The entire history of mankind is, in any case, nothing but a prolonged fight to the death for the conquest of universal prestige and absolute power.” Albert Camus, French-Algerian author (1913-1960)
1. Dubrovka Theater Hostage Crisis
On this day in history in 2002, 50 Chechen rebels seized Moscow’s Dubrovka Theater during a musical performance, taking 850 hostages. Demanding Russian troop withdrawal from Chechnya, the siege lasted three days. Russian security forces intervened with chemical gas, resulting in the deaths of all rebels and 170 hostages.
2. Apple Unveiled the iPod
On this day in history in 2001 Apple revolutionized portable music with the first iPod, which became the world’s best-selling media player. By 2007, 100 million units were sold. However, Apple faced criticism for restrictive policies on battery replacement and content sharing.
3. Swatch Introduced Internet Time
On this day in history in 1998, Swatch introduced “beat” time, dividing the day into 1000 units of 1 minute and 26.4 seconds. This innovative concept aimed to simplify online interactions.
4. Beirut Barracks Bombing
On this day in history in 1983, During the Lebanese Civil War, two bombs devastated American and French barracks, killing approximately 300 military personnel. Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility.
5. Sartre Declined Nobel Prize
On this day in history in 1964, French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre rejected the Nobel Prize for Literature, citing his refusal to take sides in the Cold War. He published his reasoning in Le Figaro, emphasizing his commitment to intellectual independence.
