History of Human Rights in Europe
HUMAN Rights
Greece
1936
1887
1821
Publication of Women Newspaper
Strike of Tobacco Workers
Greek Revolution.
Kileler Uprising
3 September Revolution
1910
1843
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HUMAN RIGHTS
Greece
1969
1971
1973
1952
Seferis Funeral
Students's Rebelion in Polytechnic University .
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Women's voting
Seferis Statement
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HUMAN RIGHTS
Spain
1975
1978
1931
1939
1936
Death of Franco
Beginning of Franco's dictatorship
Spanish coup d'etat
Writing of the Constitution
2nd Spanish Republic
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HUMAN RIGHTS
France
1968
1789
Student's Rebelion
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French Revolution
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HUMAN RIGHTS
Italy
1969
1786
Abolition of Death Penalty.
"Hot" Αutumn
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hUMAN Rights
Germany
1517
1948
1968
Protestant Reformation.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Students's Rebelion
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HUMAN Rights
United KingDom
1918
1811
1215
The magna carta
Luddite movement
Suffragettes
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HUMAN Rights
Netherlands
1795
1811
1433
The batavian republic
Luddite movement
The magna caThe Burgundian s are establ ished under Philip the Good.rta
1517: Protestant Reformation sparks debates over religious freedom, leading to conflicts between Catholics and Protestants.
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The luddite movement
- Named after “General Ned Ludd”, a mythical leading figure, the luddites were a fragment of the working class of Great Britain in the 19th century. Textile workers trained and eminently skilled, who defended their rights to work, and opposed the use of automated machinery, with the concern of losing their laboriously obtained jobs.
- The Napoleonic wars (1803-1815) also played a major role in the emerging of luddism, by reason of the rise in difficult working conditions in the new textile factories.
- Though the main factor of the locomotion was the Industrial revolution, which ensued the transformation of European and North American societies
- Part of their movement was the destruction and sabotage of machines and organized swing riots.
- The luddism movement commenced at Nottingham and later spread to Yorkshire, Lancashire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire between 1811 and 1817.
Generated with help from wordart.com/create
- On the 9th of October 1779 the first significant Luddite swing riot took place in Manchester. The textile workers and the weavers rebelled against the machinery which threatened their artisanship.
- Eventually the Luddite movement was silenced by the government and the use of machinery in factories began to grow and flourish, leaving many people disengaged. Nevertheless, their fights did not go in vain and will forever be reminisced as a symbol of resistance to technology.
Sources: ❖ Evan Andrews, August 21 2023, Who Were the Luddites, HISTORY, https://www.history.com/news/who-were-the-luddites
❖ Christopher Klein, January 04 2019, The Original Luddites Raged Against the Machine of the Industrial Revolution, HISTORY, https://www.history.com/news/industrial-revolution-luddites-workers
❖ History.com Editors, March 27 2023, Industrial Revolution, HISTORY, https://www.history.com/topics/industrial-revolution/industrial-revolution
❖ Jessica Brain, October 06 2018, The Luddites, Historic UK, https://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofBritain/The-Luddites/
❖ Unknown. 195 years since publication, copyright extinguished, Published in May 1812 by Messrs. Walker and Knight, Sweetings Alley, Royal Exchange, The Leader of the Luddites, https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/eb/Luddite_cropped.jpg
Quiz!
3th Semptember of 1843
However, his autocratic style of governance, his insistence on excluding Greek politicians from government, and his scandalous favoritism toward his fellow Bavarians in public life provoked significant discontent among the Greeks. This dissatisfaction was further exacerbated by Greece's inability to repay loans to the Three Great Powers (England, France, Russia), which imposed restrictions on state expenditures.
Many soldiers revolted, and under the leadership of Dimitrios Kallergis, they gathered in the square in front of the Royal Palace. At the same time, a crowd of citizens, led by Makriyannis, a hero of the Greek War of Independence, joined them in front of the palace demanding a constitution. Otto was forced to concede. He accepted the terms set by the revolutionaries and accepted his new role as a "constitutional monarch"
Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
On January 25, 1833, Otto, a Bavarian prince, disembarked at Nafplio to be crowned the first King of the Greeks after the Ottoman rule. Otto sought to establish a functional administration and an organized army.
Sources: • Η μέρα που ο Όθωνας αναγκάστηκε να βγει στο παράθυρο για να αντιμετωπίσει τους επαναστατημένους Έλληνες. Ήταν 3 Σεπτεμβρίου 1843 και ο λαός απαιτούσε Σύνταγμα. Μηχανή του Χρόνου.
http://www.mixanitouxronou.gr/i-mera-pou-o-othonas-anagkastike-na-vgi-sto-parathiro-ton-anaktoron-gia-na-antimetopisi-tous-epanastatimenous-ellines-itan-3-septemvriou-1843-ke-o-laos-zitouse-sintagma-ke-tin-exosi-ton-vavaron-apo/http://www.mixanitouxronou.gr/i-mera-pou-o-othonas-anagkastike-na-vgi-sto-parathiro-ton-anaktoron-gia-na-antimetopisi-tous-epanastatimenous-ellines-itan-3-septemvriou-1843-ke-o-laos-zitouse-sintagma-ke-tin-exosi-ton-vavaron-apo/ • 3 Σεπτεμβρίου 1843: Σαν σήμερα η Επανάσταση που έφερε το Σύνταγμα στην Ελλάδα. (03-9-2023). Πρώτο Θέμα. https://www.protothema.gr/stories/article/1408320/3-septemvriou-1843-san-simera-i-epanastasi-pou-efere-to-sudagma-stin-ellada/
The luddite movement
- Named after “General Ned Ludd”, a mythical leading figure, the luddites were a fragment of the working class of Great Britain in the 19th century. Textile workers trained and eminently skilled, who defended their rights to work, and opposed the use of automated machinery, with the concern of losing their laboriously obtained jobs.
- The Napoleonic wars (1803-1815) also played a major role in the emerging of luddism, by reason of the rise in difficult working conditions in the new textile factories.
- Though the main factor of the locomotion was the Industrial revolution, which ensued the transformation of European and North American societies
- Part of their movement was the destruction and sabotage of machines and organized swing riots.
- The luddism movement commenced at Nottingham and later spread to Yorkshire, Lancashire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire between 1811 and 1817.
Generated with help from wordart.com/create
- On the 9th of October 1779 the first significant Luddite swing riot took place in Manchester. The textile workers and the weavers rebelled against the machinery which threatened their artisanship.
- Eventually the Luddite movement was silenced by the government and the use of machinery in factories began to grow and flourish, leaving many people disengaged. Nevertheless, their fights did not go in vain and will forever be reminisced as a symbol of resistance to technology.
Sources: ❖ Evan Andrews, August 21 2023, Who Were the Luddites, HISTORY, https://www.history.com/news/who-were-the-luddites
❖ Christopher Klein, January 04 2019, The Original Luddites Raged Against the Machine of the Industrial Revolution, HISTORY, https://www.history.com/news/industrial-revolution-luddites-workers
❖ History.com Editors, March 27 2023, Industrial Revolution, HISTORY, https://www.history.com/topics/industrial-revolution/industrial-revolution
❖ Jessica Brain, October 06 2018, The Luddites, Historic UK, https://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofBritain/The-Luddites/
❖ Unknown. 195 years since publication, copyright extinguished, Published in May 1812 by Messrs. Walker and Knight, Sweetings Alley, Royal Exchange, The Leader of the Luddites, https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/eb/Luddite_cropped.jpg
Quiz!
Kileler Uprising
The Kileler uprising took place in Thessaly in March 1910, while Greece was still a kingdom. The local farmers rebelled protesting against the limited rights they had, in contrast to the wealthy landowners who were offered numerous privileges . Additionally they were asking for better working conditions, tax reduction and for their rights to be restored. In 1906, Marinos Antipas went to the region and was shocked to see the inhumane conditions there and tried to awaken the locals. Some would believe that Antipas was a priest or a teacher due to the way he talked about human rights, education, Sunday holiday, a doctor’s presence in the region etc. Accordingly, the locals requested to travel to Larissa without paying for a ticket, since they did not have enough money to do so. However, the request was declined and the farmers came into conflict with the station master, who asked for the police to be involved. When the police arrived some of them attacked the protestors, killing two and injuring many others. The news spread quickly across the town and the conflicts between officers and farmers worsened. Τhe uprising ended on the 10th of March 1910 after some police officers started shooting the farmers in cold blood. Afterwards, loads of farmers were tried but none of them was convicted. In the end, the government’s need to use farmers as soldiers and the integration of the Greek refugees from Minor Asia led to the law enforcement concerning the redistribution of land. The importance of the farmers’ uprising remains up-to-date and is of significant value as it is still a source of inspiration to fight for justice and equality.
