2010: 33 Miners are Rescued

On Thursday, August 5, 2010, a “significant” cave-in occurred at the San Jose copper and gold mine located in northern Chile trapping 33 miners. On this day, 69 days later in what is now known as the Copiapo Mining Accident, all were rescued in what many see as an absolute miracle. The miners were trapped 2,300 feet underground and about three miles away from the mine’s entrance. 17 days after the event occurred, a drill bit used in an exploratory borehole came back to the surface with a note from the miners below that read, “We are well in the shelter, the 33 of us.” While a new plan was developed to get the men out, rescuers were able to send food, drink and other supplies to the miners until they were able to get the men out. On November 13, 2015, the movie, The 33 was released sharing this incredible journey.