Iraqi Independence Day
Iraqi Independence Day, also known as National Iraqi Day, is a holiday observed in Iraq on the 3rd of October each year. This holiday commemorates Iraq’s independence from Great Britain in 1932. Although it has been observed in one way or another since the 1930s, it did not become an official holiday until 2022.
Iraq (National holiday)Iraqi Independence Day was originally observed on July 17th to mark the ascension of the Ba’ath Party in 1968. Nowadays, this holiday is designed to recognize the establishment of the Iraqi state—one of the first Arab countries to gain independence from European colonial powers.
The History of Iraqi Independence Day
Independence Day in Iraq was originally created in 1968 to observe the Ba’ath Party’s ascension to power. This was an official holiday until 2006. However, in 2020, the date was changed to October 3rd to commemorate when Iraq gained independence from Great Britain in 1932. It has been a holiday ever since.
Facts About Iraq
Below are just some of the facts that we’ve learned about Iraq while researching this holiday.
- Iraq means “deeply rooted and fertile” in Arabic.
- The name Iraq has been used since the 5th century.
- According to Islamic tradition, Noah’s Ark was built in the city of Kufa.
- During the Middle Ages, Baghdad was the largest multicultural city in the world.
- It is offensive to eat with the left hand in Iraq.
- One of the world’s earliest forms of writing, cuneiform script, began in Iraq. The Sumerians invented it around 3100 BC.
Observing Iraqi Independence Day
On this day, the Iraqi national flag is flown at government buildings and on homes across the country. This day is often also celebrated with political speeches, parades, and other events. People also use the hashtag #IraqiIndependenceDay to spread the word about this holiday.
Iraq (National holiday)
