Macedonia

In 1946 macedonia became an autonomous republic within the Federation of Yugoslavia. Forty-five years later, independence was peacefully obtained, but problems with neighboring Greece followed when the Greek government insisted that the name Macedonia was Hellenic in nature. Briefly known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, the country's name was shortened over Greek objections. Economic relations between the two countries have resumed, but the relationship remains tenuous. Although Macedonia is landlocked, it shares Lake Ohrid with Albania and Lakes Prespa and Dyran with Greece. The Vardar River runs through much of Macedonia. Summers and autumns are warm and dry in Macedonia, followed by cold winters and heavy snow. The land is generally mountainous with deep basins and valleys, and the country is vulnerable to ...