Holidays Around The World � Congo Holidays

Republic Day Commemorated in the Republic of the Congo

Noel — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 11:00:59 +0000

Republic Day: December 31

Republic Day is a public holiday in the Congo.

Republic Day is a holiday that is celebrated in Congo to reflect on the country’s history with pride.

History of Republic Day

The Republic of the Congo (simply known as the Congo) is a country in Central Africa that is bordered by Gabon, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and Zaire. The country celebrates Republic Day on December 31 of each year to remember when it was officially named as the first “people’s republic” of Africa.

Congo did not become a republic until 1968, even though it gained independence in 1960. Prior to these times, Congo was a large commercial hub for trade between the Bantu kingdom and European merchants along the Congo River. These two groups traded various commodities, manufactured goods, and slaves captured from the hinterlands. But, when the Europeans began to completely settle within the country, the Bantu groups and other kingdoms slowly phased out of Congo, and the French had ultimate control.

Once France gained control, it created French Equatorial Africa (a group of countries from Central Africa), chose the federal capital of the region (Brazzaville), and created an economic development strategy to expand the Congo’s infrastructure. The French administration benefited from these implementations.

It was after these changes were implemented that Congo gained its independence as the Congo Republic in 1960. Nine years afterwards, President Ngouabi proclaimed Congo to be Africa’s first “people’s republic”. This proclamation gave the country a source of pride, and to this day this pride has been celebrated.

Congo Republic Day Public Traditions, Customs, and Activities

Republic Day continues to be a source of pride for the country. The day brings people of all backgrounds together as proud citizenship of the country. The day usually starts out with memorial marches to remember this day in history, but ends with local celebrations.

Other interesting posts:

Congo Republic Independence Day

Noel — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 19:44:01 +0000

Independence Day Date: August 15

Independence Day is a public holiday in the Republic of the Congo.

Over the years, many nations have been invaded and governed by foreign administration. Under the rule of foreign government, the natives were barred from exercising freedom in any form. Independence Day for a nation signifies a day when the nation retrieved their rights from the foreign rulers and gained back their esteem of statehood. Similarly, the Republic of the Congo gained back its independence on the August 15, 1960 from France.

History of Independence Day in the Republic of the Congo

The Republic of the Congo is located in the central part of Africa. The Pygmy people were the ancient inhabitants, followed by the Bantu Tribes, who tamed the Pygmy people to establish their rule. During the Bantu expansions, they used the Congo River for their trade. It was in the 15th Century that the European traders started using the Congo River which ignited a relationship between the Bantu Tribes and the Portuguese traders. Earlier relationships between the Congo king and the king of Portugal were healthy. But with the discovery of Brazil, the Portuguese started appointing black slaves from Congo to work in the Portuguese plantations in Brazil. This huge need of black slaves by the Portuguese king started depopulating Congo leading to riots and constant attacks by the neighboring states. Finally a series of revolts started against the Portuguese because of this slave trade.

These revolts led to several wars of the different regions of Congo against Portuguese invaders. These wars somehow led to disintegration of Congo and many new states thereby came into existence, gradually, Congo shirked into a small nation, which submitted them to be the Portuguese, who destroyed the place. Later, due to over industrialization in Europe, there suddenly grew a demand for African Rubber, Oil and Cotton.

The French, Portuguese and British joined hands to conquer territories in Africa and set their rule over the Congo River Basin. The French conquered a major area to the north of the Congo River and gradually brought middle Congo, Chad, Gabun, Obangui-Chari under their jurisdiction with Brazzaville as the capital. Since then Congo’s economic advancement have been restricted to natural resources of rubber, cotton and the newly discovered oil reserves. Due to ill treatment and tortured labor system, rebellions started against the French invaders and the difference in ethnicity laid siege to several riots in Brazzaville in 1959.

After September 1958 AEF was dissolved and the four union territories became a part of the French community, leaving the central part which was then named as Congo Republic, which gained formal independence on August 15, 1960. Fulbert Youlou was appointed the first president of the Republic of the Congo.

The Republic of the Congo’s Independence Day Traditions and Activities

Since then, this day is celebrated every year by the Congolese as their Independence day, the day when they gained back their rights to their motherland. This day is declared as the National Holiday and celebrated by a host of events within The Republic of the Congo. As the Republic of Congo is on the verge of completing their 49th independence anniversary, the celebrations are surely going to be big this year, and even bigger the next time. With every “Fête Nationale” (Local name for Independence Day) the Congolese realize their needs to develop their country in every possible way which can pave the way for a strong nation.

Other interesting posts:

Upswing of the Revolution

Noel — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 05:29:59 +0000

Upswing of the Revolution Date: July 31

Upswing of the Revolution is a public holiday in the Congo.

Republic of Congo is a central African country also known as Congo-Brazzaville. The land of Congo is former French colony, which became the republic upon independence in 1960. It became a multi-party democracy in 1992. The Upswing of Revolution took place in the Congo Republic against the foreign rule, which brought independence in 1960. July 31st is celebrated as the Upswing of the Republic.

Upswing of the Revolution History

The territory was originally inhabited by the Nigrito Tribals, before the Belgians invaded it. It was a land of grace and prosperity under the Pygemis, who were local people. In 1887, an American correspondent navigated through the Congo River and set the way for invaders. With the age, the Republic of Congo had been conquered by other states like the English, Portuguese and French. They have exploited the natural resources and the people for their selfish needs and aristocracy. At first, relationships were beneficial with the foreigners, but with time, they dominated the kingdom and looted away all resources.

