Independence Day in Mali
On the 22nd of September in Mali, Independence Day is celebrated as a public holiday. As the name of this holiday suggests, it commemorates the independence of the country from the Mali Federation on September 22, 1960. This is a day when the Flag of Mali is flown high over the capital of the country, and from many government offices and businesses all across the country.
Mali (Public holiday)The Mali Flag is a vertical tricolor of green, gold, and red, and it was adopted in 1961. Of course, raising the flag above the country isn’t the only celebration held on this day. There are a number of events that people can attend to celebrate their country and their freedom.
The History Of Independence Day In Mali
Mali is a country that’s located in Western Africa and one that has a colorful history. The Malian Empire ruled the area from the 11th century, but around the 17th century, its influence began to wane as European powers began colonizing the area around it.
In the 19th century, Islamic religious wars created a number of theocratic states in the area and France began to take an interest in it as well. At the end of the century, France would end up conquering the area and would incorporate it into French Sudan.
In 1959, French Sudan was merged with Senegal to create the Mali Federation. An agreement was then signed with France that made the federation independent on June 26th, 1960. The federation would only last two months, however, and on August 20th of that year, Senegal proclaimed its independence from the federation. On September 22nd, 1960, French Sudan would also declare its independence from the Mali Federation. This created the Republic of Mali.
Observing Independence Day In Mali
All across this country are parades, marching bands, the raising of the Mali Flag, and other events. It’s a public holiday, so it’s a day off for the general population, which allows citizens to travel to visit friends and family members.
Mali (Public holiday)
