People and Events on October 2, 1996

Tom Trbojevic

28 Years Old

Australian rugby league fullback and captain, known for his exceptional speed, agility, and ball-handling skills, leading his team to several championships.

A Day of Tragedy and Triumph: October 2nd, 1996

October 2nd, 1996, is a day etched in the annals of history, marked by both devastating tragedy and significant milestones. As the world witnessed the loss of lives and the dawn of a new era in information freedom, this day would leave an indelible mark on the lives of many.

Air Crash Tragedy: Aeroperú Flight 603

In the early hours of October 2nd, 1996, Aeroperú Flight 603, a Boeing 757 aircraft, took off from Lima, Peru, bound for Santiago, Chile. Tragically, the plane crashed into the Peruvian ocean, claiming the lives of all 70 people on board. The cause of the crash was later attributed to human error, as the pilots failed to switch off the plane's altitude warning system.

A New Era in Information Freedom

On the same day, President Bill Clinton signed the Electronic Freedom of Information Act Amendments, a landmark legislation that expanded the public's access to government records and documents. This historic move marked a significant step towards increased transparency and accountability in the US government, ensuring that citizens had greater access to information about their government's activities.

New Life and New Beginnings

October 2nd, 1996, also saw the birth of Tom Trbojevic, an Australian rugby league fullback and captain. Known for his exceptional speed, agility, and ball-handling skills, Trbojevic would go on to lead his team to several championships, earning himself a reputation as one of the greatest players in the sport.

A Day of Contrasts

As the world mourned the loss of lives in the Aeroperú Flight 603 crash, it also celebrated the dawn of a new era in information freedom and the arrival of new life and talent. October 2nd, 1996, will forever be remembered as a day of tragedy and triumph, a poignant reminder of the fragility and beauty of human existence.

Though the events of that day may seem unrelated, they are inextricably linked by their significance and impact on the world. As we reflect on the past, we are reminded of the importance of learnings from tragedy and the power of human perseverance and achievement.

Legacy of a Day

October 2nd, 1996, leaves behind a legacy of lessons and triumphs, a testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity and strive for greatness. As we commemorate this day, we honor the memories of those lost and celebrate the achievements of those who have made a lasting impact on our world.

Noteworthy Events on this Day:
29 years ago
President Clinton signs Electronic Freedom of Information Act Amendments (The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest, Washington, D.C., 20500, USA) 1996
In a groundbreaking move, President Bill Clinton signed the Electronic Freedom of Information Act Amendments on October 2, 1996, revolutionizing the way Americans access government information. This landmark legislation updated the 1966 Freedom of Information Act, ensuring that electronic records were included in the scope of accessible information. The amendments paved the way for greater transparency and accountability, allowing citizens to request and receive electronic copies of government documents with ease. This crucial step towards open governance has had a lasting impact on the relationship between the American people and their government.
The unsuspecting Airbus A320, Aeroperú Flight 603, took off from Lima, Peru, bound for Santiago, Chile, with 70 people on board. But just 30 minutes into the flight, disaster struck. The pilots, struggling to maintain control, found themselves hurtling towards the Pacific Ocean. The plane's altimeter, crucial for measuring altitude, had been stuck to the "zero" mark, leaving the pilots blind to their descent. As the aircraft rapidly lost altitude, desperate cries for help were broadcast to air traffic control. Tragically, it was too late. The plane crashed into the ocean, killing everyone on board.