Sources
- https://www.sansimera.gr/articles/224
- https://el.wikipedia.org/wiki/%CE%95%CE%BE%CE%AD%CE%B3%CE%B5%CF%81%CF%83%CE%B7_%CF%84%CE%BF%CF%85_%CE%9A%CE%B9%CE%BB%CE%B5%CE%BB%CE%AD%CF%81
Publication of Women Newsapaer
The newspaper, which was first published on March 8, 1887 under the name of "Newspaper of the Ladies," was the first newspaper in Greece to be written exclusively by women for women. The organizer of the newspaper was the journalist, educator and pioneering feminist Callirhoe Paren. In the beginning, she signed her articles under the name of Eva Prenar. The Newspaper of the Ladies aimed at the social elevation of women, their equality with men and the ensuring of full rights in education and work.
The effort for the emancipation of women through the newspaper sparked mixed reactions. On the one hand, there were those who expressed derogatory remarks, claiming that the professions suitable for women were those of the housewife and the courtesan. On the other hand others supported their battle and admired the penmanship of the newspaper's editors. The newspaper became a forerunner of the feminist movement in Greece and led to the creation of the first serious women's. The Newspaper of the Ladies ceased publication in 1918 when Callirhoe Paren was exiled to Hydra for her political views.
Public Domain
Sources: Εφημερίς των Κυριών. Σαν Σήμερα. https://www.sansimera.gr/articles/605
Hot Autumn 1969
In the fall of 1969, Italy went through a lot of changes in the world of work. This period is called the hot autumn. There were many clashes between workers and their bosses. More people joined in, including workers, students, the unemployed, and everyday people. Tensions had been building for two years. Management wasn't paying attention to workers' problems, and things finally boiled over.
Workers started ignoring no-strike agreements. They united to ask for better pay and shorter hours. But this movement stood for more than just money. It also raised big questions about society and politics.
At the same time, students were protesting too. This made the situation messier because the government was divided. Three main political parties were involved: the Christian Democrats on the center-left, the Socialist Party on the left, and the Communist Party. National unions faced their troubles. Their members wanted more say in things. Three big unions played important roles: the CGIL, which worked with leftist groups; the CISL, made up of Christian Democrats and some socialists; and the UIL, which included socialists and republicans. Nevertheless, even with their differences, they all knew they had to come together during this tough time to fight for their rights.
Operai della Pirelli in sciopero all'uscita della fabbrica a Milano, autunno 1969. Creative Commons
Sources: Hot Autumn. www.encyclopedia.com. https://www.encyclopedia.com/history/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/hot-autumn
May of 68'
May 1968 in France was a period of important social and political change. It all started with student protests, as they demanded changes to the old and restrictive education system, which was overcrowded and lacked freedom. What began in Paris quickly spread across France when violent conflicts between the police and protesters sparked anger and annoyance. Workers soon joined in, starting a huge work stoppage that involved over 10 million people. As factories shut down and transportation stopped working ,the economy stopped developing, raising fears of a possible revolution.
Although the protests did not remove Charles de Gaulle’s government, they had a big impact on French society. Earnings increased, working conditions improved, and the events of May 1968 led to important discussions about equality, freedom, and the need to challenge old systems. The movement inspired similar actions around the world, showing the power of people to demand change. It also inspired movements for social justice and the rights of minorities, focusing on the importance of free speech and artistic expression. Furthermore, it showed the importance of fight for human rights,which led people to care more about equality and the protection of freedom, motivating them to stand up against unfairness and work towards making a fair word.
sources: May 68 (2024, 24 Νοεμβρίου)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/May_68
Wolin R. ,events of May 1968
Events of May 1968 | Background, Significance, & Facts | Britannica
Ed (2006, 8 September) 1968: a chronology of events in France and internationally
1968: a chronology of events in France and internationally | libcom.org
Robert Schediwy, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Protestant Reformation
The Middle Ages had ended a couple of centuries ago, but it would be hard for Europe to recover. There was still poverty, famine, wars and power struggles left and right and new nations and their kings or emperors rising to power, taking advantage of their people for land and wealth. But by far the most powerfull man in Europe and arguably the world, was the pope of the Roman Catholic Christian Church, who used all the Christian leaders like puppets since he owned 1/3 of all land in Europe in the 16th century.
Martin Luther, born on the 10th of November 1483 in Eisleben, Saxony in the Holy Roman Empire (today’s Germany).After he had a near death exrerience while returning from law school, he became a monk at St. Augustine’s Monastery on the 17th of July 1505. In 1507 he was ordained in the Erfurt Cathedral and one year later became a teacher in theology in the university of Wittenberg. He became disapointed at the Church after his trip to Rome thinking it was too corrupt and after he analyzed some verses from the Bible he came to the understanding that salvation comes only through faith and not works.
What really triggered the Reformation was the arrival of Johhan Tetzel in Germany to sell indulgences, which were permits sold by the Church to people so their sins are forgiven. Luther was enraged by the corruption of the Church and wrote 95 theses or arguments against them and he either mailed them to the town bishop or nailed them on the doors of All Saints Church on 31 October 1517. Even though he tried to defend his views in front of Church officials, he was declared a heretic and was excommunicated by Pope Leo X in 1521. Even though he was kicked out of the Church he still managed to spread his words all across Europe by using the printing press and translating the Bible from Latin,which was only known to the clergy, to German, English and French.Later that year he was called to defend his belifes in front of Emperor Charles V of the Holy Roman Empire in the city of Worms. There, he concluded his apology speech by saying:«Unless I am convinced by the testimony of the Scriptures or by clear reason, i am bound by the Scriptures I have quoted, and my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and will not recant anything since it is neither safe nor right to go against conscience. May God help me. Amen.»
Sources:
- Martin Luther (30 November 2024). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther#
- National Geographic (2017). History 101: The Protestant Reformation | National Geographic [Βιντεο]. Youtube. https://youtu.be/IATyzSAjC1w?si=-vhGICSrWBVkWa6q
Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
THE MAGNA CARTA
The Magna Carta translates to “Great Charter”, and is a determining file that registers English political liberties and was institutionalized at Runnymede, a savannah by the River Thames. Moreover, it was arranged by King John on June 15, 1215, under pressure from subversive peers of his that were asking for their rights. Via the Magna Carta , not only did the monarch of the time have to obey the laws but he also had to keep track of the liberties settled by “free men”. Moreover , it acted as a blueprint for individual rights in Anglo-American jurisprudence. Throughout the Magna Carta’s provisions there were chapters that advocated for a free church, groundbreaking for the law , since it resulted in revising the law and justice, and limiting the irrational power of the aristocrats and people with high end positions in general. It is also important to mention that nobody could adjust the law to their preference or need , even and the King . Additionally this historic document , played a crucial role on the development of laws all around the globe. The Magna Carta , was restudied by King Henry the third in his attempt to counter the efforts that the King of France with the support of the barons had been making to win the control of England. To conclude , omit “ after “some reconsiderations omit “that” took place in 1217, due to a new policy , in 1223 for religious purposes , and finally in 1225.
The Excellent priviledge of liberty and property: being a reprint and facsimile of the first
American edition of Magna Charta , belongs to Yale Law Library and is licensed under
CC-BY-2.0
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=99631107
Sources :
Magna carta , Doris Mary Stenton https://www.britannica.com/topic/Magna-Carta
Universal Declaration of Human Rights
It is one of the historical documents created by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948. The great milestone in the development of international law, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, specifies the fundamental human rights to be protected by every country and provides for the inviolable dignity, equality, and inalienable rights of every person regardless of theyr race, sex, nationality, or religion. Apart from the right to life and freedom of speech, education, and equality before the law, the UDHR includes civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights in 30 articles. It was conceived in the aftermath of the World War II, and thus it is the basis of international law regarding human rights. This inspired a lot of separate treaties, national constitutions and codes of law all over the world. UDHR stands for a global desire for justice and respect for human beings upon which countries should operate and work to establish peace, freedom, and equality .This is the light for advocacy today in human rights.
