Withdrawal from Aden facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Withdrawal from Aden |
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Part of Aden Emergency | |||||
![]() Sir Humphrey Trevelyan waving to departing British helicopters on 30 November 1967. |
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Belligerents | |||||
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![]() Front for the Liberation of Occupied South Yemen |
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Commanders and leaders | |||||
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Unknown | ||||
Strength | |||||
3,500 | unknown |
The Withdrawal from Aden was a big moment in history. It was when the British army left the place called Aden. This happened on November 30, 1967. It marked the end of British rule in Aden, which had lasted for 128 years.
Aden is a city and port located in what is now Yemen. For a long time, it was an important British colony. A colony is a territory controlled by another country, often far away.
Contents
What Was the Aden Emergency?
The British withdrawal was the end of a difficult time. This period was known as the Aden Emergency. An "emergency" often means a time of serious trouble or conflict.
Why Did the Emergency Happen?
The Aden Emergency was a fight for independence. Many people in Aden wanted to govern themselves. They no longer wanted to be ruled by the British. This led to protests and fighting.
Who Was Involved in the Conflict?
The main groups fighting were the British forces. They were trying to keep control. On the other side were local groups. These groups wanted Aden to be free. Two main groups were the National Liberation Front (NLF) and the Front for the Liberation of Occupied South Yemen (FLOSY).
What Was the Goal of the Local Groups?
These groups wanted to create an independent country. They wanted to form the People's Republic of South Yemen. This new country would be run by the people of Aden.
The Final Days of British Rule
As the fighting continued, the British decided to leave. It was clear that staying was becoming too difficult. They planned a careful exit from Aden.
Who Was Sir Humphrey Trevelyan?
Sir Humphrey Trevelyan was a very important British official. He was the High Commissioner for Aden. This means he was the top British leader there. He was in charge of the British government in Aden.
What Was His Role in the Withdrawal?
Sir Humphrey Trevelyan played a key role. He oversaw the final steps of the British departure. On November 30, 1967, he boarded an RAF aircraft. This happened at RAF Khormaksar, a British air base. It was a short ceremony, marking the end of an era.
Which Troops Left Last?
The very last British soldiers to leave Aden were from the Royal Engineers. These are special army units. They are known for building things and for their engineering skills. Their departure marked the absolute end of the British presence.
What Happened After the Withdrawal?
After the British left, Aden became part of a new country. This country was called the People's Republic of South Yemen. It was formed on November 30, 1967, the same day the British left.
How Did This Affect the Region?
The withdrawal changed the political map of the Middle East. It showed that former colonies could gain independence. It was a big step for the people of Aden. They finally had their own country.