Constitution Day in Uruguay
In Uruguay, Constitution Day is a national holiday that’s observed annually on the 18th of July. This holiday is known officially in the country as “La Jura de la Constitución es el principal día festivo de Uruguay” and it commemorates the adoption of the countries first constitution on this day in 1830.
Uruguay (National holiday)Over the years, this constitution has been reformed and amended. It’s been reformed in 1918, 1934, 1942, 1952, and finally, in 1967. The last amendment added to it was in 2004. This holiday is attended by not only members of the government, but also by citizens. It’s a festive occasion that’s celebrated with great national pride.
The History Of Uruguay Constitution Day
During the 19th century, Brazil had gained its independence from Portugal. The region that’s now known as Uruguay was located in the eastern portion of Brazil. This area has passed through a variety of hands over the years. It was not ruled by Brazil, but it had also been ruled by the British, the Spanish, and the Portuguese.
In 1825, Uruguay declared its independence from Brazil and this started the Argentina-Brazil War. This conflict would last three years until Britain negotiated an end to the war. This would lead to Brazil recognizing the independence of Uruguay.
Uruguay’s Legislative Assembly drew up the constitution and it was modeled off of the constitutions of the U.S and France. It created a government that had executive, legislative and judicial branches. This created a unitary parliamentary republic and establish Roman Catholicism as the national official religion. On July 18th, 1830, this constitution was put into effect.
Observing Uruguay Constitution Day
This holiday is observed with a variety of different events, most of which occur in Montevideo, the capital city of Uruguay. The President of Uruguay not only gives speeches on this day, but he also attends many of this day’s events, as does the vice president and members of the Uruguay Parliament. Some of the events enjoyed on this day include marches, parades, concerts, and festivals.
Uruguay (National holiday)