Sources:
- Equality and Human Rights
https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/human-rights/what-are-human-rights/what-
universal-declaration-human-rights
- Amnesty international
https://www.amnesty.org/en/what-we-do/universal-declaration-of-human-rights/
- Universal Declaration of Human Rightes
https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights
THE MAGNA CARTA
The Magna Carta translates to “Great Charter”, and is a determining file that registers English political liberties and was institutionalized at Runnymede, a savannah by the River Thames. Moreover, it was arranged by King John on June 15, 1215, under pressure from subversive peers of his that were asking for their rights. Via the Magna Carta , not only did the monarch of the time have to obey the laws but he also had to keep track of the liberties settled by “free men”. Moreover , it acted as a blueprint for individual rights in Anglo-American jurisprudence. Throughout the Magna Carta’s provisions there were chapters that advocated for a free church, groundbreaking for the law , since it resulted in revising the law and justice, and limiting the irrational power of the aristocrats and people with high end positions in general. It is also important to mention that nobody could adjust the law to their preference or need , even and the King . Additionally this historic document , played a crucial role on the development of laws all around the globe. The Magna Carta , was restudied by King Henry the third in his attempt to counter the efforts that the King of France with the support of the barons had been making to win the control of England. To conclude , omit “ after “some reconsiderations omit “that” took place in 1217, due to a new policy , in 1223 for religious purposes , and finally in 1225.
Sources :
Magna carta , Doris Mary Stenton https://www.britannica.com/topic/Magna-Carta
The Excellent priviledge of liberty and property: being a reprint and facsimile of the first
American edition of Magna Charta , belongs to Yale Law Library and is licensed under
CC-BY-2.0
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=99631107
Women’s Right to Vote in Greece
Greek women won the right to be elected in Parliament on May 28, 1952, after many years of struggling for it. Kallirhoe Parren, 1861-1940, . She was one of the most important figures in the struggle for equality. She founded the newspaper of the ladies 1887, the first women's newspaper, Furthermore, she collaborated with women's movements in both Europe and America to demand equal rights, such as the right to vote. The idea of women voting was often laughed at in newspapers as people thought it was dangerous because they thought women weren't rational, especially during certain times of the month.. Nevertheless, women's suffrage arrived in Greece in 1930 but with many limitations: the right to vote was extended only to women who were over 30 years old and had completed at least elementary schooling although this came significantly later than in most other European countries namely Finland in 1906, Norway in 1917, Germany in 1919, and Britain in 1928. The first Greek women voted in municipal elections on February 11, 1934. Still, very few registered. In Athens, only 2,655 women were enrolled on the voting list. The majority of women in rich families thought it was not proper to vote. According to the famous actress Marika Kotopouli voting was for ugly women and those who did not care about being mothers. After World War II and the Greek Civil War, the fight for women's rights gained attention again. Women finally got to vote in parliamentary elections on May 28, 1952. But, they couldn't vote in those elections later that year because the voter rolls had not been updated in time. Finally it was in 1953 when women were compensated as Eleni Skoura from the Hellenic Alert Party was elected as a deputy in Thessaloniki and became the first woman to be elected. As well as that, there was another female candidate named Virginia Zanna from the Liberal Party.
Greek women won the right to be elected to Parliament in 1952. Public Domain
Sources:
- Philip Crysopoulos, (2020). May 28, 1952: Greek Women Earn the Right to be Elected. greekreporter.com. https://greekreporter.com/2020/05/27/may-28-1952-greek-women-earn-the-right-to-be-elected/Philip
Franco's dictatorship
lack of freedom
The first decade of his government saw harsh repression by military tribunals, political purges, and economic hardship. Economic recovery was made difficult by the destruction during the Civil War (especially of railway and communications in general), a loss of skilled labour, a series of bad droughts, and a shortage of foreign exchange and the restriction on imports of capital goods imposed by World War II and its aftermath. Nevertheless, Franco demanded France’s North African colonies in compensation for military cooperation against the Western Allies, on who Spain was dependent for food and oil imports. Hitler refused. Franco reaffirmed Spain’s nominal neutrality without gaining their benevolence. Even thought, there was something called "white terror", reffering to acts of politically motivated violence, rape, and other crimes committed by the Nationalist during the dictatorship. This was a huge step backwards in terms of human rights
https://www.britannica.com/place/Spain/Francos-Spain-1939-75http://es.tiching.com/white-terror-the-civil-war-in-spain/recurso-educativo/106232
THE FRENCH REVOLUTION
The French Revolution was a period of huge social and political agitation in France, that lasted from 1789 until 1799. The revolution overturned the monarchy and established a form of democracy. It went through periods of violent political changes and ended up being under the dictatorship of Napoleon Bonaparte. Many of the principles of the revolution were transmitted to Western Europe and beyond. Inspired by liberal and radical ideas, the revolution radically changed the course of modern history, causing a worldwide decline in absolute monarchies and their replacement by democracies.
Based on the orthodox opinion that was dominant until the 20th century, the revolution was classified by the
bourgeoisie which, was encouraged by lectures as Montesquieu, Voltaire and Rousseau whose ideas of freedom, equality and justice inspired citizens to question the old regime and with the central slogan of the triptych "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity", wanted to enhance the existing monarchy by converting it into a constitutional one and not to eliminate it.
https://commons.m.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?search=French=Revolution&title=Special:MediaSearch&type=image
Link >
Sources: Γαλλική επανάσταση (2024,22 Ιουνίου). Wikipedia. https://el.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Γαλλική_Επανάσταση
Writing the constitution
a sudden change
The 1978 Constitution, approved by the Spanish people in a referendum on 6 December, came into force on 29 December of the same year. It was drafted on the basis of negotiations and agreements between the different political parties represented in parliament and has been described as the consensus constitution. It's the core of the Spanish political and legal systems. It is the basis for other rules, fundamental rights and public freedoms, the principles of action of the public authorities and the institutional and territorial organisation of the Spanish State. Spanish citizens were called to a referendum to vote on the Constitution. Following ratification, it entered into force on the same year.Nowadays, we live freely and we have rights thanks to this constitution, it has changed lots of lives.
https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/lang/en/espana/Paginas/constitution.aspxhttps://www.senado.es/web/conocersenado/normas/constitucion/detalleconstitucioncompleta/index.html?lang=en
Abolition of death penalty, 1786
November 30, 1786 is a significant date in the history of the battle fot legal culture and human rights. On this day, the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, under the authority of Grand Duke Leopold of Lorraine, became the first state in the world to put an end to the death penalty. The enhancement was approved by the publication of the Leopoldine Code, a lawmaking act that marked a turning point in the international legal panorama. The abolition of the death penalty is part of the cultural and political context influenced by the Enlightenment, the philosophical movement that called for a renewal of institutions based on logic, justice and humanity. Leopold, inspired by the ideas of Cesare Beccaria, decided to transform the penal system of the Grand Duchy, eliminating not only death penalty, but also torture. The Leopold Code, which came into effect that day, stipulated that "the death penalty shall not be imposed" for any crime, making the Grand Duchy a unique example and forerunner in the ratification oh human rights. Pietro Leopoldo showed that justice could be delivered without resorting to extreme violence, laying the foundations for a more just society that respects human dignity. Although the reform was short-lived (the death penalty was briefly reinstated under Napoleon's reign), the Grand Duchy of Tuscany's symbolic gesture remains a landmark in the history of law. Even today, November 30 is celebrated in Tuscany as Tuscany Day, to remember the region's commitment to the values of justice, peace and equality.
Sources: https://www.ilmoscone.it/2024/11/30-novembre-1786-il-granducato-di-toscana-e-il-primo-stato-al-mondo-ad-abolire-la-pena-di-morte/https://leonardo.ai/
G. Seferis in BCC
George Seferis, the great Greek poet and Nobelist, made a public statement against the dictatorship on the 28th of march 1969 via the BBC. Seferis talks about his concern for the state of the democracy in Greece condemning the dictatorship.
He emphasized that this regime was against the values of freedom and democracy, which are deeply rooted in the history and culture of Greece. He said that the situation he lived in hurt his pride and soul of the Greek people and he asked the return of democracy.
His statement had great impact because it was done by a respected man with international recognition. It gave courage to the Greek people Omit this and attracted the attention of the international community in the country’s problems.
GERMAN STUDENT’S REBELLION 1968
Germany was marked by the 1968 student protests, given the significant effort of students who fought against the conservative system, social inequality, and authoritarianism. Those events were a big resistance action to an oppressive system and caused a shift that transformed the social and political scenery of the nation.
The protests, which had already stemmed from students advocating for their educational rights, escalated in 1967, when a police officer killed Benno Ohnesorg, an unarmed student, during a demonstration against the visit of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the Shah of Iran. The situation intensified a year later when Rudi Dutschke, a prestigious SDS member, the so-called by the press "public enemy" was a victim of attempted assassination. These events crystallized public opposition and transformed the student movement into one of the most decisive forces for change throughout West Germany.
