Geography Study Materials and Hand-outs

  The Spanish Civil War was a significant conflict that took place from 1936 to 1939 in Spain. It was a complex and deeply ideological struggle between various factions, leading to lasting consequences for the country. Here's an overview of the Spanish Civil War: 1. Background: Spain had experienced political instability and economic hardship in the decades leading up to the war. Deep-seated divisions existed between republicans, left-wing groups, nationalists, and right-wing factions. 2. Key Factions: Republicans: A coalition of left-wing groups, including socialists, communists, anarchists, and republicans, who sought political and social reform. Nationalists: Led by General Francisco Franco, this faction consisted of conservative forces, including monarchists, Falangists (fascists), and traditionalists, who aimed to establish a right-wing authoritarian regime. 3. Outbreak of War: The conflict began with a military uprising against the elected Republican government on July 17, ...

The Chinese Civil War had its roots in the broader political and social upheaval that plagued China in the early 20th century. The collapse of the Qing Dynasty in 1911 and the subsequent establishment of the Republic of China under Sun Yat-sen marked the end of imperial rule but did not bring stability. 2. Major Factions:Chinese Nationalist Party (Kuomintang or KMT): Led by Chiang Kai-shek (Jiang Jieshi), the KMT aimed to unify China under a single, nationalist government. Chinese Communist Party (CCP): Led by Mao Zedong, the CCP sought to establish a communist state in China. 3. Key Phases:First United Front (1927-1928): Initially, the KMT and CCP formed an alliance against warlords and foreign imperialism. However, the alliance quickly deteriorated, leading to the Shanghai Massacre of 1927, in which KMT forces purged communists from their ranks. The Long March (1934-1935): After a series of setbacks, the CCP embarked on the Long March, a grueling retreat to evade KMT forces. This eve...

The Greco-Turkish War, which took place from 1919 to 1922, was a conflict between Greece and the Turkish National Movement led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. This war was a part of the broader aftermath of World War I and the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire. Here's a more detailed overview: 1. Background: Following World War I, the Ottoman Empire was in decline and disarray. Various regions within the empire sought independence or autonomy. Greece aimed to expand its territory by incorporating regions in Anatolia (Asia Minor) with a significant Greek population. 2. Major Phases: Occupation of Smyrna (Izmir): Greek forces, supported by the Allies, occupied the city of Smyrna in 1919, marking the start of the war. Turkish War of Independence: Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and Turkish nationalists initiated a war to resist foreign occupation and establish a modern Turkish state. 3. Key Battles: The conflict saw several pivotal battles, including the Battle of Sakarya and the Battle of Afyon...

The Irish War of Independence, also known as the Anglo-Irish War, was a significant conflict that occurred between 1919 and 1921. It was a pivotal event in Irish history, marking a key step toward the establishment of the Irish Free State (later the Republic of Ireland) and the eventual partition of Ireland. Here's an overview of the Irish War of Independence: 1. Background: Ireland had been under British rule for centuries, with various attempts at achieving independence and self-governance. The Easter Rising of 1916, during which Irish republicans staged a rebellion against British rule in Dublin, played a crucial role in setting the stage for the war. 2. Key Figures and Organizations: Irish Republican Army (IRA): The paramilitary organization formed in 1917 to fight for Irish independence. Sinn Féin: A political party that advocated for Irish independence, led by figures like Éamon de Valera and Michael Collins. Michael Collins: A key military strategist and leader of the IRA...