1848 Revolution Memorial Day
1848 Revolution Memorial Day is a holiday in Hungary that is celebrated annually on March 15th. This holiday commemorates the anniversary of the start of Hungary’s 1848 Revolution against the Austrian Empire. It is a national holiday and one of three national holidays in Hungary.
Hungary (National holiday)The other two are 1956 Revolution Memorial Day on October 23rd and Hungary National Day on August 20th. Because this day is a national holiday, it is a day off for the general population, and government offices, schools, and many businesses are closed on this day. On this day, the flag of Hungary is hoisted on every government building and on many businesses throughout the country.
The History of 1848 Revolution Memorial Day
Since the 19th century, Hungary had been part of the Austrian Empire. It may have acted as if it were an independent country, but it had strong ties to the empire. This would change nearing the mid-19th century as discontent over taxation and a desire for free speech began to sweep across the country.
This was compounded by the fact that many Hungarians didn’t feel like they had freedom of religion or could manage their own affairs. All of this would come together to ignite the 1848 Revolution.
Only a year later, Hungarian revolutionaries would be defeated. Although they were defeated, or perhaps because of it, the desire for independence only grew in the country. This is widely considered to be the time when the Hungarian national identity was formed. And that’s why the 1848 Revolution is now celebrated as one of the three national holidays of Hungary.
Observing 1848 Revolution Memorial Day
All across Hungary, this holiday is celebrated with political speeches and concerts. It is also a day on which people wear red, white, and green cockades or ribbons to show their national pride.
Because this is a national holiday, government offices are closed on this day. Although some businesses such as restaurants or bars may remain open, other businesses will close for the day.
Hungary (National holiday)