During those years, students organized mass gatherings and demonstrations, which served as a tool for them to voice their multifaceted political and societal opinions. In those gatherings, they questioned the political power of the older generation that was associated with Germany’s Nazi past, demanded the reform of the universities’ structure, and also showed strong critique against the inequitable Vietnam War.
The German students’ protests in 1968 had an influential effect, highlighting the importance of standing up against oppressive forces, reconsidering political beliefs, and helping redefine the university’s rigid structure.
Sources: West German student movement (21 October 2024)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_German_student_movement German Student Movement https://encyclopedia.pub/entry/32698
1968 lives on (04/11/2008April 11, 2008)
https://www.dw.com/en/68-movement-brought-lasting-changes-to-german-society/a-3257581
Canva ai image generator
Franco's death
On 20 November 1975, Spanish General Francisco Franco died in bed, signaling the unceremonious end of one of Europe’s longest dictatorships (1939-1975). He died in La Paz Hospital in Madrid on 20 November 1975, and the long dictatorship finally came to an end. Although it is not clear how or at what point the decision was made, Franco was buried in the Valley of the Fallen on 23 November, after a carefully orchestrated and heavily militarized State funeral which was attended by political, religious and military authorities of the regime.This marked a beginning in the restauration of human rights in Spain.
https://origins.osu.edu/milestones/death-franco-spanish-civil-warhttps://elvalledecuelgamuros.gob.es/en/chronology/death-and-burial-franco
Suffragettes
About a century ago, after a long struggle fought by the "Suffragettes" a women's movement in England, women gained the right to vote. Suffragettes were very intelligent women with political ideas, ambitions, beauty, and elegant clothing. Many young women wanted to be like them. Their struggle began in 1903 in Manchester, and in 1906, their headquarters were moved to London. In 1908, the largest gathering of suffragettes took place, with 80 speakers and 300,000 protesters. The methods they used shocked Britain, as they disrupted public life by destroying property. They broke windows, chained themselves to railings, attacked the National Gallery and participated in many other clashes. They would go on these actions because they believed that peaceful protests would have no real effect and by this way they would attract the attention of the press on the issue of woman suffrage. They felt disappointment and indignation and the property ruin was a symbolic action against the injustice and the oppression.The sacrifice of Emily Davison, who died attempting to throw a banner against King George V's horse in the 1913 derby, was of crucial significance. Hundreds of activists were then imprisoned and went on hunger strikes. By the time of World War I, one thousand suffragettes had been incarcerated in Britain. During the war, the shortage of capable, able-bodied men led women to take on many traditional male roles. This revealed new possibilities for women, and on February 6, 1918, the right for women to vote and be elected in the Parliament was established. The full victory came on July 2, 1928, when men and women were politically equalized.
Designed by Evangelia Lykouresi
Sources:
- Tο Φεμινιστικό Κίνημα για την Ψήφο: οι Σουφραζέτες – Δημοσιογραφία (2022, 7 Ιανουαρίου). Δημοσιογραφία.
- https://dimosiografia.com/to-feministiko-kinima-gia-tin-psifo-oi-soufrazetes/
- Η ιστορία του κινήματος των σουφραζετών - των σημαντικότερων γυναικών του 20ου αιώνα – Μικροπράγματα. Μικροπράγματα. https://mikropragmata.lifo.gr/aksechasta/i-istoria-tou-kinimatos-ton-soufrazeton-ton-simantikoteron-gynaikon-tou-20ou-aiona/
TOBACCO WORKERS’ STRIKE IN THESSALONIKI 1936
On May 8th in 1936, Thessaloniki was alarmed by the strike actions of tobacco workers. The first strikes had already begun in April of the same year. The tobacco workers demanded fairer wages and better working conditions. On May 8th , 7,000 strikers, including artisans, merchants, workers, and tobacco workers, began a large march.
Shortly after, Metaxa’s government enjoined the Third Military corps to be on high alert. The roads of the city were filled with protesters, and the Gendarmerie lost control and began shooting uncontrollably. A total of 12 protesters lost their lives, and over 280 were injured. Finally, the strike drew to a close on May 12th and for the next days Theassaloniki was strictly monitored by the military forces. ERT - Ο Ματωμένος Μάιος στη Θεσσαλονίκη (1936). https://www.ert.gr/ert-arxeio/o-matomenos-maios-sti-thessaloniki-1936/
Georgios Seferis’ burial
A protest against dictatorship
The country was under an oppressive regime of military rule between 1967 and 1974. The first of these started with a coup by some government officials, calling themselves the "Aprilians," on 21 April 1967.
Under the coup, people lived in constant terror of the government and witnessed horrific crimes including cruel torture, political persecutions and last but not least immense censorship. Well known personalities chose to flee the country as to avoid further persecution, but kept fighting against dictatorship by taking advantage of their right to free speech. Such personalities include Mikis Theodorakis, Melina Merkouri and others.
Seferis' death was a significant moment of resistance: thousands attended his funeral, turning it into a protest against the repressive government.They chanted anti-dictatorship slogans and sang poems by Seferis, many of which Mikis Theodorakis had set to music. Living voluntarily outside Greece, Theodorakis could not return to attend the burial, though his music resonated in the voices of the mourners as an ongoing spirit of resistance.
- George Seferis. (2024, November 26). Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia.
- The New York Times, September 23, 1971, Page 38 https://www.nytimes.com/1971/09/23/archives/thousands-protest-regime-at-athe_nsrites-for-seferis.ht
The Spanish civil war
On 17 July 1936 a Nationalist military coup, marking the beginning of the Spanish Civil War, broke out in Spain.The immediate pretext for the revolt, which had been planned since February of that year, was the assassination of the anti-republican right-wing jurist and politician José Calvo Sotelo. He was murdered by the leftist militiamen on 13 July 1936. Three years of bloody fighting followed. General Franco quickly emerged as the Nationalist commander in chief. The main leaders on the Republican side were President Azaña and Prime Ministers Largo Caballero and Negrín. The war ended with a Nationalist victory on April 1, 1939
https://enrs.eu/news/spanish-coup-of-july-1936-beginning-of-the-civil-warhttps://alba-valb.org/lesson/spanish-civil-war-summary/
The start of the 2nd Spanish republic
Another failed attempt
The Second Republic was an attempt to modernize Spain, to reach the level of development of other European countries.The traditional, conservative elite, and traditionally allied with the Spanish church and the army, were unwilling to any of their privileges and power, and opposed the Republic from the start. It started on the 14th of April 1931 after the abdication of King Alfonso XIII, following local and municipal elections in which republican candidates won the majority of votes in urban areas. The abdication led to a provisional government adopted on 9 December 1931. This led to a republican-socialist government. They carried out lots of reforms, such as land distribution, education, women being able to vote, etc. Itb was a period of change and democratic experimentation. However, it didn't last much, it was abolished 5 years later.
https://educaciodigital.cat/ioc-batx/moodle/mod/book/view.php?id=11597&chapterid=7840&lang=eshttps://www.britannica.com/topic/Second-Republic-Spanish-history https://www.donquijote.org/spanish-culture/history/second-spanish-republic/
Greek Revolution
1821 is a year of great significance for the Greek world because it marked the victory over four centuries of Ottoman oppression. The Greeks, influenced by revolutions such as the French one and the educated elites of the Enlightenment, demanded not only their national freedom but also freedom from tyranny and arbitrariness.
What made an incredible difference, however, was the help of other countries to the Greek cause. European philhellenes, were impressed by Greeks’ bravery and the classical civilization. 1830 was the year when Greece declared itself an independent nation and entered the canvas of modern history. The revolution continues to be celebrated as one of the most significant periods of the Greek nation and an embodiment of the fight for freedom and justice which knows no bounds.
Επανάσταση του 1821" by Σταύρος is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
Sources: New World Encyclopedia contributors (2024,25 Μαΐου) Greek War of Independence
https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Greek_War_of_Independence
Beaton R. (2021,11 Ιανουάριο) How the 1821 Greek Revolution Changed the World
https://www.greece-is.com/why-the-1821-greek-revolution-changed-the-world/
THE POLITECNIC UPRISING
The polytechnic uprising (14-17 November 1973)
The Polytechnic uprising started on 14 of November 1973 when the people of Athens were finally fed up with the military junta .Τhe first action against the junta was made by the students , who barricaded the doors of the polytechnic while still being inside the building ,with this action they aimed to get rid of the law that obligated all men to enlist in the national service( which most of the time was military service)and other various decisions that the junta made .Many other citizen soon followed the uprising including the farmers .Sadly the rebellion was quickly suppressed when a military tank bursted through the university’s (the polytechnic) doors on the morning of 17 November, there were 40 deaths and 2.000 people got injured.
