Independence Day in Palau
The Republic of Palau is an island country located in the Western Pacific and is home to over 18,000 people. It is a country that gained its independence after over a hundred years of colonial rule and is a United Nations Trust Territory. This event occurred on October 1st, 1994, and that date is now celebrated as Independence Day in the country.
Palau (Public holiday)This public holiday is a day off for the general public and a day on which people enjoy a number of festive events. These include communal meals, dances, festivals, and other activities. It is a day for all islanders to reflect on their freedom and celebrate it.
The History of Independence Day in Palau
During the 3rd and 2nd millennia BCE, Palau was settled by peoples from Indonesia or perhaps the Philippines. During the 16th century, the Spanish colonized the islands, and Spain administered Palau with the approval of the Catholic Church and Pope Leo XIII. After Spain’s defeat during the Spanish-American War, the archipelago was sold to Imperial Germany.
During WWI, Palau was seized by Japan and remained under Japanese control until 1944. After the Battle of Peleliu, the islands would then be administered by the U.S. under the authority of the United Nations as a Trust Territory.
During the 1970s, Palau began a movement towards independence. This lasted until the Compact of Free Association was ratified in 1993 and would officially take effect on the 1st of October, 1994. Independence Day would then be established as a holiday to celebrate this momentous event.
Observing Independence Day in Palau
This holiday is observed with a variety of different events that include music, parades, and dances. There are also communal meals and special sporting events held on this day. Most of the general public has the day off so they can attend these events.
Palau (Public holiday)
