World Events in 2006
Execution of Saddam Hussein
Former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein was hanged on 30 December for crimes against humanity, specifically the massacre of 148 Shia Muslims in Dujail. Leaked mobile phone footage of the chaotic execution, showing guards taunting him, caused international controversy.
North Korea's First Nuclear Test
On 9 October, North Korea conducted its first nuclear weapons test, a small underground detonation that nonetheless sent shockwaves through international diplomacy. The UN Security Council unanimously imposed sanctions in response.
Zidane Headbutts Materazzi in World Cup Final
In his final professional match, France captain Zinedine Zidane headbutted Italian defender Marco Materazzi in the chest during the 2006 World Cup final in Berlin. He was sent off and Italy won on penalties. It became one of the most replayed moments in sporting history.
Israel-Lebanon War
A 34-day military conflict erupted in July between Israel and Hezbollah after the Lebanese militia kidnapped two Israeli soldiers. Over 1,000 Lebanese and 160 Israelis were killed before a UN ceasefire took effect in August.
Pluto Reclassified as a Dwarf Planet
The International Astronomical Union voted to reclassify Pluto as a 'dwarf planet' in August, reducing the solar system's planet count from nine to eight. The decision was controversial and sparked public outcry and a 'Save Pluto' campaign.
Music in 2006
"A Moment Like This"
Leona Lewis
The X Factor winner's debut single set a world record for the most digital downloads in 24 hours, selling over 50,000 copies on its first day to become the Christmas number one.
"Bad Day"
Daniel Powter
The Canadian singer's piano-pop anthem spent five weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and became synonymous with American Idol, where it was played as eliminated contestants walked offstage.
#1 Film of 2006
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
Box Office: $1.07 billion worldwide
The sequel to the surprise 2003 hit became the first film to earn over $1 billion that wasn't a Lord of the Rings entry, driven by Johnny Depp's beloved Jack Sparrow character and spectacular visual effects.
Born in 2006
Suri Cruise
Daughter of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, one of the most photographed celebrity children of the 2000s
Shiloh Jolie-Pitt
Child of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt whose birth made worldwide headlines
Barron Trump
Son of Donald and Melania Trump
Romeo Beckham
Son of David and Victoria Beckham who pursued modelling and football
Lost in 2006
Steve Irwin
Australian wildlife expert and TV presenter known as 'The Crocodile Hunter', killed by a stingray barb
Age 44
Slobodan Milosevic
Former President of Serbia and Yugoslavia who died while on trial for war crimes at The Hague
Age 64
James Brown
The 'Godfather of Soul' and one of the most influential musicians in history
Age 73
Saddam Hussein
President of Iraq from 1979 to 2003, executed for crimes against humanity
Age 69
Technology in 2006
Twitter launched in July, beginning as a micro-blogging curiosity. Nintendo's Wii brought motion-controlled gaming to the masses. Google bought YouTube for $1.65 billion. Blu-ray and HD DVD battled for the next-generation disc format. Facebook opened to the public beyond universities.
- ● Twitter launched on 15 July
- ● Google acquired YouTube for $1.65 billion
- ● Nintendo Wii launched with motion controls
- ● Facebook opened registration to everyone aged 13+
Cost of Living in 2006
| Item | UK | US |
|---|---|---|
| Average house price | £167,000 | $215,000 |
| Average salary | £23,000 | $45,000 |
| Pint of milk | £0.30 | $0.41 |
| Loaf of bread | £0.65 | $1.14 |
| Dozen eggs | £1.48 | $1.45 |
| Pint of beer | £2.30 | $3.40 |
| Gallon of petrol/gas | £4.10 | $2.59 |
| Cinema ticket | £5.40 | $6.55 |
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The Zeitgeist of 2006
The mid-2000s aesthetic peaked — skinny jeans, oversized sunglasses, and indie sleaze defined the look. Arctic Monkeys became the first band to reach number one on the back of internet hype. The World Cup in Germany produced drama and heartbreak, culminating in Zidane's infamous headbutt. High School Musical became a cultural phenomenon for a younger generation.
In the News in 2006
Saddam Hussein was executed by hanging in December. North Korea conducted its first nuclear test. The execution of Saddam was filmed on a mobile phone, highlighting the new era of citizen journalism. Steve Irwin, the 'Crocodile Hunter', was killed by a stingray.