History of Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan, officially the Republic of Azerbaijan, is a transcontinental country located between Western Asia and Eastern Europe in the South Caucasus region.The region once formed part of Caucasian Albania, later ruled by the Persian empires and the Qajar Empire. During the Russo-Persian wars of 1804–1813 and 1826–1828, the treaties of Gulistan and Turkmenchay forced Persia to cede Azerbaijani lands to the Russian Empire, setting the Aras River as a border.By the 19th century, Azerbaijani national identity grew, and in 1918 the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic emerged after the collapse of the Russian Empire. Although it became the first secular and democratic Muslim-majority republic, the country was incorporated into the Soviet Union in 1920 as the Azerbaijan SSR.With the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the modern Republic of Azerbaijan declared independence on 30 August 1991. The following month, September 1991, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict with Armenia began, leading to the First Nagorno-Karabakh War and later clashes in 2020 and 2023.
Independence Day in Azerbaijan has two important milestones. The first is Republic Day, celebrated on May 28, 1918, when the Democratic Republic of Azerbaijan was founded after the fall of the Russian Empire. The second, modern Independence Day, came after decades under Soviet rule, when Azerbaijan declared sovereignty on August 30, 1991. The Parliament adopted the Declaration on State Independence, and on October 18, 1991, the Supreme Council passed the Constitutional Act on State Independence.
A referendum on December 29, 1991 confirmed independence, and soon after, the Soviet Union ceased to exist. In 1992, Independence Day was officially recognized as a national holiday. Later, in 2006, it was no longer a non-working day, though it remains widely observed with ceremonies and reflection.
Borders of the Country
Azerbaijan is a landlocked nation bordered by the Caspian Sea, Russia’s Dagestan, Georgia, Armenia, Turkey, and Iran.The capital and largest city is Baku, a historic hub of trade and culture.The Aras River serves as part of the border, established through historical treaties after the Russo-Persian wars.
Symbols of Independence of Azerbaijan
National Flag of Azerbaijan
The National Flag of Azerbaijan, first raised in 1918 and restored in 1991, has blue, red, and green horizontal stripes with a white crescent and eight-pointed star. It represents Turkic heritage, progress, and Islamic culture.
National Emblem of Azerbaijan
The National Emblem displays a flame symbolizing the “Land of Fire,” an eight-pointed star, and wheat ears representing independence, unity, and prosperity.
National Anthem of Azerbaijan
The National Anthem, adopted in 1992, praises freedom and independence. It is sung at official ceremonies, independence events, and national celebrations.
Martyrs’ Lane (Şəhidlər Xiyabanı)
Located in Baku, Martyrs’ Lane is a memorial honoring those who gave their lives for independence. It stands as a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and national pride.
Independence Day (October 18, 1991)
The date itself, October 18, 1991, serves as a powerful symbol of sovereignty and a reminder of the nation’s proud declaration of freedom from the Soviet Union.
Famous Leaders
Heydar Aliyev
Known as the founding father of modern Azerbaijan, Heydar Aliyev served as president from 1993 to 2003. He stabilized independence, strengthened political institutions, and guided economic development.
Abulfaz Elchibey
Abulfaz Elchibey, leader of the Popular Front of Azerbaijan, became president in 1992. He guided the nation during its early years of independence, promoting democratic values.
Mammad Amin Rasulzadeh
The visionary Mammad Amin Rasulzadeh founded the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic in 1918. His famous words, “Once raised, the flag will never fall,” remain a timeless symbol of national pride.
Ilham Aliyev
Since 2003, Ilham Aliyev has continued the policies of Heydar Aliyev, focusing on modernization, international relations, and strengthening Azerbaijan’s independence on the global stage.
Isa Gambar
As an opposition leader and Speaker of Parliament, Isa Gambar also played a significant role in shaping Azerbaijan’s political landscape and independence.
Currency
The official currency of Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN), which is divided into 100 qapik.
Population
Azerbaijan is a unitary semi-presidential republic and one of six independent Turkic states. It has diplomatic relations with 182 countries and follows a secular Constitution.The country has a developing economy and ranks 89th on the Human Development Index. Since 1993, the New Azerbaijan Party and the Aliyev family—first Heydar Aliyev and now Ilham Aliyev—have dominated politics.With a majority Shia Muslim population, Azerbaijan continues to balance its past struggles with its modern ambitions.
Tourist Places
National Independence Day is marked with celebratory events across Azerbaijan. Official ceremonies include government officials laying flowers at monuments and memorials to honor national heroes.Cultural activities play a major role, with concerts, public performances, traditional music, and dances bringing communities together.In Baku, spectacular fireworks light up the night sky, symbolizing joy and unity. Citizens take part by attending events, joining public celebrations, and reflecting on history.
Families gather for meals and outings, strengthening bonds while remembering the nation’s independence. The day is a source of pride for all Azerbaijanis, as it not only commemorates sovereignty but also highlights their cultural identity and national spirit.
Conclusion
Azerbaijan Independence Day is more than a date on the calendar; it is a powerful reminder of resilience, freedom, and national pride. Celebrated every year on October 18, it highlights the country’s journey from the early struggles of the 20th century to becoming a modern, independent republic. Through its national symbols, cultural traditions, and the legacy of great leaders, Azerbaijan honors its past while looking forward to a brighter future.
The day unites citizens in reflection and celebration, whether through official ceremonies, family gatherings, or festive activities that showcase the nation’s rich heritage. It also serves as a countdown to new milestones in Azerbaijan’s growth and development. With the festive counter of history and modern achievements, Independence Day continues to inspire Azerbaijanis to value sovereignty and strengthen their place in the world.