The students called themselves “Free Besieged” and their railing cry was the very well known (in Greece): Bread -Education-Liberty. On 16 November the CCO claimed that the students wanted to bring down the current resume and on the afternoon countless buildings were burned and lots of roads were closed. That was also the same day when the students broadcasted in all of Athens the following speech :
Polytechneion here! Polytechneion here! People of Greece, the Polytechneion is the flag bearer of our struggle and your struggle, our common struggle against the dictatorship and for democracy!
But what were the causes of the uprising and why were the people of Greece so angry with the junta? The junta prohibited anyone from expressing their opinion freely or getting together with a large amount of people inside or outside a house, they forbade everyone from going out late at night, the radio only broadcasted the current political matters regarding the junta and lasty whoever disagreed with their opinion was imprisoned. So a rebellion was inevitable.
And even though the rebellion was destroyed it played a crucial role and it lit a glimmer of hope in all the Greek people’s hearts. Today the heroic actions of the students are celebrated on 17 of November.
Sources:Wikipedia & Μαθαίνουμε και αλλιώς(1 Νοε 2021) Η εξέγερση του Πολυτεχνείου - 17η Νοεμβρίου 1973 - Τι γιορτάζουμε ; [Βίντεο]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/vT71KeoA8pk?feature=shared
The Batavian republic
The Batavian Republic (1795–1806) was a short-lived state in the Netherlands, established after the French invasion of the Dutch Republic. It was created as a client state of revolutionary France, adopting French republican ideals and reforms. The republic introduced democratic governance, secularization, land reforms, and the French legal code. However, internal political instability, factional conflicts, and resentment toward French control undermined its effectiveness. In 1806, Napoleon Bonaparte dissolved the Batavian Republic and created the Kingdom of Holland, placing his brother Louis Bonaparte as king. Despite its brief existence, the Batavian Republic played a key role in modernizing Dutch society and paved the way for the eventual formation of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
HISTORY OF HUMAN RIGHTS
Αμαλία Νικολάου
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Transcript
History of Human Rights in Europe
HUMAN Rights
Greece
1936
1887
1821
Publication of Women Newspaper
Strike of Tobacco Workers
Greek Revolution.
Kileler Uprising
3 September Revolution
1910
1843
Home
Next
HUMAN RIGHTS
Greece
1969
1971
1973
1952
Seferis Funeral
Students's Rebelion in Polytechnic University .
......
Women's voting
Seferis Statement
Next
Home
HUMAN RIGHTS
Spain
1975
1978
1931
1939
1936
Death of Franco
Beginning of Franco's dictatorship
Spanish coup d'etat
Writing of the Constitution
2nd Spanish Republic
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Home
HUMAN RIGHTS
France
1968
1789
Student's Rebelion
.....
........
French Revolution
......
Next
Home
HUMAN RIGHTS
Italy
1969
1786
Abolition of Death Penalty.
"Hot" Αutumn
.....
........
......
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Home
hUMAN Rights
Germany
1517
1948
1968
Protestant Reformation.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Students's Rebelion
Home
Next
HUMAN Rights
United KingDom
1918
1811
1215
The magna carta
Luddite movement
Suffragettes
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Home
HUMAN Rights
Netherlands
1795
1811
1433
The batavian republic
Luddite movement
The magna caThe Burgundian s are establ ished under Philip the Good.rta
1517: Protestant Reformation sparks debates over religious freedom, leading to conflicts between Catholics and Protestants.
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The luddite movement
Generated with help from wordart.com/create
Sources: ❖ Evan Andrews, August 21 2023, Who Were the Luddites, HISTORY, https://www.history.com/news/who-were-the-luddites ❖ Christopher Klein, January 04 2019, The Original Luddites Raged Against the Machine of the Industrial Revolution, HISTORY, https://www.history.com/news/industrial-revolution-luddites-workers ❖ History.com Editors, March 27 2023, Industrial Revolution, HISTORY, https://www.history.com/topics/industrial-revolution/industrial-revolution ❖ Jessica Brain, October 06 2018, The Luddites, Historic UK, https://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofBritain/The-Luddites/ ❖ Unknown. 195 years since publication, copyright extinguished, Published in May 1812 by Messrs. Walker and Knight, Sweetings Alley, Royal Exchange, The Leader of the Luddites, https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/eb/Luddite_cropped.jpg
Quiz!
3th Semptember of 1843
However, his autocratic style of governance, his insistence on excluding Greek politicians from government, and his scandalous favoritism toward his fellow Bavarians in public life provoked significant discontent among the Greeks. This dissatisfaction was further exacerbated by Greece's inability to repay loans to the Three Great Powers (England, France, Russia), which imposed restrictions on state expenditures. Many soldiers revolted, and under the leadership of Dimitrios Kallergis, they gathered in the square in front of the Royal Palace. At the same time, a crowd of citizens, led by Makriyannis, a hero of the Greek War of Independence, joined them in front of the palace demanding a constitution. Otto was forced to concede. He accepted the terms set by the revolutionaries and accepted his new role as a "constitutional monarch"
Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
On January 25, 1833, Otto, a Bavarian prince, disembarked at Nafplio to be crowned the first King of the Greeks after the Ottoman rule. Otto sought to establish a functional administration and an organized army.
Sources: • Η μέρα που ο Όθωνας αναγκάστηκε να βγει στο παράθυρο για να αντιμετωπίσει τους επαναστατημένους Έλληνες. Ήταν 3 Σεπτεμβρίου 1843 και ο λαός απαιτούσε Σύνταγμα. Μηχανή του Χρόνου. http://www.mixanitouxronou.gr/i-mera-pou-o-othonas-anagkastike-na-vgi-sto-parathiro-ton-anaktoron-gia-na-antimetopisi-tous-epanastatimenous-ellines-itan-3-septemvriou-1843-ke-o-laos-zitouse-sintagma-ke-tin-exosi-ton-vavaron-apo/http://www.mixanitouxronou.gr/i-mera-pou-o-othonas-anagkastike-na-vgi-sto-parathiro-ton-anaktoron-gia-na-antimetopisi-tous-epanastatimenous-ellines-itan-3-septemvriou-1843-ke-o-laos-zitouse-sintagma-ke-tin-exosi-ton-vavaron-apo/ • 3 Σεπτεμβρίου 1843: Σαν σήμερα η Επανάσταση που έφερε το Σύνταγμα στην Ελλάδα. (03-9-2023). Πρώτο Θέμα. https://www.protothema.gr/stories/article/1408320/3-septemvriou-1843-san-simera-i-epanastasi-pou-efere-to-sudagma-stin-ellada/
The luddite movement
Generated with help from wordart.com/create
Sources: ❖ Evan Andrews, August 21 2023, Who Were the Luddites, HISTORY, https://www.history.com/news/who-were-the-luddites ❖ Christopher Klein, January 04 2019, The Original Luddites Raged Against the Machine of the Industrial Revolution, HISTORY, https://www.history.com/news/industrial-revolution-luddites-workers ❖ History.com Editors, March 27 2023, Industrial Revolution, HISTORY, https://www.history.com/topics/industrial-revolution/industrial-revolution ❖ Jessica Brain, October 06 2018, The Luddites, Historic UK, https://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofBritain/The-Luddites/ ❖ Unknown. 195 years since publication, copyright extinguished, Published in May 1812 by Messrs. Walker and Knight, Sweetings Alley, Royal Exchange, The Leader of the Luddites, https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/eb/Luddite_cropped.jpg
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Kileler Uprising
The Kileler uprising took place in Thessaly in March 1910, while Greece was still a kingdom. The local farmers rebelled protesting against the limited rights they had, in contrast to the wealthy landowners who were offered numerous privileges . Additionally they were asking for better working conditions, tax reduction and for their rights to be restored. In 1906, Marinos Antipas went to the region and was shocked to see the inhumane conditions there and tried to awaken the locals. Some would believe that Antipas was a priest or a teacher due to the way he talked about human rights, education, Sunday holiday, a doctor’s presence in the region etc. Accordingly, the locals requested to travel to Larissa without paying for a ticket, since they did not have enough money to do so. However, the request was declined and the farmers came into conflict with the station master, who asked for the police to be involved. When the police arrived some of them attacked the protestors, killing two and injuring many others. The news spread quickly across the town and the conflicts between officers and farmers worsened. Τhe uprising ended on the 10th of March 1910 after some police officers started shooting the farmers in cold blood. Afterwards, loads of farmers were tried but none of them was convicted. In the end, the government’s need to use farmers as soldiers and the integration of the Greek refugees from Minor Asia led to the law enforcement concerning the redistribution of land. The importance of the farmers’ uprising remains up-to-date and is of significant value as it is still a source of inspiration to fight for justice and equality.
