Commentaries by Joshua Villanueva

Taiwan’s Leadership Faces Uncertain Future Under China’s Watchful Eye

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Taiwan’s Leadership Faces Uncertain Future Under China’s Watchful Eye

Joshua Villanueva

January 16, 2024 11:09:56 am

The world watched as Taiwanese voters cast their ballots to elect their new president on Saturday, the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) Lai Ching-te, Taiwan’s current Vice President. The 2024 election poses a challenge for Taiwan, as the nation strives to maintain the status quo and its degree of autonomy as China escalates its military actions [...]

THIS DAY @ LAW

District of Columbia named seat of US government

On July 16, 1790, the District of Columbia was established as the permanent seat of the United States government by the Residence Act. Originally the district contained land on both sides of the Potomac, grants from Maryland and Virginia, but in the mid-19th century, when it was obvious that the major government buildings were being built on the Maryland side, Virginia asked for its land back and received it. Learn more about the District of Columbia.

Saddam Hussein becomes President of Iraq

On July 16, 1979, Hasan al-Bakr resigned as President of Iraq. He was replaced by Saddam Hussein, who held power until he was deposed by American forces in 2003. In 2006, Hussein was tried and convicted of crimes against humanity. He was executed by hanging later that year. Learn more about relations between the United States and Saddam Hussein from George Washington University.