Independence Day in Liberia
In 1847, Liberia declared its independence from the United States and adopted its own constitution. This event is now celebrated on July 26th each year in Liberia as a national holiday. This day commemorates the date on which the Liberian Constitution was adopted and marks the beginning of the Republic of Liberia as an independent nation.
Liberia (Public holiday)It was the first African republic to proclaim its independence and is one of the oldest modern republics in Africa. Every year, the Liberian President declares this day a holiday, and special events are held across the country.
The History of Liberian Independence Day
During the 19th century, the Republic of Liberia was a settlement created by the American Colonization Society, or ACS, as it was sometimes known. This organization believed that American blacks would have a better chance of freedom in their own country in Africa than if they stayed in the United States.
From 1822 through 1861, thousands of free American blacks were relocated to the Cape Mesurado settlement on the Pepper Coast of West Africa. In 1824, the colony adopted the name Liberia, and the main settlement in this colony was named Monrovia.
Due to conflict with indigenous people and disease, the first few years of this colony had a high mortality rate, but things eventually stabilized, and the colony gained a bit of stability. On July 26, 1847, the people of the colony issued a Declaration of Independence and drew up a constitution. This constitution was based on the U.S. Constitution, and it created the independent Republic of Liberia.
Observing Liberian Independence Day
This holiday is celebrated with parades, festivals, and parties across Liberia. It is also observed with the Liberian president addressing the public. Speaking of the public, this holiday is a day off for the general population, and many non-essential government offices and businesses are closed. It is also a day when people proudly fly the Liberian flag.
Liberia (Public holiday)
