Dominican Republic Independence Day 2023: Date, History, Facts

Independence Day of the Dominican Republic is annually commemorated on February 27. Since the first commemoration was held in 1844, nearly two centuries have passed. The Dominican Republic was subject to Haitian rule for 22 years prior to the independence conflict. After attaining independence, Hispaniola was divided between Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Presently, the Dominican Republic is the Caribbean’s most popular tourist destination and has the largest economy in the region. The majority of the population is of blended African and European descent.

HISTORY OF DOMINICAN REPUBLIC INDEPENDENCE DAY

Early in the nineteenth century, the colony of Santo Domingo, which is now the capital of the Dominican Republic, was the seat of Spanish authority, albeit at its lowest point. Due to Spain’s involvement in the Peninsular War and other conflicts, the country’s resources were dispersed across the globe, and Santo Domingo was neglected. During this time, the Espaa Boba era, the Spanish colony had a population of approximately 80,000 people. However, the Spanish crown’s influence in the colony was minimal to nonexistent.

Rich cattle ranchers assumed leadership roles in order to restore order to the colony, where the “law of the machete” reigned supreme. On November 9, 1821, after being influenced by the revolutions occurring around him, José Nez de Cáceres, the captain of the colony and the criollo class of the nation, chose to overthrow the Spanish government and declare independence. However, they did not achieve independence until the following year, when they were united with Haiti.

For 22 years, the entire island of Hispaniola, including both Haiti and Santo Domingo, was governed by Haiti. In every respect, Haiti was more potent than the former Spanish colony of Santo Domingo, whose population was nearly ten times smaller. Before the Haitian Revolution, Haiti was the most affluent colony in the western hemisphere. This is the reason why Dominican military officers consented to the merger with Haiti. It would provide political stability and security for Haiti’s wealth and authority. After 22 years of disputes and crises, the Dominican people eventually achieved independence in 1844 by overthrowing the Haitian government.

5 FACTS ABOUT THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

• Baseball is a prominent sport in the Dominican Republic, with over 100 Dominicans playing in U.S. leagues.
• National parks, reserves, and sanctuaries protect approximately 25 percent of the nation’s land.
• It is the world’s earliest colonial settlement.
• At the Presidential Mansion in Santo Domingo, scenes for “The Godfather II” were shot.
• It is the only nation in the world whose flag features the Bible.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC INDEPENDENCE DAY DATES