Georgia Independence Day, which is annually observed on May 26. You should already be aware that we are not referring to the state of Georgia, but rather a country located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. Georgia has spent the majority of its history under Russian and Soviet control. It has gained and regained independence at various periods in its history, but it has been an independent nation for over three decades. The history of Georgia’s independence begins with the ratification of the Act of Independence following the Russian Revolution of 1917.
HISTORY OF GEORGIA INDEPENDENCE DAY
Today is a significant day in history, as it is Georgia’s national day. This nation’s path to independence is lengthy, eventful, and empowering, just as it is for the majority of nations. Permit us to recount the illustrious tale of how Georgia became the sovereign nation it is today.
It all began with Georgia’s incorporation into the Russian Empire in the nineteenth century. Until the Russian Revolution of 1917, the Russian empire ruled Georgia for more than a decade. The revolution began as an effort to overthrow the monarchy and institute a socialist government. It began during World War I and endured for a few years following two revolutions and a bloody civil war.
In 1918, following the revolution, the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic was established in Caucasia. It was a fleeting union comprised of the majority of the territories of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, along with portions of Russia and Turkey. This state endured only one month before Georgia declared independence on May 26, 1861.
This independence, however, was short-lived, as Georgia was again annexed within a few years, this time by the Soviet Union. Georgia regained its independence on April 9, 1991, several decades later. On May 26, that same year, the first presidential election was conducted, and Zviad Gamsakhurdia was declared the winner.
Under the terms of the Act of Independence, May 26 remained Independence Day, while April 9 was designated as the Day of National Unity, Civic Concordance, and Remembrance. Both holidays are public, national observances that are observed annually.
5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT GEORGIA
Its emblem is very significant
The flag of Georgia consists of a white background signifying peace, one large cross representing St. George’s cross, and four smaller crosses representing Christianity and sacrifice.
Locals do not refer to it as Georgia.
Georgians refer to their nation as Saqartvelo.
It is the cradle of viticulture
It is believed that Georgians began producing wine 8,000 years ago.
It contains several UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Three UNESCO world heritage sites are located in Georgia: Gelati Monastery, Mtskheta, and the ancient villages and structures of Svaneti in the Caucasus Mountains.
Unique language and alphabets
The Georgian language is one of four Kartvelian languages and uses the Mkhedruli alphabet.
GEORGIA INDEPENDENCE DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 26 | Friday |
| 2024 | May 26 | Sunday |
| 2025 | May 26 | Monday |
| 2026 | May 26 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | May 26 | Wednesday |
