1848 Revolution Day / Independence Day (Hungary)

1848 Revolution Day, also known as Independence Day, is the National Day of Hungary, commemorating the start of the 1848 Revolution against the Austrian Empire. It stands as one of the three national public holidays in Hungary, alongside celebrations on 23 October and 20 August. On this pivotal day in 1848, Sandor Petőfi, the poet of the revolution, along with his compatriots, publicly recited the Nemzeti dal (National Song) and proclaimed a set of demands for democratic rights, famously known as the ‘12 Points of the Pest Revolution’. These demands, now regarded as among the nation’s most important texts, laid the foundation for Hungary’s struggle for independence and democratic governance. The 1848 Revolution symbolizes the spirit of national unity, resilience, and aspirations for freedom among the Hungarian people. To commemorate this historic event, Hungarians partake in various activities, including patriotic ceremonies, cultural performances, and educational programs, reflecting on the significance of their nation’s journey towards sovereignty and self-determination.