Independence Day in Mali
On September 22nd in Mali, Independence Day is celebrated as a public holiday. As the name of this holiday suggests, it commemorates the country’s independence from the Mali Federation on September 22, 1960. This is a day when the Flag of Mali is flown high over the capital of the country and from many government offices and businesses across the country.
Mali (Public holiday)The Mali Flag is a vertical tricolor of green, gold, and red, and it was adopted in 1961. Of course, raising the flag above the country isn’t the only celebration held on this day. There are a number of events that people can attend to celebrate their country and their freedom.
The History of Independence Day in Mali
Mali is a country located in Western Africa and one that has a colorful history. The Malian Empire ruled the area from the 11th century, but around the 17th century, its influence began to wane as European powers started colonizing the area around it.
In the 19th century, Islamic religious wars created several theocratic states in the area, and France began to take an interest in it as well. At the end of the century, France ended up conquering the area and incorporated it into French Sudan.
In 1959, French Sudan merged with Senegal to create the Mali Federation. An agreement was then signed with France that made the federation independent on June 26, 1960. The federation would only last two months, however, and on August 20th of that year, Senegal proclaimed its independence from the federation. On September 22nd, 1960, French Sudan also declared its independence from the Mali Federation. This created the Republic of Mali.
Observing Independence Day in Mali
All across the country, there are parades, marching bands, the raising of the Mali Flag, and other events. It’s a public holiday, so it’s a day off for the general population, which allows citizens to travel to visit friends and family members.
Mali (Public holiday)
