Events that occurred on June 20, 1981 essays

Events that occurred on June 20, 1981 essays The America of the early 1980s was characterized by concerns relating to the Cold War. On June 21, 1981, for example, the Soviet Union launched a research satellite to dock with the Salyut 6 space laboratory. Though ostensibly for research purposes, the thought of a permanent orbiting Soviet station in space raised concern in the United States regarding Soviet technology ("Soviet Plans Big Orbiting Station"). This growing concern over the harmful potential of foreign technology was also evident in the American interest in the first Arab nuclear conference that just concluded in Damascus, Syria. The conference ended with an agreement to establish nuclear power stations in Arab countries. This conference marked the first foray of Arab nations into nuclear technology ("Arab Nations Set Up Group to Promote Nuclear Power"). Domestically, the United States was further being buffeted by labor disputes. The Air Control Union agreed to delay a scheduled walkout, but continued to agitate for more benefits for its members. The threatened strike caused a great deal of public worry, since a strike by air traffic controllers would disrupt nationwide air travel (Witkin). In addition to the threatened air traffic strike, many Americans were also dealing with the loss of the nation's pastime. Baseball players continued to be on strike, and relations between both sides deteriorated further after failed talks. The resulting delay in the start of baseball season added to the somber air permeating the country. Perhaps partly because of this uncertainty, people turned to the movies and television for entertainment. The most popular programs were comedies, including the hit movie "Cannonball Run" and programs such as "Eight is Enough." Game shows like "The Price is Right" and "The $100,000 Name that Tune" were also popular primetime choices. Such programming ...