Explanation

• Russia expanded westward to create strategic depth, increasing the distance between its core territories and potential invading armies.
• The open plains of Eastern Europe offered few natural barriers, making buffer territories important for defence.
• Historical invasions by Napoleon in 1812 and Nazi Germany in 1941 reinforced Russian concerns about western approaches.
• Strategic depth provides more space to mobilize forces, organize defence, and delay an advancing enemy.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• The Fall of Granada took place on 2 January 1492.
• Granada was the last Muslim-ruled stronghold in the Iberian Peninsula.
• The city surrendered to Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile.

Additional information:

• 1453: Fall of Constantinople
• 1487: Reconquest campaigns in the Iberian Peninsula
• 1492: Christopher Columbus reached the Americas
• 1501: Safavid dynasty established in Persia

Last verified on 08-10-2026

Explanation

• The Soviet Union (USSR) was a communist state.
• It was established in 1922 after the Russian Revolution and Civil War.
• It was dissolved in 1991.

Additional information:

• Official name: Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR)
• Capital: Moscow
• Ideology: Communism
• First leader: Vladimir Lenin
• Last leader: Mikhail Gorbachev

Last verified on 26-09-2026

Explanation

• The United Kingdom officially left the European Union (EU) on 31 January 2020 at 11:00 p.m. GMT.
• It is known as Brexit (British Exit).
• It ended the UK's 47-year membership of the European Union.
• The transition period lasted until 31 December 2020.
• Referendum Date: 23 June 2016
• Article 50 Triggered: 29 March 2017
• Referendum Result: Leave – 51.9%, Remain – 48.1%

Last verified on 08-04-2026

Explanation

In 2026, France's National Assembly made global headlines by approving a landmark bill to ban social media for children under 15.

The move is part of a broader "health emergency" strategy to protect youth from digital addiction and cyberbullying.

The ban to take effect by September 1, 2026.

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Explanation

• In 395 A.D, the Roman Empire was permanently divided into Eastern and Western parts after Emperor Theodosius I.
• This division helped manage a vast and weakening empire.
• The Eastern part later became known as the Byzantine Empire.
• The division was done due to administrative and military difficulties.

Last verified on 30-05-2026

Explanation

The first country from the European Union (EU) to introduce fuel rationing amid energy disruptions in 2026 is Slovenia.

 Additional Information:  

Slovenia imposed limits on how much fuel people could buy because of shortages and long lines at petrol stations, making it the first EU member state to use fuel rationing in response to escalating U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran

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Explanation

In April 2026, the European Union (EU) approved its 20th package of major sanctions against Russia.

Formally adopted on April 23, 2026, by the Council of the European Union, this package represents the largest set of new restrictions in two years.

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Explanation

• The United Kingdom officially left the European Union (EU) on 31 January 2020.
• This withdrawal is popularly known as Brexit (British Exit).

Additional information:

• Referendum Date: 23 June 2016
• Vote Result: Leave – 51.9%, Remain – 48.1%
• Transition Period: Until 31 December 2020, UK followed EU rules.

Last verified on 09-03-2026

Explanation

• The European Parliament (EU Parliament) is one of the main legislative bodies of the European Union.
• Its official seat is in Strasbourg, France, where most plenary sessions are held.
• Brussels, Belgium, is used for committee meetings and additional sessions.

Last verified on 12-03-2026