Historical Events tagged with "civil conflict"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Military & Warfare

Massacre of Italian Air Force Servicemen in Congo

November 11th, 1961 63 years ago

In Kindu, Congo, a mob attacked and killed thirteen Italian Air Force servicemen who were part of the United Nations peacekeeping forces. The servicemen were in the area to help stabilize the region amid political turmoil following Congo's independence. The violence erupted as local tensions escalated, marking a significant and tragic moment in the UN's peacekeeping efforts.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Outbreak of the Angolan War of Independence

February 4th, 1961 64 years ago

The Angolan War of Independence commenced with coordinated attacks launched by the MPLA, UNITA, and other nationalist movements against Portuguese colonial targets. Occurring in various geographies of Angola, these operations marked a significant escalation in the long-standing struggle for independence from Portuguese rule, influenced by the decolonization movements sweeping across Africa. The desire for self-determination prompted both armed resistance and broader public support against colonial governance, setting the stage for a protracted struggle that would last for several years.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Ceylon Riots Alter Ethnic Relations in Sri Lanka

May 22nd, 1958 66 years ago

In May 1958, widespread riots erupted in Ceylon, fueled by ethnic tensions primarily between the Sinhalese majority and the Tamil minority. Triggered by an inflammatory speech and subsequent incidents, violence spread rapidly across the country. Shops were looted, homes burned, and violent clashes resulted in an estimated 300 deaths, predominantly among Tamils. The riots led to increased government intervention in ethnic matters and marked a significant turning point in the relationship between the country's diverse communities.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Shelling of the Four Courts Begins Irish Civil War

June 28th, 1922 102 years ago

Free State forces commenced an assault on the Four Courts in Dublin, marking the start of the Irish Civil War. This military action aimed to eliminate anti-Treaty forces that had occupied the building. The shelling resulted in significant destruction and a violent conflict that lasted for several months.

Continue Reading
Religion & Philosophy

Unsuccessful Colloquy of Poissy Commences

September 9th, 1561 463 years ago

The Colloquy of Poissy aimed to unite French Catholics and Protestants during the Wars of Religion. Held at the Abbey of Poissy, influential figures like Catherine de' Medici led the discussions attempting to reconcile the two factions. Issues such as the interpretation of Scripture and church practices were on the agenda. Despite the intent for harmony, deep-seated differences remained unresolved, illustrating the growing divides within France’s religious landscape.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Nepotianus Declares Himself Emperor of Rome

June 3rd, 350 1674 years ago

Nepotianus, a usurper of the Constantinian dynasty, marched into Rome at the head of a gladiatorial force, proclaiming himself emperor. This unexpected declaration was a challenge to the authority of the existing ruling powers, specifically targeting the legitimacy of Constantius II's rule. The spectacle of his entrance signified both a bold assertion of power and a deep-seated desire among certain factions within Rome to restore the influence of the Constantinian lineage. The day marked a significant moment of political upheaval in the city.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Dong Zhuo Evacuates and Destroys Luoyang

April 4th, 190 1835 years ago

Dong Zhuo commanded his troops to evacuate Luoyang, subsequently setting the city ablaze. This decision aimed to thwart adversaries, erasing vital imperial resources and his political base. The burning marked a dramatic shift in power dynamics and highlighted Dong Zhuo's ruthless tactics during his reign as a warlord.

Continue Reading