Sources
Publication of Women Newsapaer
The newspaper, which was first published on March 8, 1887 under the name of "Newspaper of the Ladies," was the first newspaper in Greece to be written exclusively by women for women. The organizer of the newspaper was the journalist, educator and pioneering feminist Callirhoe Paren. In the beginning, she signed her articles under the name of Eva Prenar. The Newspaper of the Ladies aimed at the social elevation of women, their equality with men and the ensuring of full rights in education and work. The effort for the emancipation of women through the newspaper sparked mixed reactions. On the one hand, there were those who expressed derogatory remarks, claiming that the professions suitable for women were those of the housewife and the courtesan. On the other hand others supported their battle and admired the penmanship of the newspaper's editors. The newspaper became a forerunner of the feminist movement in Greece and led to the creation of the first serious women's. The Newspaper of the Ladies ceased publication in 1918 when Callirhoe Paren was exiled to Hydra for her political views.
Public Domain
Sources: Εφημερίς των Κυριών. Σαν Σήμερα. https://www.sansimera.gr/articles/605
Hot Autumn 1969
In the fall of 1969, Italy went through a lot of changes in the world of work. This period is called the hot autumn. There were many clashes between workers and their bosses. More people joined in, including workers, students, the unemployed, and everyday people. Tensions had been building for two years. Management wasn't paying attention to workers' problems, and things finally boiled over. Workers started ignoring no-strike agreements. They united to ask for better pay and shorter hours. But this movement stood for more than just money. It also raised big questions about society and politics. At the same time, students were protesting too. This made the situation messier because the government was divided. Three main political parties were involved: the Christian Democrats on the center-left, the Socialist Party on the left, and the Communist Party. National unions faced their troubles. Their members wanted more say in things. Three big unions played important roles: the CGIL, which worked with leftist groups; the CISL, made up of Christian Democrats and some socialists; and the UIL, which included socialists and republicans. Nevertheless, even with their differences, they all knew they had to come together during this tough time to fight for their rights.
Operai della Pirelli in sciopero all'uscita della fabbrica a Milano, autunno 1969. Creative Commons
Sources: Hot Autumn. www.encyclopedia.com. https://www.encyclopedia.com/history/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/hot-autumn
May of 68'
May 1968 in France was a period of important social and political change. It all started with student protests, as they demanded changes to the old and restrictive education system, which was overcrowded and lacked freedom. What began in Paris quickly spread across France when violent conflicts between the police and protesters sparked anger and annoyance. Workers soon joined in, starting a huge work stoppage that involved over 10 million people. As factories shut down and transportation stopped working ,the economy stopped developing, raising fears of a possible revolution. Although the protests did not remove Charles de Gaulle’s government, they had a big impact on French society. Earnings increased, working conditions improved, and the events of May 1968 led to important discussions about equality, freedom, and the need to challenge old systems. The movement inspired similar actions around the world, showing the power of people to demand change. It also inspired movements for social justice and the rights of minorities, focusing on the importance of free speech and artistic expression. Furthermore, it showed the importance of fight for human rights,which led people to care more about equality and the protection of freedom, motivating them to stand up against unfairness and work towards making a fair word.
sources: May 68 (2024, 24 Νοεμβρίου) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/May_68 Wolin R. ,events of May 1968 Events of May 1968 | Background, Significance, & Facts | Britannica Ed (2006, 8 September) 1968: a chronology of events in France and internationally 1968: a chronology of events in France and internationally | libcom.org
Robert Schediwy, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Protestant Reformation
The Middle Ages had ended a couple of centuries ago, but it would be hard for Europe to recover. There was still poverty, famine, wars and power struggles left and right and new nations and their kings or emperors rising to power, taking advantage of their people for land and wealth. But by far the most powerfull man in Europe and arguably the world, was the pope of the Roman Catholic Christian Church, who used all the Christian leaders like puppets since he owned 1/3 of all land in Europe in the 16th century. Martin Luther, born on the 10th of November 1483 in Eisleben, Saxony in the Holy Roman Empire (today’s Germany).After he had a near death exrerience while returning from law school, he became a monk at St. Augustine’s Monastery on the 17th of July 1505. In 1507 he was ordained in the Erfurt Cathedral and one year later became a teacher in theology in the university of Wittenberg. He became disapointed at the Church after his trip to Rome thinking it was too corrupt and after he analyzed some verses from the Bible he came to the understanding that salvation comes only through faith and not works. What really triggered the Reformation was the arrival of Johhan Tetzel in Germany to sell indulgences, which were permits sold by the Church to people so their sins are forgiven. Luther was enraged by the corruption of the Church and wrote 95 theses or arguments against them and he either mailed them to the town bishop or nailed them on the doors of All Saints Church on 31 October 1517. Even though he tried to defend his views in front of Church officials, he was declared a heretic and was excommunicated by Pope Leo X in 1521. Even though he was kicked out of the Church he still managed to spread his words all across Europe by using the printing press and translating the Bible from Latin,which was only known to the clergy, to German, English and French.Later that year he was called to defend his belifes in front of Emperor Charles V of the Holy Roman Empire in the city of Worms. There, he concluded his apology speech by saying:«Unless I am convinced by the testimony of the Scriptures or by clear reason, i am bound by the Scriptures I have quoted, and my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and will not recant anything since it is neither safe nor right to go against conscience. May God help me. Amen.»
Sources:
Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
THE MAGNA CARTA
The Magna Carta translates to “Great Charter”, and is a determining file that registers English political liberties and was institutionalized at Runnymede, a savannah by the River Thames. Moreover, it was arranged by King John on June 15, 1215, under pressure from subversive peers of his that were asking for their rights. Via the Magna Carta , not only did the monarch of the time have to obey the laws but he also had to keep track of the liberties settled by “free men”. Moreover , it acted as a blueprint for individual rights in Anglo-American jurisprudence. Throughout the Magna Carta’s provisions there were chapters that advocated for a free church, groundbreaking for the law , since it resulted in revising the law and justice, and limiting the irrational power of the aristocrats and people with high end positions in general. It is also important to mention that nobody could adjust the law to their preference or need , even and the King . Additionally this historic document , played a crucial role on the development of laws all around the globe. The Magna Carta , was restudied by King Henry the third in his attempt to counter the efforts that the King of France with the support of the barons had been making to win the control of England. To conclude , omit “ after “some reconsiderations omit “that” took place in 1217, due to a new policy , in 1223 for religious purposes , and finally in 1225.
The Excellent priviledge of liberty and property: being a reprint and facsimile of the first American edition of Magna Charta , belongs to Yale Law Library and is licensed under CC-BY-2.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=99631107
Sources : Magna carta , Doris Mary Stenton https://www.britannica.com/topic/Magna-Carta
Universal Declaration of Human Rights
It is one of the historical documents created by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948. The great milestone in the development of international law, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, specifies the fundamental human rights to be protected by every country and provides for the inviolable dignity, equality, and inalienable rights of every person regardless of theyr race, sex, nationality, or religion. Apart from the right to life and freedom of speech, education, and equality before the law, the UDHR includes civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights in 30 articles. It was conceived in the aftermath of the World War II, and thus it is the basis of international law regarding human rights. This inspired a lot of separate treaties, national constitutions and codes of law all over the world. UDHR stands for a global desire for justice and respect for human beings upon which countries should operate and work to establish peace, freedom, and equality .This is the light for advocacy today in human rights.
Sources:
THE MAGNA CARTA
The Magna Carta translates to “Great Charter”, and is a determining file that registers English political liberties and was institutionalized at Runnymede, a savannah by the River Thames. Moreover, it was arranged by King John on June 15, 1215, under pressure from subversive peers of his that were asking for their rights. Via the Magna Carta , not only did the monarch of the time have to obey the laws but he also had to keep track of the liberties settled by “free men”. Moreover , it acted as a blueprint for individual rights in Anglo-American jurisprudence. Throughout the Magna Carta’s provisions there were chapters that advocated for a free church, groundbreaking for the law , since it resulted in revising the law and justice, and limiting the irrational power of the aristocrats and people with high end positions in general. It is also important to mention that nobody could adjust the law to their preference or need , even and the King . Additionally this historic document , played a crucial role on the development of laws all around the globe. The Magna Carta , was restudied by King Henry the third in his attempt to counter the efforts that the King of France with the support of the barons had been making to win the control of England. To conclude , omit “ after “some reconsiderations omit “that” took place in 1217, due to a new policy , in 1223 for religious purposes , and finally in 1225.
