A closer look at key historic events that took place on May 23:
In 1951, China annexes Tibet

In 1951, China annexed Tibet as an autonomous region on May 23 following the invasion by the People’s Liberation Army and the subsequent signing of the “Seventeen Point Agreement”. Despite these assurances, Chinese control tightened, leading to resistance and a major uprising in 1959, after which the Dalai Lama, who led the independence movement fled to India.

In 1949, the Federal Republic of Germany is established

West Germany was established on May 23, following the adoption of the Basic Law (Grundgesetz) as its constitution. Its foundation came four years after the demise of the Nazi regime and the end of World War II and its creation marked the division of Germany into East and West during the Cold War, with West Germany aligned with the Western bloc.

West Germany flag

In 1934, Bonnie and Clyde are killed

The couple was infamous for their bank robberies and murders during the Great Depression. On May 23 they were ambushed and killed by law enforcement officers near Gibsland, Louisiana. Their deaths ended one of the most famous crime sprees in U.S. history.

B.P. and C.B. at field

In 1915, Italy enters World War I

Italy declared war on Austria-Hungary, entering World War I on the side of the Allies, after promises of territorial gains from the Allies, which were formalized in the secret Treaty of London.

WW1 – Italian Officers Soldier Assembly 1. Anthony Catalano. Flickr

In 1430, Joan of Arc is captured by Burgundians 

She was subsequently sold to the English, who viewed her as a significant threat due to her role in supporting the French cause during the Hundred Years’ War. Joan was later tried for heresy and witchcraft And was burned at the stake in 1431.

Oil painting, on canvas, of Joan of Arc wearing a suit of armor over a red skirt. Painted by John Everett Millais and published in 1865. Picryl

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