Microsoft Word maps-in-time doc

The Middle East and the Mediterranean
Yemen:
In 1970 the Republic of South Yemen is renamed the People's 
Republic of South Yemen. 
Persian Gulf:
In 1971 Bahrain ceases to be a British protectorate. Qatar and 
Oman gain independence from Britain and Oman is renamed the Sultanate of 
Oman. In 1972, when British treaty arrangements with the Trucial Sheikhdoms 
end, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is created. 
Cyprus: 
In 1974 Turkey invades Cyprus and partitions it into Turkish Northern 
Cyprus and the Greek Republic of Cyprus. 
Afghanistan:
In 1979 Afghanistan is invaded by the USSR. 
Iran:
In 1979, following the revolution and the deposing of the Shah, Iran is 
renamed the Islamic Republic of Iran. 

---

37 
Geopolitical changes from 1980 to 1990 
The Communist Bloc fell in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Soviet 
decolonisation began with the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan. The break-
up of Soviet influence and dissolution of the world’s last empire would come to 
fruition in the decade ahead. 
Africa and the Middle East 
Zimbabwe:
In 1980 Southern Rhodesia is renamed Zimbabwe. 
Burkina Faso:
In 1984 Upper Volta renames itself Burkina Faso. 
Afghanistan:
In 1988, after years of fighting, USSR forces withdraw from 
Afghanistan. 
Asia and Australasia 
New Hebrides:
In 1980 Britain grants independence to the New Hebrides and 
they are renamed Vanuatu. 

---

38 
Brunei:
In 1984 Brunei gains independence from Britain. 
Union of Myanmar:
In 1989 Burma renames itself the Union of Myanmar.