Independence Day in Afghanistan is on August 19. Did you know that the holiday does not commemorate Afghanistan’s independence from Britain because Afghanistan has never been a part of the British Empire? It is observed to commemorate Afghanistan’s independence from British influence and the Rawalpindi Treaty (or Anglo-Afghan Treaty), which recognised Afghanistan’s independence and sovereignty. It is commemorated with official speeches and military displays, and Afghans celebrate by performing their national dance, attana, and decorating their residences with the national flag.
The background of Afghanistan Independence Day
Afghanistan was officially recognised as the Empire of Afghanistan in 1823, following the collapse of the Afghan Durrani Empire. Afghanistan has been a site of geographic significance throughout history. It is the gateway to the Indian subcontinent, which connects China with western Asia and Europe. This route also transported Mediterranean trade to China. Afghanistan is known as the “Central Asian roundabout” due to its location on numerous trade and migration routes. Kabul, a tranquil garden and mosque-filled metropolis, is the capital of Afghanistan.
Afghanistan has, unfortunately, also been a site of political turmoil. Afghanistan’s borders were established in the late 19th century as a result of competition between imperial Britain and tsarist Russia. In the 20th century, from 1979 to 1989, Afghanistan was devastated by civil conflict, military invasion, and Soviet Union occupation.
From 1996 to 2001, a U.S.-led military campaign toppled the Taliban, a religious student movement that rose to power and established a theocratic government. The anti-Taliban forces agreed to a period of transitional leadership, a new constitution, and a democratically elected government after the collapse of the Taliban.
Afghanistan Independence Day Wishes, Quotes and Messages
5 Interesting Afghanistan Facts
Afghanistan celebrates the new year on March 21, the first day of spring.
Since more than a thousand years ago, Afghans have been recounting stories in verse.
Afghans want ‘Buzkashi’ to be an Olympic sport because they adore it so much.
Alexander the Great conquered the city in 330 B.C. and constructed the Herat citadel.
Around 650 B.C., the earliest oil paintings were created in the caverns of Bamiyan.
AFGHANISTAN INDEPENDENCE DAY DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | August 19 | Saturday |
2024 | August 19 | Monday |
2025 | August 19 | Tuesday |
2026 | August 19 | Wednesday |
2027 | August 19 | Thursday |