Iraq Independence Day is a national holiday celebrated annually on October 3 to commemorate Iraq’s independence from the United Kingdom in 1932. This day marks a significant milestone in the country’s history and is a time for Iraqis to reflect on their journey toward freedom and sovereignty.
On Iraq Independence Day, people come together to celebrate their shared heritage and honor the resilience and determination of the Iraqi people. Festivities may include parades, flag-raising ceremonies, cultural events, and special performances. The day provides an opportunity to celebrate the country’s independence and to recognize the sacrifices made by those who fought for Iraq’s freedom.
Iraq Independence Day is an important occasion for Iraqis around the world to come together and show their national pride. It is a time to celebrate the progress that has been made and to look toward the future with hope and optimism.
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Iraq Independence History: How Iraq Gained its Independence?
When and how did Iraq become a country? How did the Republic of Iraq win freedom from British rule? Iraq was once an important outpost of the Ottoman Empire. The country was not known as Iraq at this time, it was the collection of three provinces of the empire: Basra, Baghdad, and Mosul, collectively referred to by the British as Mesopotamia.
Although Iraq, then known as Mesopotamia, was physically close to the center of the Ottoman empire poor communication and infrastructure meant that at other times its policies could be quite remote and hidden from that of its overlords.
Iraq’s first contact with the British was through the East India Company. Iraq lay on one of the interchange routes between India and Britain thus naturally acquiring interest for the company.
With each passing year, the Mamluk rulers of Iraq started showing hatred for their Ottoman overlords and tried to cultivate increased political and economic links with the British. For most of the 19th century, the British and European powers became so well established that they freely took full commercial advantage of this part of the Ottoman Empire with no administrative costs or worries.
Until, the end of World War 1, the Ottoman Empire collapsed and Iraq became the League of Nations mandate administered by Great Britain.
In the mid-1920s, demonstrations broke out in Baghdad with large gatherings at Sunni and Shia mosques. An armed revolt broke out. British sent aircraft, ending the revolt. Winston Churchill, who was Prime Minister at the time, alongside British Parliament, introduced Faysal ibn Husayn as King. In 1932, Iraq was allowed freedom from Britain. The Kingdom of Iraq gained independence from Britain under King Faisal ibn Husayn on October 3, 1932. Many trusts the 1920 revolt prompted the nation’s autonomy in 1932.
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Iraq Independence Day Celebrations: How Iraqis Celebrate Iraq National Day?
The Kingdom of Iraq gained independence from the United Kingdom under King Faisal I bin Hussein on October 3, 1932. Iraq became a member of the League of Nations on the same day. This special day holds great importance for Iraqis, and celebrate it as National Day (that is also referred to as Independence Day).
Iraq Independence or National Day celebrations start with a flag-raising ceremony at the Presidential and Parliamentary buildings. It is trailed by Mawtini – the national anthem of Iraq, and live broadcast talks by national leaders.
Iraqis celebrate this special event to rejoice and celebrate the fruits of freedom and progress. Many people attend the Independence Day military parades holding Iraq’s national flags and wearing caps having Iraq’s national flag prints. Many people along with their families, visit national monuments, while some enjoy the public holiday meeting relatives and visiting recreational spots.
Iraq’s national flag is hoisted on public, and private buildings, and residences at dawn. Some residents decorate their houses and streets with pennants and lights. Firework shows are also put together on the eve of Iraq National Day.
National Day of Iraq: Public Life & Holiday Details
Independence Day is an official holiday in Iraq on October 3. All governmental, and non-governmental offices, organizations, post offices, educational institutions, and major markets are closed.
Many Iraqis celebrate this day to the fullest, by participating in military parades, independence day event shows, and visiting recreation spots with their families.