1983

1983 was a year in the Gregorian calendar, the most widely used historical system in the world. It was a common year, meaning it had 365 days rather than 366. It fell within the 1980s, a period during which the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union was still ongoing.

When an encyclopedia covers a particular year, the aim is to summarize events, politics, technology and culture associated with that year. 1983 is remembered for changes in information technology and rising global tensions.

Global Political Situation

In 1983, tensions between the two superpowers of the Cold War were among the highest of the decade. Ronald Reagan was president of the United States, while the Soviet Union was undergoing leadership changes. Debate over nuclear missiles in Europe and defense programs was a major topic in media and discussions on security.

Technology and Science

The 1980s were the period when personal computers entered homes and offices. Likewise, networked computer systems—which formed the basis of the modern internet—experienced rapid technological development from the late 1970s through the early 1980s. HIV/AIDS also became an urgent public health research topic in the early 1980s.

Somalia and the Horn of Africa

In the early 1980s, Somalia was governed by a military regime, following the Ogaden War of 1977–1978. At that time there were many refugees, military cooperation with the United States, and opposition groups operating abroad. The Horn of Africa as a whole was among the regions affected by the Cold War's political impact.