Sources : Magna carta , Doris Mary Stenton https://www.britannica.com/topic/Magna-Carta
The Excellent priviledge of liberty and property: being a reprint and facsimile of the first American edition of Magna Charta , belongs to Yale Law Library and is licensed under CC-BY-2.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=99631107
Women’s Right to Vote in Greece
Greek women won the right to be elected in Parliament on May 28, 1952, after many years of struggling for it. Kallirhoe Parren, 1861-1940, . She was one of the most important figures in the struggle for equality. She founded the newspaper of the ladies 1887, the first women's newspaper, Furthermore, she collaborated with women's movements in both Europe and America to demand equal rights, such as the right to vote. The idea of women voting was often laughed at in newspapers as people thought it was dangerous because they thought women weren't rational, especially during certain times of the month.. Nevertheless, women's suffrage arrived in Greece in 1930 but with many limitations: the right to vote was extended only to women who were over 30 years old and had completed at least elementary schooling although this came significantly later than in most other European countries namely Finland in 1906, Norway in 1917, Germany in 1919, and Britain in 1928. The first Greek women voted in municipal elections on February 11, 1934. Still, very few registered. In Athens, only 2,655 women were enrolled on the voting list. The majority of women in rich families thought it was not proper to vote. According to the famous actress Marika Kotopouli voting was for ugly women and those who did not care about being mothers. After World War II and the Greek Civil War, the fight for women's rights gained attention again. Women finally got to vote in parliamentary elections on May 28, 1952. But, they couldn't vote in those elections later that year because the voter rolls had not been updated in time. Finally it was in 1953 when women were compensated as Eleni Skoura from the Hellenic Alert Party was elected as a deputy in Thessaloniki and became the first woman to be elected. As well as that, there was another female candidate named Virginia Zanna from the Liberal Party.
Greek women won the right to be elected to Parliament in 1952. Public Domain
Sources:
Franco's dictatorship
lack of freedom
The first decade of his government saw harsh repression by military tribunals, political purges, and economic hardship. Economic recovery was made difficult by the destruction during the Civil War (especially of railway and communications in general), a loss of skilled labour, a series of bad droughts, and a shortage of foreign exchange and the restriction on imports of capital goods imposed by World War II and its aftermath. Nevertheless, Franco demanded France’s North African colonies in compensation for military cooperation against the Western Allies, on who Spain was dependent for food and oil imports. Hitler refused. Franco reaffirmed Spain’s nominal neutrality without gaining their benevolence. Even thought, there was something called "white terror", reffering to acts of politically motivated violence, rape, and other crimes committed by the Nationalist during the dictatorship. This was a huge step backwards in terms of human rights
https://www.britannica.com/place/Spain/Francos-Spain-1939-75http://es.tiching.com/white-terror-the-civil-war-in-spain/recurso-educativo/106232
THE FRENCH REVOLUTION
The French Revolution was a period of huge social and political agitation in France, that lasted from 1789 until 1799. The revolution overturned the monarchy and established a form of democracy. It went through periods of violent political changes and ended up being under the dictatorship of Napoleon Bonaparte. Many of the principles of the revolution were transmitted to Western Europe and beyond. Inspired by liberal and radical ideas, the revolution radically changed the course of modern history, causing a worldwide decline in absolute monarchies and their replacement by democracies. Based on the orthodox opinion that was dominant until the 20th century, the revolution was classified by the bourgeoisie which, was encouraged by lectures as Montesquieu, Voltaire and Rousseau whose ideas of freedom, equality and justice inspired citizens to question the old regime and with the central slogan of the triptych "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity", wanted to enhance the existing monarchy by converting it into a constitutional one and not to eliminate it.
https://commons.m.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?search=French=Revolution&title=Special:MediaSearch&type=image
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Sources: Γαλλική επανάσταση (2024,22 Ιουνίου). Wikipedia. https://el.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Γαλλική_Επανάσταση
Writing the constitution
a sudden change
The 1978 Constitution, approved by the Spanish people in a referendum on 6 December, came into force on 29 December of the same year. It was drafted on the basis of negotiations and agreements between the different political parties represented in parliament and has been described as the consensus constitution. It's the core of the Spanish political and legal systems. It is the basis for other rules, fundamental rights and public freedoms, the principles of action of the public authorities and the institutional and territorial organisation of the Spanish State. Spanish citizens were called to a referendum to vote on the Constitution. Following ratification, it entered into force on the same year.Nowadays, we live freely and we have rights thanks to this constitution, it has changed lots of lives.
https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/lang/en/espana/Paginas/constitution.aspxhttps://www.senado.es/web/conocersenado/normas/constitucion/detalleconstitucioncompleta/index.html?lang=en
Abolition of death penalty, 1786
November 30, 1786 is a significant date in the history of the battle fot legal culture and human rights. On this day, the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, under the authority of Grand Duke Leopold of Lorraine, became the first state in the world to put an end to the death penalty. The enhancement was approved by the publication of the Leopoldine Code, a lawmaking act that marked a turning point in the international legal panorama. The abolition of the death penalty is part of the cultural and political context influenced by the Enlightenment, the philosophical movement that called for a renewal of institutions based on logic, justice and humanity. Leopold, inspired by the ideas of Cesare Beccaria, decided to transform the penal system of the Grand Duchy, eliminating not only death penalty, but also torture. The Leopold Code, which came into effect that day, stipulated that "the death penalty shall not be imposed" for any crime, making the Grand Duchy a unique example and forerunner in the ratification oh human rights. Pietro Leopoldo showed that justice could be delivered without resorting to extreme violence, laying the foundations for a more just society that respects human dignity. Although the reform was short-lived (the death penalty was briefly reinstated under Napoleon's reign), the Grand Duchy of Tuscany's symbolic gesture remains a landmark in the history of law. Even today, November 30 is celebrated in Tuscany as Tuscany Day, to remember the region's commitment to the values of justice, peace and equality.
Sources: https://www.ilmoscone.it/2024/11/30-novembre-1786-il-granducato-di-toscana-e-il-primo-stato-al-mondo-ad-abolire-la-pena-di-morte/https://leonardo.ai/
G. Seferis in BCC
George Seferis, the great Greek poet and Nobelist, made a public statement against the dictatorship on the 28th of march 1969 via the BBC. Seferis talks about his concern for the state of the democracy in Greece condemning the dictatorship. He emphasized that this regime was against the values of freedom and democracy, which are deeply rooted in the history and culture of Greece. He said that the situation he lived in hurt his pride and soul of the Greek people and he asked the return of democracy. His statement had great impact because it was done by a respected man with international recognition. It gave courage to the Greek people Omit this and attracted the attention of the international community in the country’s problems.
GERMAN STUDENT’S REBELLION 1968
Germany was marked by the 1968 student protests, given the significant effort of students who fought against the conservative system, social inequality, and authoritarianism. Those events were a big resistance action to an oppressive system and caused a shift that transformed the social and political scenery of the nation. The protests, which had already stemmed from students advocating for their educational rights, escalated in 1967, when a police officer killed Benno Ohnesorg, an unarmed student, during a demonstration against the visit of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the Shah of Iran. The situation intensified a year later when Rudi Dutschke, a prestigious SDS member, the so-called by the press "public enemy" was a victim of attempted assassination. These events crystallized public opposition and transformed the student movement into one of the most decisive forces for change throughout West Germany.
During those years, students organized mass gatherings and demonstrations, which served as a tool for them to voice their multifaceted political and societal opinions. In those gatherings, they questioned the political power of the older generation that was associated with Germany’s Nazi past, demanded the reform of the universities’ structure, and also showed strong critique against the inequitable Vietnam War. The German students’ protests in 1968 had an influential effect, highlighting the importance of standing up against oppressive forces, reconsidering political beliefs, and helping redefine the university’s rigid structure.
