Independence Day Around the World

Anyone who’s taken an American History class knows that the American colonies voted in favor of independence from England on July 2, 1776, and Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence two days later. As a result, we celebrate Independence Day on July 4 every year.

But how about Independence Day in other countries? For example, can you answer these questions?

• Which country also celebrates independence – from the U.S. – on July 4?
• How many countries gained independence from the Soviet Union after the Cold War?
• What did Indonesia used to be called, until its independence? How about Cambodia?

Here are some fun facts to help you celebrate independence and freedom on a global scale:

 

Cambodia — November 9, 1953

Originally a kingdom, Cambodia came under French control in 1863, and officially became a French protectorate within French Indochina in 1867. Japan expanded into Cambodia (also known as Kampuchea) during World War II, but after the war France was determined to reestablish its dominance of the area, particularly in Vietnam. Cambodia wasn’t hot for the idea, and declared its independence in 1953, which France reluctantly accepted.

France – July 14, 1789

Members of the lower classes in France revolted against the monarchy in 1789, due to food shortages and rising taxes. Two days after the revolution started, Parisians stormed the fortress called the Bastille, to free political prisoners and arm themselves against the French military. France now celebrates Bastille Day as a symbol of the people’s independence from an absolutist monarchy.

India — August 15, 1947

India was known as “the Crown Jewel of the British Empire” until after World War ll. Between the two world wars, the independence movement led by Gandhi gained country-wide support, and England finally agreed to grant independence in 1947. Kite flying competitions have become a popular way for Indians to celebrate the occasion.

Pakistan — August 15, 1947

At the time of India’s independence, Pakistan was a part of that country. With the U.K. bowing out, Muslims in the Pakistan region feared they would become subjugated by India. England agreed, and split the country between Hindu-majority India and Muslim-majority Pakistan. Despite everyone’s good intentions, problems ensued and fighting broke out, due to forced migration as the two populations moved across the new borders.

Indonesia — August 17, 1945

Indonesia, then known as the Dutch East Indies, was another country that Japan seized during World War II, wanting the colony’s rich sugar and rubber resources. After Japan was defeated in 1945, the Netherlands planned to get their colony back, but the Indonesians declared independence. After 4 years of fighting, the Netherlands finally recognized Indonesian independence in 1949.

Mexico — September 16, 1810

In the U.S., many of us think of Cinco de Mayo as Mexico’s version of July 4th. Nope. May 5, 1862, was the day of the Mexican’s army unlikely victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla. Mexico actually achieved independence from Spain much earlier, on September 16, 1810. Independence Day celebrations include rodeos, bullfights, parades, and traditional Mexican dances. Meanwhile, Cinco de Mayo in the States is a celebration of Mexican-American culture.

Philippines — June 12, 1898… and July 4, 1946

The Philippines declared their independence from Spain in 1898. At that time, however, Spain was fighting the Spanish-American war with the U.S. When Spain lost that war, it "sold" the Philippines to America for $20 million. The U.S. promptly quelled the independence movement, and declared the country a U.S. territory.

The Filipinos launched numerous uprisings, and finally, in 1935, President Franklin Roosevelt signed a bill that would grant the country independence in 10 years. He picked July 4, so the two countries could celebrate independence together. The Japanese complicated the situation by invading the Philippines in World War ll, so it actually took until 1946 for the Philippines to enjoy their first day of true independence since the early 1500s.

Poland — November 11, 1918

For over 100 years, the country we know as Poland was divided between the Russian Empire, Prussia, and Austria. After World War I, the country was finally reunited. During the period of communist rule, the people could not celebrate independence, but the holiday was reinstated when the country regained its democracy.

Ukraine — August 24, 1991

The end of the Cold War in 1991 prompted significant changes on the world map. The Soviet Union had been an economic and political failure, and quickly dissolved. Thirteen former Soviet states declared independence, including Ukraine, which was a region rich in both farmland and nuclear weapons. The Ukraine gave up the weapons in exchange for a guarantee of independence.

Regardless of our nationalities, humans long to live free. We at Envision wish you a happy, safe 4^th of July, along with true appreciation for the freedom and opportunity we enjoy in America.

For more fun Independence Day facts:

9 Things You May Not Know About the Declaration of Independence, from History.com

More on Independence Day around the world, from ThinkProgress.org and from the BBC.