1988

UK HEADLINES

Poll Tax Protest Rises Across Britain - Large‑scale demonstrations erupt against the proposed Community Charge (later known as the poll tax). Hillsborough Disaster Inquiry Begins - An official inquiry is launched to investigate the tragic crush that killed 96 football fans at the FA Cup semi‑final. UK Joins European Single Market Initiative - Britain commits to deeper economic integration as the EU moves toward a single market. Chernobyl Fallout Detected in Scottish Highlands - Scientists report trace levels of radiation from the 1986 disaster reaching parts of Scotland. London Hosts First International Climate Conference: World leaders gather to discuss global warming and negotiate early climate agreements.

INTERNATIONAL HEADLINES

George H. W. Bush Wins U.S. Presidential Election - The Republican former Vice‑President defeats Democrat Michael Dukakis, securing the U.S. presidency in a tightly contested race. Armenian Earthquake Kills Tens of Thousands - A magnitude 6.8 quake strikes the Soviet Republic of Armenia, causing massive loss of life and prompting an international relief effort. Pan Am Flight 103 Bombed Over Lockerbie, Scotland - A terrorist bomb explodes aboard a trans‑Atlantic flight, killing all 259 passengers and crew and sparking a global investigation.