May 18
1980
The 1980 Eruption of Mount St. Helens
On May 18, 1980, Mount St. Helens erupted in Washington, United States, leading to the largest landslide in recorded history and a powerful lateral blast. The event resulted in 57 deaths and caused extensive environmental and economic damage. Read more
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Explore more events in May
May 11
The Lubbock Tornado
A powerful F5 tornado struck Lubbock, Texas, on May 11, 1970, causing widespread devastation and prompting significant advancements in urban planning and meteorological research.
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May 30
The Lod Airport Massacre
An act of international terrorism by the Japanese Red Army at Lod Airport in Israel on May 30, 1972, left 26 dead and 80 injured, triggering global changes in airport security.
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May 4
Kent State Shootings
On May 4, 1970, four students were killed and nine wounded when Ohio National Guardsmen fired on antiwar protesters and bystanders at Kent State University in Ohio. The shootings, set against escalating opposition to the Vietnam War, shocked the nation, sparked a widespread campus strike, and remain a symbol of the tensions and tragedies of the era.
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