Skopje

In April 1941, Axis forces, including Nazi Germany, invaded Yugoslavia during World War II. On April 9, Skopje was occupied by German forces as part of the broader invasion campaign. This led to changes in the city's administration and the persecution of certain ethnic groups, including Jews. The occupation lasted until the liberation by the Partisans in 1944. The era was marked by harsh conditions, resistance efforts, and significant historical events that shaped the region's future.

On July 26, 1963, a devastating earthquake struck Skopje, the capital city of what was then Yugoslav Macedonia. The earthquake, which measured 6.1 on the Richter scale, resulted in the destruction of about 80% of the city, left more than 1,070 people dead, and displaced over 200,000 residents. The earthquake prompted an international relief effort to rebuild the city, drawing aid from around the world. This disaster had a profound impact on the city, leading to significant urban redevelopment projects.

On September 8, 1991, Macedonia held a referendum in which the majority of the population voted for independence from Yugoslavia. This historical event marked the birth of the Republic of Macedonia as a sovereign state. Skopje, as the capital, played a central role in the political and administrative processes that followed. The country's subsequent journey involved establishing diplomatic relationships, joining international organizations, and building a national identity amid regional challenges. The independence was officially recognized by the United Nations in 1993.

On October 9, 1995, an assassination attempt was made on the life of Kiro Gligorov, the first president of independent Macedonia. A car bomb exploded in central Skopje as Gligorov's vehicle passed by, causing severe injuries to the president and killing his driver. This event sent shockwaves through the young nation and drew international attention. Despite severe injuries, Gligorov survived and continued his presidency after a recovery period, marking a crucial point in Macedonia's early political history.

During the Kosovo War in 1999, a humanitarian crisis unfolded as large numbers of ethnic Albanian refugees fled the conflict and sought refuge in neighboring regions. On June 24, Skopje and other parts of Macedonia became crucial transit and settlement areas for over 360,000 refugees. The influx strained the country's resources but also highlighted the region's solidarity and humanity in the face of crisis. International organizations provided assistance, and Macedonia's role was pivotal in managing this large-scale humanitarian response.

In 2001, Macedonia experienced an armed conflict involving ethnic Albanian insurgents. The insurgency peaked during the spring and summer months and led to many clashes, notably affecting areas around Skopje and Tetovo. On June 13, 2001, significant hostilities were reported near the capital. The conflict posed challenges to the country’s stability and ethnic relations. It concluded later in the year with the Ohrid Framework Agreement, which provided for greater rights to ethnic Albanians and is seen as a crucial step in maintaining peace and fostering ethnic collaboration in the country.

During the NATO summit on April 3, 2008, Macedonia's bid to join the alliance was blocked due to the ongoing name dispute with Greece over the use of the name 'Macedonia.' Greece's objection led to a major diplomatic standoff at the summit in Bucharest. The incident highlighted the geopolitical and cultural sensitivities in the Balkans and delayed Macedonia's aspirations to join NATO. The dispute was eventually resolved with the Prespa Agreement in 2018, allowing the country's accession to NATO, finally realized in 2020.

The Skopje 2014 project was a major urban development plan initiated by the government of North Macedonia aimed at giving the capital a more classical look. The project, officially launched on May 4, 2014, entailed the construction of numerous buildings, bridges, and monuments throughout central Skopje. It sparked controversy and debate over its costs, aesthetic choices, and historical implications. While some viewed it as a revitalization effort, others criticized it for historical inaccuracies and extravagant spending.

On May 9, 2015, violent clashes occurred in the town of Kumanovo, near Skopje, involving Macedonian police and an armed group linked to ethnic Albanian militants. The incident led to intense urban warfare conditions for over 24 hours and resulted in casualties on both sides. The shootings heightened ethnic tensions and political instability at a time when Macedonia was already facing a political crisis. The aftermath included calls for political dialogue and reforms to address underlying ethnic and political issues in the country.

The Colorful Revolution was a series of protests that started in Skopje on April 12, 2016, in response to President Gjorge Ivanov's decision to pardon 56 officials implicated in a wiretapping scandal. Protesters, carrying paint-filled water balloons, demanded accountability and an end to corruption. These demonstrations were part of a broader movement for political reform and transparency in governance. The name comes from the colorful paint sprayed by protesters against government buildings, symbolizing a vibrant demand for change.