Aberfan Disaster: Key Facts and Consequences

The Aberfan disaster of 1966 was a catastrophic event in South Wales, where a coal waste tip collapsed, burying a school and killing 144 people, including 116 children. The tragedy highlighted the dangers of coal mining practices and the negligence of the National Coal Board. Despite rescue efforts and a national inquiry, justice was not served, leaving lasting scars on the community. The disaster led to changes in legislation to prevent similar incidents.

What was the primary economic activity in Aberfan before the disaster?

• Textile Manufacturing

• Coal Mining

• Fishing

• Agriculture

What was the main concern of Aberfan residents regarding the spoil tips?

• They were too far from the town

• They were unstable and dangerous

• They were not visible enough

• They were too small

What triggered the movement of tip 7 on the night of October 20, 1966?

• Construction work nearby

• A mining explosion

• Increased rainfall and saturation

• An earthquake

What was the speed of the coal waste wave that hit Aberfan?

• 10 miles per hour

• 15 miles per hour

• 30 miles per hour

• 21 miles per hour

How many children lost their lives in the Aberfan disaster?

• 144

• 50

• 116

• 200

Who was the chairman of the National Coal Board during the Aberfan disaster?

• Lord Robens

• Sir John Smith

• Sir William Jones

• Lord Aberfan

What was the public's reaction to Lord Robens' defense of the NCB?

• They were confused

• They were angered

• They were indifferent

• They supported him

What was the outcome of the tribunal's investigation into the disaster?

• The disaster was deemed unavoidable

• The NCB was found responsible

• The residents were blamed

• No conclusion was reached

What legislative change occurred as a result of the Aberfan disaster?

• The Spoil Management Act

• The Mining Regulation Act

• The Coal Safety Act

• The Mines and Quarries (Tips) Act

How much money was collected for the relief of those affected by the Aberfan disaster?

• 2,000,000 pounds

• 1,000,000 pounds

• 500,000 pounds

• 1,750,000 pounds