Hyojong of Joseon vs King Ghazi of Iraq

King Hyojong initiated a plan to invade Qing China to avenge the humiliation of the 1636 surrender. He expanded the army, built fortifications, and stockpiled weapons. The plan was never executed due to Qing power and lack of allies.

Hyojong strengthened the Joseon military by reorganizing the army, improving artillery, and fortifying northern borders. He also promoted the use of matchlock muskets and trained a standing army, preparing for a potential war with Qing.

King Hyojong died suddenly at age 40, possibly from illness or poisoning. His death ended the Northern Expedition plan. His successor Hyeonjong was young, leading to a power vacuum and intensified factional strife.

King Ghazi ascended to the throne of Iraq following the death of his father, King Faisal I. At age 21, he inherited a newly independent but fragile kingdom. His reign was marked by growing nationalism, anti-British sentiment, and tensions between the monarchy and the military.

King Ghazi tacitly supported the military coup led by General Bakr Sidqi, which overthrew the civilian government of Yasin al-Hashimi. This was the first military coup in the Arab world. Ghazi's sympathy with the military reflected his nationalist and anti-British views, but it destabilized Iraqi politics.

King Ghazi died in a car accident in Baghdad, crashing his sports car into a utility pole. His death was sudden and unexpected, leading to widespread rumors of assassination by British agents. He was succeeded by his young son, Faisal II, under a regency, which further weakened the monarchy.