On this day: August 22

1985 European Poisonings Linked to Contaminated Wine Musts and Brandy

In late August 1985 health authorities across parts of Europe reported a cluster of severe poisonings traced to industrial alcohols illicitly added to wine musts and some brandies, prompting recalls, investigations, and renewed regulation on denatured alcohol controls.

1985 European Wine Poisonings Expose Contaminated Alcohol in Musts and Brandies

In August 1985 a wave of methanol poisonings tied to adulterated wine and fruit spirits across Spain and Portugal—and affecting other European countries—killed and blinded hundreds, exposing gaps in regulation and law enforcement around denatured industrial alcohol diverted into beverage production.

Charles de Gaulle Survives 1962 Assassination Attempt in Paris Suburb

On 22 August 1962, President Charles de Gaulle survived a daylight ambush by gunmen near Petit-Clamart, an attempt later attributed to opponents of his Algerian policies; the attack failed and De Gaulle continued his presidency, further consolidating his authority.

Argentina's military junta falls as elections set for October 1983

Facing economic collapse, mass protests and the legacy of the Falklands War, Argentina's ruling military junta resigned on August 22, 1983, ceding power and paving the way for democratic elections later that year.