Azerbaijan's Independence Struggle Course Overview Azerbaijan's journey to independence is a profound chapter in its history, marked by political struggles, military conflicts, and the determination of its people. Here's a structured description of the major phases and events: 1. Background and Context Soviet Union Collapse: Azerbaijan was part of the Soviet Union for much of the 20th century. The USSR's weakening in the 1980s, driven by economic and political reforms like glasnost and perestroika, sparked independence movements across its territories. Emergence of Nationalism: Azerbaijani nationalism grew as people sought to preserve their culture, language, and sovereignty. Tensions escalated with the Armenian-Azerbaijani dispute over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Azerbaijan's independence is celebrated on October 18 each year. The country has emerged as a key player in the South Caucasus, balancing relations with neighboring powers and international allies.
About the Instructor I am İrfan Sapmaz, an experienced war correspondent and journalist with over 42 years of international reporting, covering conflicts and wars across Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Israel, Palestine, Azerbaijan, and beyond. Throughout my career, I have faced extreme challenges, including being wounded, imprisoned, and reporting from active war zones. In addition to my journalistic achievements, I am a seasoned educator and researcher, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in U.S. National Security Policy. I hold degrees in political science and law, bringing a unique academic and professional perspective to my work. This course is designed to provide you with an insider's understanding of journalism in conflict zones, equipping you with the tools, strategies, and safety techniques to excel in one of the most challenging professions in the world.
"The Significance of Jerusalem for the Three Major Religions: Muslims, Christians, and Jews" This course delves into the historical, spiritual, and cultural importance of Jerusalem for Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Explore how this sacred city has shaped religious traditions, inspired devotion, and influenced global politics throughout history. Through detailed lectures, visual content, and expert insights, we’ll examine: The Islamic perspective: The role of Jerusalem in Islamic theology, the significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque, and its place in the Prophet Muhammad's Isra and Mi'raj. The Christian perspective: The life of Jesus Christ in Jerusalem, the Crucifixion and Resurrection, and the importance of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The Jewish perspective: The Temple Mount, the Western Wall, and Jerusalem as the eternal capital in Jewish tradition.