Historical Events tagged with "liberation"

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.

Politics & Government

Rhodesia Becomes a Republic, Rejects British Crown

March 2nd, 1970 55 years ago

Rhodesia formally declared itself a republic, breaking its remaining ties with the British monarchy. This declaration was made on March 2, 1970, under the leadership of Prime Minister Ian Smith. The move came amidst ongoing tensions and conflicts in the region, as Rhodesia sought to assert its independence following unilateral declarations that began in the 1960s. The republic's establishment demonstrated a significant shift in governance for the predominantly white-minority rule, impacting the political landscape of southern Africa.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Lonesome Cowboys Raid sparks Gay Liberation Front

August 5th, 1969 55 years ago

A police raid on the Lonesome Cowboys bar in Atlanta led to significant unrest and the formation of the Georgia Gay Liberation Front. This raid was part of a broader pattern of targeting LGBTQ establishments during a time of active discrimination. Combining activism and support, local LGBTQ individuals and allies rallied together, fueled by the frustrations of the incident.

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Military & Warfare

Battle at Omugulugwombashe Marks Conflict's Start

August 26th, 1966 58 years ago

The South African Border War began with the battle at Omugulugwombashe, where SWAPO (South West Africa People's Organization) forces engaged in armed conflict against the South African military. This confrontation marked the escalation of resistance against colonial rule in Namibia. The attack signified a shift in tactics for SWAPO, as they moved from political struggle to armed resistance. The South African Defence Force responded with military strength, prompting a larger conflict over Namibian independence that would unfold in the years to come.

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Military & Warfare

Guinea-Bissau War of Independence Begins

January 23rd, 1963 62 years ago

On January 23, 1963, PAIGC guerrilla fighters launched an attack against the Portuguese Army stationed in Tite. This marked the formal beginning of the Guinea-Bissau War of Independence, embodying the struggle for liberation from Portuguese colonial rule. The attack signaled the escalation of hostilities between the PAIGC (African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde) and the Portuguese military, leading to a prolonged liberation struggle that would last for over a decade. The conflict was part of a broader wave of anti-colonial movements across Africa during the mid-20th century.

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Military & Warfare

Moroccan Army Ambushes Spanish Patrol

January 13th, 1958 67 years ago

In a strategically significant engagement, the Moroccan Army of Liberation ambushed a Spanish patrol near Edchera. This encounter marked a crucial moment in the conflict as Berber and Arab forces targeted colonial forces. The ambush effectively showcased the determination of Moroccan nationalists to fight against Spanish colonial rule and asserted their presence in the region. The event highlighted the tensions between Moroccan nationalists and Spanish colonial authorities during the period of decolonization in North Africa.

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Military & Warfare

Liberation of Batu Lintang Camp by Australians

September 11th, 1945 79 years ago

Batu Lintang Camp, located on Borneo, was liberated by Australian forces from the 9th Division. This Japanese-run POW and civilian internment camp had been a site of suffering for many individuals. The liberation marked a significant military achievement for the Australians and a moment of relief for the camp's inmates, who had endured harsh conditions under Japanese control during World War II.

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Military & Warfare

Filipino Troops Liberate Ilocos Sur

June 14th, 1945 79 years ago

Filipino troops of the Philippine Commonwealth Army launched a liberation operation in Ilocos Sur, successfully rescuing captives while initiating the critical Battle of Bessang Pass in Northern Luzon. This military action was essential in repelling Japanese forces and further securing the area during World War II.

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Military & Warfare

Australian Forces Liberate Brunei from Occupation

June 10th, 1945 79 years ago

Australian Imperial Forces landed in Brunei Bay to liberate Brunei from Japanese occupation during World War II. This operation marked a significant move in the broader campaign to displace Japanese forces in Southeast Asia. The landing involved coordinated naval and military efforts, showcasing Australia's commitment to supporting the Allies in the Pacific. The successful liberation was celebrated by local populations who had endured harsh occupation conditions since 1941.

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Politics & Government

King Haakon VII's Return from Exile

June 7th, 1945 79 years ago

King Haakon VII of Norway returned to Oslo after five years of exile during World War II. He had fled to London in 1940 following the German invasion of Norway, where he remained involved in the Norwegian government-in-exile. His return was marked by a grand reception, symbolizing Norway's liberation and the end of the Nazi occupation. The event was emotional for both the king and the Norwegian people, heralding a sense of hope and renewal for the nation.

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