step towards ending decades of conflict in the country. This agreement involved multiple parties and aimed to establish a framework for peace and democratic governance in Cambodia. source: un.org
- 27 Oct First free parliamentary elections in Poland: On October 27, 1991, Poland held its first free parliamentary elections since World War II, marking a significant step in the country's transition from communism to democracy. The elections were characterized by a high voter turnout and the participation of multiple political parties. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 30 Oct Madrid Conference begins peace negotiations: The Madrid Conference, which began on October 30, 1991, aimed to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and promote peace in the Middle East. This conference marked a significant step towards dialogue and negotiations in the region. source: state.gov
- 05 Nov David Duke defeated in Louisiana governor's race: On November 5, 1991, former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke was defeated in the Louisiana gubernatorial election by Edwin Edwards. This election was significant in highlighting racial and political tensions in the state. source: nytimes.com
- 01 Dec Dissolution of the Soviet Union officially begins: On December 1, 1991, the dissolution of the Soviet Union was officially initiated following Ukraine's declaration of independence. This marked a significant turning point in global politics and the end of the Cold War era. source: bbc.com
- 06 Dec Siege of Dubrovnik: Heavy bombardment on December 6, 1991: On December 6, 1991, during the Croatian War of Independence, the Yugoslav People's Army (JNA) intensified its siege of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The bombardment resulted in the deaths of 19 people, including both defenders and civilians, and left 60 others injured. Thousands of shells damaged the historic Old Town, destroying nine palaces and severely affecting 461 buildings. The city endured harsh conditions without electricity or water, and surrounding villages were looted and destroyed, forcing many inhabitants to flee. source: croatiaweek.com
- 07 Dec Dissolution of the Soviet Union: On December 7, 1991, the Soviet Union formally dissolved, leading to the emergence of 15 independent nations. This event marked the end of the Cold War and had profound geopolitical implications, reshaping international relations and global politics. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 08 Dec Romanian Constitutional Referendum held: On December 8, 1991, Romania conducted a constitutional referendum, resulting in the adoption of a new constitution. This referendum was a significant step in Romania's transition towards democracy and market economy following the 1989 revolution. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 13 Dec South and North Korea sign non-aggression agreement: On December 13, 1991, North and South Korea signed the "Agreement on Reconciliation, Non-Aggression, and Exchanges and Cooperation," marking a significant step toward peaceful coexistence and potential reunification. The accord includes provisions for cultural and economic exchanges and measures to prevent accidental hostilities, such as prior notification of major military movements and the establishment of a military hotline. source: washingtonpost.com
- 28 Dec Tragic crowd crush at City College basketball game: On December 28, 1991, a crowd crush occurred at the City College of New York gymnasium during a charity basketball game organized by hip-hop celebrities P. Diddy and Heavy D. Approximately 5,000 people attempted to enter a gymnasium with a capacity of 2,730. The crowd surged through a broken glass door into the lobby and down a staircase leading to the gym. At the bottom, inward-opening doors blocked the path, causing a fatal crush that resulted in nine deaths and 29 injuries. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 30 Dec Dissolution of the Soviet Union: On December 30, 1991, the Soviet Union officially dissolved, marking the end of the Cold War era. The dissolution led to the emergence of 15 independent nations and significant geopolitical changes worldwide. source: history.com
- 31 Dec End of El Salvador Civil War: On December 31, 1991, the El Salvador Civil War officially ended with the signing of the Chapultepec Peace Accords. The agreement between the Salvadoran government and the Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front (FMLN) ended a 12-year conflict that resulted in over 75,000 deaths. source: history.com
What happened in 1991?
Discover what the world looked like in 1991: