Republic Day in Slovakia
Republic Day is a holiday that’s observed on January 1st annually in the Slovak Republic. It commemorates the day when Czechoslovakia split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993. Although the Slovak Republic became its own country on January 1, 1993, Slovakia had declared itself a sovereign state in July of 1992—essentially asserting that its national laws took precedence over those of the federal government.
Slovakia (National holiday)On this day, the flag of the Slovak Republic is flown on all government buildings, and many people celebrate the traditions associated with the New Year. Some people will be recovering from the New Year’s Eve celebrations, while others will make a toast to the New Year at their city or town square.
The History of Republic Day in Slovakia
After the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918, Czechoslovakia was formed from several of the empire’s provinces. Between WWI and WWII, it went on to become one of the most politically stable and prosperous states in Eastern Europe.
Between 1938 and 1945, it was occupied by Nazi Germany, but it came under the control of the Soviets from 1948 through 1989. The end of Communist rule in Czechoslovakia came as a result of the Velvet Revolution.
In July of 1992, Slovakia declared that it was a sovereign state and didn’t have to take authority from the federal government of Czechoslovakia. This was followed by negotiations between Czech and Slovak leaders, and the path towards ending the federation came to light.
In November of that year, Czechoslovakia’s Federal Parliament voted to dissolve the federation on December 31, 1992. On January 1, 1993, the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic became two separate countries.
Observing the History of Republic Day in Slovakia
On this holiday, the flag of the Slovak Republic is flown, and many people will be observing their normal New Year’s Day traditions. Of course, this means different things to different people. Some will spend the day recovering from the previous day’s festivities, and for others, it will be about enjoying a meal with friends and family members.
Slovakia (National holiday)
