Historical Events tagged with "middle east"

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

Transjordan Achieves Full Independence from Britain

March 22nd, 1946 78 years ago

Transjordan officially gained independence from British rule on March 22, 1946, following an agreement that marked the end of a significant colonial presence in the region. The event culminated years of negotiations and local aspirations for self-governance, solidified by the role of King Abdullah I. This pivotal moment in the history of Jordan showcased the broader shift in British imperial policies post-World War II, as many territories sought autonomy and statehood.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Qazi Muhammad Declares Republic of Mahabad

January 22nd, 1946 79 years ago

Qazi Muhammad announced the establishment of the independent People's Republic of Mahabad in Chahar Cheragh Square, Mahabad. He took office as president, appointing Haji Baba Sheikh as prime minister. This unprecedented event symbolized Kurdish aspirations for autonomy in the post-World War II era.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Levant Crisis between Britain and France

May 16th, 1945 79 years ago

In Syria, nationalist protests erupted as local groups challenged French rule. The French military attempted to suppress the uprisings but ultimately withdrew after receiving threats of military action from the British government, highlighting the fragile nature of colonial rule in the post-war period. This confrontation marked a significant moment in escalating tensions within the region as nationalist sentiments grew stronger.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Roosevelt and Ibn Saud Forge U.S.-Saudi Relations

February 14th, 1945 80 years ago

President Franklin D. Roosevelt met King Ibn Saud aboard the USS Quincy in the Red Sea, marking the official beginning of diplomatic relations between the United States and Saudi Arabia. This pivotal encounter established a framework for cooperation centered around oil and security interests, laying the groundwork for a lasting alliance. Roosevelt and Ibn Saud discussed the importance of maintaining stability in the Middle East while addressing mutual concerns about the post-war world order.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Lebanon Achieves Independence from French Rule

November 22nd, 1943 81 years ago

Lebanon officially gained independence from France after a period of mandate that began following World War I. The declaration of independence was initially announced in May of 1941 by the Free French government, but it took nearly two more years for full sovereignty to be recognized. The Lebanese people, who largely craved freedom from colonial control, celebrated this achievement in the capital, Beirut, marking a significant turn in their national identity and governance.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Allied Forces Begin Campaign in Syria-Lebanon

June 8th, 1941 83 years ago

The Syria-Lebanon Campaign commenced as Allied forces aimed to defeat the Vichy French troops stationed in the Levant. The British Commonwealth forces, supported by Free French troops, launched an offensive to gain control over the region, strategically important for controlling routes to Palestine and the Suez Canal. The campaign included key battles at locations like Merdjayoun and Sidon, showcasing both ground and air operations. This operation was primarily motivated by the need to eliminate Axis influence and secure the Middle Eastern front against potential Japanese and German aggression.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

The Farhud: Pogrom Against Iraqi Jews

June 1st, 1941 83 years ago

In June 1941, anti-Jewish riots known as the Farhud erupted in Baghdad, Iraq. Fueled by local nationalism, these violent pogroms were instigated by a combination of political unrest and propaganda. Iraqi Jews faced looting, assaults, and murders. Thousands were forced to flee their homes, leading to a significant emigration of Jewish families, many of whom sought refuge in Palestine and beyond. The Farhud marked a critical turning point in the Jewish community's relationship with the Iraqi state.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

UK Re-occupies Iraq, Restores Abd al-Ilah's Power

May 31st, 1941 83 years ago

In 1941, following a coup in Iraq that tilted the government toward Axis powers, the United Kingdom executed a military intervention to re-establish control over the region. British forces successfully re-occupied Iraq, leading to the reinstatement of Abd al-Ilah as regent for the young King Faisal II. This return was pivotal for the UK’s interests in the Middle East amidst the larger global conflict of World War II, emphasizing strategic oil resources and military positioning.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

British Troops Capture Fallujah During Conflict

May 22nd, 1941 83 years ago

British troops captured Fallujah during the Anglo-Iraqi War as part of their campaign to restore the pro-British regime in Iraq. The city was strategically important, serving as a significant urban center in the region. This operation aimed to suppress the nationalist and pro-Axis forces that overthrew the British-backed Iraqi government. The successful capture facilitated further military operations in the area and helped regain control over Iraq.

Continue Reading