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.

***