Independence Day, time for revolution!

The Cry of Dolores. Mexicans are also a nation opposed to authoritarian rule. On September 16th, 1810, Miguel Hidalgo, a catholic priest, stood up in the town of Dolores, delivering a powerful speech. The Cry of Dolores as it came to be known, motivated Mexicans to stand up against the Spanish regime. This then turned into a violent feud as Hidalgo’s army clashed with the Spanish in the war for independence. The declaration of independence would not pass until September 28th, 1821. The Mexican people today enjoy a public holiday to celebrate the Cry of Dolores. Banks, schools, and public services are closed for the day, along with many other businesses allowing the whole community to feel the high energy. The fiestas take to the streets, covered in red, white, and green decorations, with an abundance of Mexican flags fluttering with a sense of pride as the dancing celebrations go long into the night.

The free spirit of India. India celebrates its independence day on August 15th and has done so since 1947, when British rule came to a relatively peaceful conclusion. The independence movement made progress during the First World War, led by a man named Mahatma K Gandhi, who supported a peaceful transition of power; this man, later referred to as the father of India, is still an inspiration to the world. Today, Indians are fanatical about celebrating their national independence, lifting the Indian flag above the Lahori Gate in Delhi, and coming together in honor of great legends who made it all possible. It’s also a day for family togetherness, perhaps walking in the local park and sitting together for a family feast. Another spectacular tradition is the flying of kites, as this has become an iconic symbol of India’s freedom. Watching them soar through the skies in their beautiful colors reminds us of the free spirit of India itself.

Brazilians take to the streets to party for their independenc. A country that seems to have an excuse to party at every opportunity, however, independence day is extra special. On September 7th, the Brazilian people stop what they are doing and party, just as you might expect, and they have good reason to. Under Portuguese rule from the 1500s, it took a Brazilian-born heir to the throne, Pedro I, to cut its ties with the Kingdom of Portugal in a violent clash with his father, King Dom John VI, proclaiming Brazil as an independent country in 1822. Today Brazilians are rewarded with a public holiday whereby families can enjoy a day together or participate in the huge celebrations populating the cities and towns with events such as the giant military parade in Brasilia, the capital. In addition, there is the civic parade, where children from local schools get together to provide an audience with memorable performances. The whole day is a dazzling display of Brazilian patriotism.

Bastille Day, the French Revolution. Bastille Day is an important day for the French people, who mark July 14th in their calendars to remember that in 1789, the people of France revolted against the former regime and King. It all started with a mob surrounding the Bastille. A medieval fort converted into a prison. The Bastille held political prisoners, some of which were obtained directly from the King’s authority and would have no appeal. The mob overran the prison, releasing the seven prisoners, furthermore, helping themselves to weapons and ammunition. This was then the beginning of the french revolution. The revolution’s success has led to a France we are all familiar with today. A public holiday was announced in 1880, and it has become a yearly celebration with traditions such as military parades, massive gatherings, and firework displays. It is a commemorative sight. It is also a time to be proud of being French, as their culture is amplified in music, dance, and theater. Vive le 14 Juillet!

Celebrating their peaceful independence day. On July 1st, the people of Canada celebrate Canada Day. It is a day remembered for the merging of the three North American British colonies, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Province of Canada. On July 1st, 1867, Britain established the unified and semi-independent dominion of Canada, in other words, a self-governing dominion of Great Britain, and the introduction of Canada’s first Prime Minister, John A MacDonald. Today Canadians celebrate being Canadian, taking advantage of a public holiday, enabling most to engage in family activities. The big day is at the peak of summer, so the celebration is often done outdoors. Taking part in the nearby parade or participating in some all-Canadian sport such as Ice-Hockey or fishing is fun for everyone. As the sun sets over an independent Canada, fireworks are seen exploding long into the night while the nation parties on shouting, ’O Canada!’.

Fiestas Patrias. On July 28th, Peru celebrates the end of Spanish rule that began as far back as the 1500s, which saw the end of the great Inca civilization. To celebrate, Peruvians are given two days of holiday on the 28th, a celebration of independence, and the 29th, a celebration of its military. Coinciding with school winter holidays means the whole family can enjoy celebrating together. Traveling within the country is very popular, perhaps to visit the Capitol Lima, where the big celebrations are happening. On the first day, the celebration of Independence kicks off with a 21 cannon salute. Here on after, the nation embarks on a nationwide celebration, with big parades and dancing. Throughout the whole month of July, homes and official buildings are to bear Peru’s national flag and can even face a fine if not carried out. Celebrations go on long into the night with traditional music or even rock music, making for a kinetic atmosphere. The second day focuses on its military might, with a huge military parade making its way through the capital.

The flowerpot incident. Colombia celebrates its independence day on July 20th to commemorate the birth of the Republic of Colombia. A revolt ensued on July 20th, 1810, involving an incident with a flower pot. A Spanish businessman refused to lend a flowerpot to a group of Colombians, born of Spanish descent, who wanted independence. They proceeded to smash the flowerpot, running into the street shouting in protest, somehow triggering a series of historical events. All this happened after the Spanish authorities increased taxation to fund the Spanish involvement in the American war for independence. Furthermore, Colombia was only allowed to trade with Spain. This movement rippled right the way through Latin America. Today Colombians celebrate national freedom with a national holiday, commemorating the occasion by eating the national dish of Bandera Paisa. Other activities such as playing sport and listening to traditional Colombian music is an important part of the celebrations. Another tradition is a game called Tejo, a game that involves throwing metal disks at explosive targets!