Armenian Secret Army for the Liberation of Armenia facts for kids
The Armenian Secret Army for the Liberation of Armenia (ASALA) was a group that operated from 1975 to 1986. It aimed to make the Turkish Government admit responsibility for the deaths of many Armenians in 1915. ASALA also wanted Turkey to pay money and give land for an Armenian homeland.
This group was started in 1975 in Beirut, Lebanon. Its founders were Hagop Hagopian and Kevork Ajemian, a well-known writer.
What Was ASALA's Goal?
ASALA's main goal was to get the Turkish government to recognize the events of 1915. They believed that 1.5 million Armenians died during that time. They also wanted money paid to Armenian families and land given for an Armenian homeland.
How ASALA Operated
The group mainly carried out attacks on Turkish diplomats and politicians. These attacks happened in places like Western Europe, the United States, and the Middle East.
- One attack in Geneva on October 3, 1980, did not go as planned. Two Armenian members were hurt.
- After this, the group sometimes became known as the "3 October Organization."
- In 1981, ASALA published its main ideas in a document called a manifesto.
Turkey's Response
Because of the ongoing attacks, Turkey accused several countries of helping ASALA. These countries included Cyprus, Greece, Syria, Lebanon, and the Soviet Union. However, no proof was ever found to support these claims.
Turkish officials sometimes used the idea of working with ASALA to accuse other groups. They especially targeted Turkish opposition groups that had strong left-wing political views.
Images for kids
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Countries where ASALA made attacks between 1975-1985.
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Memorial to the fallen diplomats at the site of the attack on Atilla Altıkat in Ottawa, Canada.
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The ASALA memorial in the military cemetery of Yerablur, Yerevan
See also
In Spanish: Ejército Secreto Armenio para la Liberación de Armenia para niños
