Spanish
Santo Domingo.-The National Independence Day of the Dominican Republic is celebrated every February 27, one of the most transcendental dates in the country's history, as it commemorates the proclamation of independence in the year 1844, when the nation was freed from Haitian rule and constituted itself as a sovereign state.
The independence was the result of a patriotic movement led by Juan Pablo Duarte, considered the father of the country and the main ideologue of the separation. Duarte founded the secret society La Trinitaria, along with young people committed to the independence cause such as Francisco del Rosario Sánchez and Ramón Matías Mella. These three men are recognized as the Fathers of the Dominican Republic. For 22 years (1822-1844), the eastern part of the island was under Haitian administration. Although that period had important aspects in terms of the abolition of slavery and social reforms, it also generated cultural, political, and economic tensions that fueled the independence sentiment in the Dominican population. On the night of February 27, 1844, at the historic Puerta del Conde, Ramón Matías Mella fired the famous "trabucazo", a signal that marked the formal beginning of independence. There, the Dominican flag was raised for the first time and the separation from Haiti was proclaimed, giving birth to the Dominican Republic.We recommend reading:Abinader leads solemn act on the occasion of National Flag Day
Since then, every year the country celebrates this date with solemn acts, military parades, floral offerings, and cultural activities throughout the national territory, especially in the city of Santo Domingo, where the main official events are held, headed by the President of the Republic. Schools organize patriotic acts, the National Anthem is sung, and the values of freedom, sovereignty, and patriotism are exalted. The Homeland Month, which runs from January 26 (Juan Pablo Duarte's birthday) to February 27, is a period of historical reflection and reaffirmation of national identity. During this time, the tricolor flag flies in homes, public and private institutions as a symbol of national pride.Independence Day not only commemorates a historical event, but also represents the spirit of struggle, sacrifice, and determination of a people who decided to forge their own destiny. It is a date that reaffirms the commitment of Dominicans to democracy, freedom, and the development of the Dominican nation.
