Yugoslavia (1918-1992)
Picture trying to keep six siblings with strong personalities from fighting at a family dinner – that’s basically Yugoslavia’s story. Born from the ashes of World War I, this Balkan federation somehow managed to hold together different ethnic groups, languages, and religions under one roof for most of the 20th century. Charismatic leader Tito kept the peace through sheer force of personality (and, well, actual force), turning Yugoslavia into a unique player in the Cold War.
The country rocked non-alignment before it was cool, hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo, and produced some seriously good basketball teams. But after Tito’s death, ancient rivalries resurfaced faster than you can say “Balkanization,” leading to a tragic series of wars. Today’s map shows Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Kosovo (though Serbia might argue about that last one) where Yugoslavia once stood proud.
Tibet (1912-1951)
Newfoundland (1907-1949)
Czechoslovakia (1918-1993)
Unlike Yugoslavia’s messy divorce, Czechoslovakia pulled off the world’s most amicable national breakup – so peaceful they called it the Velvet Divorce. Born after World War I, this Central European nation combined Czech industrial might with Slovak agricultural strength. They created some seriously good beer, better hockey teams, and survived Nazi occupation only to fall behind the Iron Curtain.
After the 1989 Velvet Revolution kicked out the communists, the Czechs and Slovaks looked at each other and decided maybe they’d be better as just friends. Today, both the Czech Republic (now calling itself Czechia, though nobody seems to use that) and Slovakia thrive as EU members, proving sometimes breaking up isn’t hard to do.
South Vietnam (1955-1975)
For 20 years, South Vietnam stood as America’s ally against communism in Southeast Asia, though “stood” might be generous given how often it was rocked by coups. Created when Vietnam was split at the 17th parallel, South Vietnam became ground zero for the Cold War’s hottest conflict.
Despite massive U.S. support, billions in aid, and half a million American troops, South Vietnam fell to North Vietnam in 1975, marked by that famous helicopter evacuation from the U.S. embassy in Saigon. Today, it’s all just Vietnam, a unified country where you can get amazing pho, take selfies in the Cu Chi tunnels, and buy Communist propaganda posters as souvenirs. Saigon became Ho Chi Minh City, though locals still use both names.
Sikkim (1642-1975)
Tucked between Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, this tiny Himalayan kingdom managed to stay independent way longer than you’d expect. Ruled by the Chogyals (Buddhist kings), Sikkim balanced its relationships with British India and Tibet like a master diplomat. After India gained independence, Sikkim became its protectorate but kept its monarchy until 1975, when its people voted to join India in a referendum (though some claim India helped push that vote along).
Today, Sikkim exists as India’s least populous state, known for organic farming, stunning mountain views, and having the world’s third-highest peak, Kangchenjunga, in its backyard. The former palace now houses government offices, while the last Chogyal’s family lives as private citizens. Source : touropia
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