On this day: October 15

U.S. Identifies Anthrax Letters in October 2001 Mail Attacks

In mid-October 2001 U.S. authorities disclosed that mailed letters containing anthrax spores had sickened several people and prompted a wide federal investigation and public-health emergency response.

France Conducts Nuclear Test in South Pacific, October 1970

On 15 October 1970, France carried out a nuclear device detonation in the South Pacific as part of its atmospheric testing program at the Mururoa/Franz Josef atoll complex, drawing regional concern over environmental and health risks.

Communist Party Announces Major Purge amid Cultural Revolution Mobilization

On October 15, 1966, Chinese Communist Party leadership announced a broad political purge tied to the Cultural Revolution, targeting officials, intellectuals and perceived 'revisionists' and accelerating mass campaigns to remove entrenched party cadres.

South African government frees political prisoners amid October 1989 unrest

On 15 October 1989 the South African government released a group of political prisoners during widespread unrest, marking a significant step in negotiations that preceded the end of apartheid. The move reflected internal and international pressure for political reform.