Sources: West German student movement (21 October 2024) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_German_student_movement German Student Movement https://encyclopedia.pub/entry/32698 1968 lives on (04/11/2008April 11, 2008) https://www.dw.com/en/68-movement-brought-lasting-changes-to-german-society/a-3257581
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Franco's death
On 20 November 1975, Spanish General Francisco Franco died in bed, signaling the unceremonious end of one of Europe’s longest dictatorships (1939-1975). He died in La Paz Hospital in Madrid on 20 November 1975, and the long dictatorship finally came to an end. Although it is not clear how or at what point the decision was made, Franco was buried in the Valley of the Fallen on 23 November, after a carefully orchestrated and heavily militarized State funeral which was attended by political, religious and military authorities of the regime.This marked a beginning in the restauration of human rights in Spain.
https://origins.osu.edu/milestones/death-franco-spanish-civil-warhttps://elvalledecuelgamuros.gob.es/en/chronology/death-and-burial-franco
Suffragettes
About a century ago, after a long struggle fought by the "Suffragettes" a women's movement in England, women gained the right to vote. Suffragettes were very intelligent women with political ideas, ambitions, beauty, and elegant clothing. Many young women wanted to be like them. Their struggle began in 1903 in Manchester, and in 1906, their headquarters were moved to London. In 1908, the largest gathering of suffragettes took place, with 80 speakers and 300,000 protesters. The methods they used shocked Britain, as they disrupted public life by destroying property. They broke windows, chained themselves to railings, attacked the National Gallery and participated in many other clashes. They would go on these actions because they believed that peaceful protests would have no real effect and by this way they would attract the attention of the press on the issue of woman suffrage. They felt disappointment and indignation and the property ruin was a symbolic action against the injustice and the oppression.The sacrifice of Emily Davison, who died attempting to throw a banner against King George V's horse in the 1913 derby, was of crucial significance. Hundreds of activists were then imprisoned and went on hunger strikes. By the time of World War I, one thousand suffragettes had been incarcerated in Britain. During the war, the shortage of capable, able-bodied men led women to take on many traditional male roles. This revealed new possibilities for women, and on February 6, 1918, the right for women to vote and be elected in the Parliament was established. The full victory came on July 2, 1928, when men and women were politically equalized.
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TOBACCO WORKERS’ STRIKE IN THESSALONIKI 1936
On May 8th in 1936, Thessaloniki was alarmed by the strike actions of tobacco workers. The first strikes had already begun in April of the same year. The tobacco workers demanded fairer wages and better working conditions. On May 8th , 7,000 strikers, including artisans, merchants, workers, and tobacco workers, began a large march. Shortly after, Metaxa’s government enjoined the Third Military corps to be on high alert. The roads of the city were filled with protesters, and the Gendarmerie lost control and began shooting uncontrollably. A total of 12 protesters lost their lives, and over 280 were injured. Finally, the strike drew to a close on May 12th and for the next days Theassaloniki was strictly monitored by the military forces. ERT - Ο Ματωμένος Μάιος στη Θεσσαλονίκη (1936). https://www.ert.gr/ert-arxeio/o-matomenos-maios-sti-thessaloniki-1936/
Georgios Seferis’ burial
A protest against dictatorship
The country was under an oppressive regime of military rule between 1967 and 1974. The first of these started with a coup by some government officials, calling themselves the "Aprilians," on 21 April 1967.
Under the coup, people lived in constant terror of the government and witnessed horrific crimes including cruel torture, political persecutions and last but not least immense censorship. Well known personalities chose to flee the country as to avoid further persecution, but kept fighting against dictatorship by taking advantage of their right to free speech. Such personalities include Mikis Theodorakis, Melina Merkouri and others.
Seferis' death was a significant moment of resistance: thousands attended his funeral, turning it into a protest against the repressive government.They chanted anti-dictatorship slogans and sang poems by Seferis, many of which Mikis Theodorakis had set to music. Living voluntarily outside Greece, Theodorakis could not return to attend the burial, though his music resonated in the voices of the mourners as an ongoing spirit of resistance.
The Spanish civil war
On 17 July 1936 a Nationalist military coup, marking the beginning of the Spanish Civil War, broke out in Spain.The immediate pretext for the revolt, which had been planned since February of that year, was the assassination of the anti-republican right-wing jurist and politician José Calvo Sotelo. He was murdered by the leftist militiamen on 13 July 1936. Three years of bloody fighting followed. General Franco quickly emerged as the Nationalist commander in chief. The main leaders on the Republican side were President Azaña and Prime Ministers Largo Caballero and Negrín. The war ended with a Nationalist victory on April 1, 1939
https://enrs.eu/news/spanish-coup-of-july-1936-beginning-of-the-civil-warhttps://alba-valb.org/lesson/spanish-civil-war-summary/
The start of the 2nd Spanish republic
Another failed attempt
The Second Republic was an attempt to modernize Spain, to reach the level of development of other European countries.The traditional, conservative elite, and traditionally allied with the Spanish church and the army, were unwilling to any of their privileges and power, and opposed the Republic from the start. It started on the 14th of April 1931 after the abdication of King Alfonso XIII, following local and municipal elections in which republican candidates won the majority of votes in urban areas. The abdication led to a provisional government adopted on 9 December 1931. This led to a republican-socialist government. They carried out lots of reforms, such as land distribution, education, women being able to vote, etc. Itb was a period of change and democratic experimentation. However, it didn't last much, it was abolished 5 years later.
https://educaciodigital.cat/ioc-batx/moodle/mod/book/view.php?id=11597&chapterid=7840&lang=eshttps://www.britannica.com/topic/Second-Republic-Spanish-history https://www.donquijote.org/spanish-culture/history/second-spanish-republic/
Greek Revolution
1821 is a year of great significance for the Greek world because it marked the victory over four centuries of Ottoman oppression. The Greeks, influenced by revolutions such as the French one and the educated elites of the Enlightenment, demanded not only their national freedom but also freedom from tyranny and arbitrariness. What made an incredible difference, however, was the help of other countries to the Greek cause. European philhellenes, were impressed by Greeks’ bravery and the classical civilization. 1830 was the year when Greece declared itself an independent nation and entered the canvas of modern history. The revolution continues to be celebrated as one of the most significant periods of the Greek nation and an embodiment of the fight for freedom and justice which knows no bounds.
Επανάσταση του 1821" by Σταύρος is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
Sources: New World Encyclopedia contributors (2024,25 Μαΐου) Greek War of Independence https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Greek_War_of_Independence Beaton R. (2021,11 Ιανουάριο) How the 1821 Greek Revolution Changed the World https://www.greece-is.com/why-the-1821-greek-revolution-changed-the-world/
THE POLITECNIC UPRISING
The polytechnic uprising (14-17 November 1973) The Polytechnic uprising started on 14 of November 1973 when the people of Athens were finally fed up with the military junta .Τhe first action against the junta was made by the students , who barricaded the doors of the polytechnic while still being inside the building ,with this action they aimed to get rid of the law that obligated all men to enlist in the national service( which most of the time was military service)and other various decisions that the junta made .Many other citizen soon followed the uprising including the farmers .Sadly the rebellion was quickly suppressed when a military tank bursted through the university’s (the polytechnic) doors on the morning of 17 November, there were 40 deaths and 2.000 people got injured. The students called themselves “Free Besieged” and their railing cry was the very well known (in Greece): Bread -Education-Liberty. On 16 November the CCO claimed that the students wanted to bring down the current resume and on the afternoon countless buildings were burned and lots of roads were closed. That was also the same day when the students broadcasted in all of Athens the following speech : Polytechneion here! Polytechneion here! People of Greece, the Polytechneion is the flag bearer of our struggle and your struggle, our common struggle against the dictatorship and for democracy! But what were the causes of the uprising and why were the people of Greece so angry with the junta? The junta prohibited anyone from expressing their opinion freely or getting together with a large amount of people inside or outside a house, they forbade everyone from going out late at night, the radio only broadcasted the current political matters regarding the junta and lasty whoever disagreed with their opinion was imprisoned. So a rebellion was inevitable. And even though the rebellion was destroyed it played a crucial role and it lit a glimmer of hope in all the Greek people’s hearts. Today the heroic actions of the students are celebrated on 17 of November.
Sources:Wikipedia & Μαθαίνουμε και αλλιώς(1 Νοε 2021) Η εξέγερση του Πολυτεχνείου - 17η Νοεμβρίου 1973 - Τι γιορτάζουμε ; [Βίντεο]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/vT71KeoA8pk?feature=shared
The Batavian republic
The Batavian Republic (1795–1806) was a short-lived state in the Netherlands, established after the French invasion of the Dutch Republic. It was created as a client state of revolutionary France, adopting French republican ideals and reforms. The republic introduced democratic governance, secularization, land reforms, and the French legal code. However, internal political instability, factional conflicts, and resentment toward French control undermined its effectiveness. In 1806, Napoleon Bonaparte dissolved the Batavian Republic and created the Kingdom of Holland, placing his brother Louis Bonaparte as king. Despite its brief existence, the Batavian Republic played a key role in modernizing Dutch society and paved the way for the eventual formation of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.