5 Countries Celebrating Independence Day on August 15 Alongside India
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/16th August 2024
On August 15, India celebrates a monumental milestone, marking its independence from nearly two centuries of British colonial rule. This day, which India has celebrated since 1947, signifies not only the end of foreign domination but also the birth of a sovereign nation. As India commemorates this historic occasion each year, it is joined by five other countries that also celebrate their own hard-earned independence on August 15: South Korea, North Korea, Bahrain, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Liechtenstein.
Liechtenstein: A Nation’s Pride
Liechtenstein, one of the world’s smallest yet wealthiest nations, observes its National Day on August 15. Though Liechtenstein’s history of independence dates back to 1866 when it gained freedom from German rule, it wasn’t until 1940 that August 15 was officially declared as National Day. Despite its size, Liechtenstein’s prosperity and stability have made this day one of great national pride, symbolizing the enduring spirit of a small but resilient country.
South Korea and North Korea: A Shared Legacy of Liberation
On August 15, both South Korea and North Korea celebrate their independence from Japanese colonial rule, which lasted for 35 years. For South Korea, this day is known as ‘Gwangbokjeol,’ meaning ‘the day the light returned,’ while North Korea commemorates it as ‘Chogukhaebangui nal,’ or ‘liberation of the fatherland day.’ In 1945, the liberation of the Korean Peninsula marked the end of Japanese domination, a significant turning point that eventually led to the establishment of two separate nations. This shared date of independence remains a powerful reminder of their common history and struggle, even as the two countries have since taken divergent paths.
Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Day of Freedom
The Democratic Republic of the Congo celebrates its independence from French colonial rule on August 15, 1960. This day is recognized as Congolese National Day, marking the end of 80 years of foreign control. The journey to independence was a critical moment in the nation’s history, paving the way for the Democratic Republic of the Congo to assert its sovereignty and take its place on the global stage. August 15 serves as a day of reflection and celebration of the nation’s resilience and determination to overcome colonial rule.
Bahrain: A Nation’s Journey
Bahrain, an island nation in the Persian Gulf, declared its independence from British control on August 15, 1971. However, Bahrain observes December 16 as its official National Day, celebrating the country’s overall national achievements. Despite the different official celebration date, August 15 remains a significant marker of Bahrain’s emergence as a sovereign state, free from colonial influence.
India: A Legacy of Freedom
India’s independence on August 15, 1947, was a defining moment in world history. The Indian Independence Act, enacted by Lord Mountbatten, the last British Governor-General of India, brought an end to British rule and led to the partition of India into two nations—India and Pakistan. Every year, this day is commemorated with great fervor as the Prime Minister of India unfurls the national flag at the Red Fort in New Delhi, symbolizing the nation’s unity, resilience, and commitment to the values of freedom and democracy.
As these six countries—India, South Korea, North Korea, Bahrain, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Liechtenstein—celebrate their independence on August 15, they share a common bond: the triumph over colonialism and the enduring spirit of sovereignty. Each nation’s unique history adds to the rich tapestry of global freedom, reminding us that the quest for independence is universal and timeless.
