Month: January 2009

Since the latter half of 2008, some may have witnessed the deadly conflicts occurring between the nations of India and Pakistan, from televised broadcasts of the news to local newspapers. One major conflict highlighted in particular happens to be the November 2008 attacks in Mumbai, India. In a three-day span lasting from November 26 to November 29, several attacks occurred in the financial capital of India. The death toll was estimated to be more than 200, with an additional 400 injured. According to several police accounts, the Pakistani-based jihadist group Lashkar-e-Taiba were allegedly involved in planning and executing the attacks. In a profile by BBC News, Lashkar-e-Taiba, which translates to Soldiers of the Pure in English, is widely known for battling against the Indian government for its control of the region of Kashmir. The tensions between both nations have escalated much more since the assaults in Mumbai have occurred. Although the attacks have brought increased awareness to the war-torn areas within the past two months, the conflicts have persisted longer than many people may be aware of.

For most Americans January 1 is the day that they know as New Year’s Day, and we welcome it with New Years Eve parties and gatherings all over the country. But for many other Americans, and about one fifth of the world’s population, the Chinese New Year is an equally, if not more important event. On January 26, the year of the Ox will begin on the Chinese calendar.

Tuesday January 20, 2009 will be a day of great remembrance and celebration because the first African American President elect, Barack Obama, will be sworn into office during the inaugural events. Projected record high attendees are expected for next week’s speech, parade and banquet dinner, to welcome the new president to the White House.