Georgia Independence Day
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
In 1918, First. Declaration of Independence. Georgia declares independence from Russia and establishes the Democratic Republic of Georgia
History
Georgia declared independence from the Soviet Union on April 9, 1991, following the dissolution of the USSR. Georgia had previously declared independence in 1918 when the Russian Empire collapsed, establishing the Democratic Republic of Georgia that lasted until the Soviet Red Army invaded in 1921 and incorporated Georgia into the USSR. Soviet rule brought industrialization but also political repression and attempts to suppress Georgian national identity. The late 1980s saw the rise of the National Movement, led by Zviad Gamsakhurdia, which organized protests against Soviet rule. On April 9, 1991, Georgia formally declared restoration of independence. The post-Soviet period has been marked by conflicts in Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and Russia maintained military bases in the country. May 26, the day the first Georgian republic was declared in 1918, is celebrated as Independence Day, commemorating Georgia's long struggle for national sovereignty and identity.
How It's Celebrated
Celebrate by learning more about the occasion, sharing on social media with relevant hashtags, participating in community events, or taking small personal actions that align with the day's theme.