Relations with the invaders gradually changed with time. With the increase of excavations by the Portuguese, their need for black slaves increased, which was supplied by the local king, to work in Portuguese plantations and establishments. The slaves were never treated with humanity and this became a practise. Gradually, the whole population was in trouble and even royal family members of Congo were also driven as slaves. This lightened the internal fire for independence.

With the series of racial discrimination, the Congo people revolted against this inhumanity in 1665 under the leadership of Tchimpa Vita, local tribal leader. 20,000 Congo residents fought for independence but everything in vain. The war ended with the early death of the then Congo king. The revolt emerged again in 1684 with Tchimpa Vita trying to regain their lost position preaching as a nun. But she was condemned as a witch and burnt to death. She died but set the examples of revolt among all Africans to regain their independence.

Due to repeated protest by the tribal and local residents, the Portuguese lost their existence in the territory. They also got into other confusions of politics in world stage. Gradually, the territory got divided into small kingdoms, which became dominant in later years and wiped out the invaders. After much fight and sacrifice, the Republic of Congo got independence. Today, it is a multi party democratic country. Hundred and thousands of civilians, peasants and slaves were exploited and died of starvation, work pressure. However, they stood at their feet to oppose the foreigners and snatch away independence from them. This is a historical example to show the strength and urge for independence.

Upswing of the Revolution Traditions and Activities

Other interesting posts:

Labour Day; May Day; Workers’ Day; Day of Kazak

Noel — Sun, 01 May 2011 06:00:14 +0000

May Day Date: May 1

May Day is celebrated throughout most of the world as a public holiday.

May 1 is considered as the Labour Day by almost all the nations of the world. The workers of the world celebrate this as an annual holiday. This day is the result of a massive labor union movement; this day celebrates the social and economic achievements of workers. This day is also known as May Day. Not only these two names, May 1 has many other names like Worker’s day, National Unification Day, Day of Kazak people’s Unity, Eid el-Ommal, etc.

History of May Day/Labour Day

The Eight-Hour day movement is the origin of the Labour Day. This movement advocated eight hours of work, eight hours of rest, and eight hours of recreation for workers everywhere. It was a revolution in that period.

In Europe, this day has a much older significance. This day is celebrated as a rural festival, which is primarily more important than the Labour Day movement. This is now an international holiday and various countries hold multi-day celebrations. Some of the countries conduct parades, patriotic and labour oriented events, and shows and other events on this day. On the other hand, in Northern Europe, Walpurgis Night is on this scheduled night, and this holiday combines with the Labour Day in some nations.

Although, May 1 is considered as the Labour Day in various nations, Germany celebrates it on May 2. In 1933, Labour Day was established as an official holiday after the Nazi Party came to power. It was expected that this day would prove to be the symbol of the newfound unity between the state and the people. The next day, that is on May 2, all the free unions were prohibited and outlawed by the Nazis. Yet, since workers celebrated the holiday for numerous decades before any official state approval, the Nazi Party’s endeavor to appropriate it left no more term offense.

Although this day has many names, but the essence of them all is the same – to honor the work force of the nation.

May Day/Labour Day Traditions and Celebrations

Time has changed; so the way of celebrating the day too. Throughout the rest of the world, there are May Day marches and rallies held out in the various part of the country. In England, a grand May Day march at the the famous Brewhouse Yard gardens starts near the Castle, Nottingham.

Even today celebration of May Day has a touch of ancient culture and tradition. The maypole is still one of the major features of the May festivities with distinctive interpretations. But whatever way you look at it the theme of the May Day celebration is all about celebrating the renewal of life with new hopes, new dreams and new resolutions. May Day flower baskets are made and treats are left at the thresholds of the loved ones as a token of good wishes and love to strengthen the bondage and to rekindle the lost touches.

Other interesting posts:

Republic of Congo Commemorates the Life of President Marien Ngouabi (Marien Ngouabi Day)

Carol — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 16:17:03 +0000

Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) Marien Ngouabi Day: March 18

Marien Ngouabi Day is a public holiday in Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville).

Marien Ngouabi Day (alternative spelling, N’Gouabi) is celebrated in Republic of Congo every year on the 18th of March. Born on December 31, 1938 and died on March 18, 1977. Marien Ngouabi Day commemorates the life of Ngouabi who served as Congo’s military president from January 1, 1969 to March 18, 1977.

History of Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) Marien Ngouabi Day

In 1961, Ngouabi attended military school in Ecole Militaire Préparatoire and École spéciale militaire de Saint-Cyr in France. He returned to Congo a year after and was decorated Second Lieutenant while serving at Pointe-Noire. He was promoted to Lieutenant after only a year.

The start of the conflict between Ngouabi and the then President of Congo, Alphonse Massamba-Débat, began in the refusal of Ngouabi to serve again at Pointe-Noire. His decision has caused to lose his current rank and demoted to a second class rank on July 29, 1968. Massamba-Débat also ordered the incarceration of Ngouabi during that date. However, little did he know that his action only fueled the growing discontent of the military in his administration, so that, two days later, the military freed Ngouabi.

Ngouabi created the National Revolutionary Council (CNR) August 5, 1968 which effectively brought an end to Massamba-Débat’s governmental powers and forced him to resign in his post. Prime Minister Alfred Raoul briefly took the head of state position until December 31, 1968 when Ngouabi eventually served the presidency. Under his administration, Congolese Workers’ Party was the only political party that was legally allowed to exist. He also replaced the country’s name to People’s Republic of the Congo on December 31, 1969 during his time.

Ngouabi’s reign of power ended when he was assassinated on March 18, 1977. One of those who believed to have taken part in the assassination was Massamba-Débat, who was the president of Congo from 1963 to 1968. He was charged for treason and executed on March 25, 1977.

A day was dedicated to honor Ngouabi, hence, the annual celebration of Marien Ngouabi Day in the Republic of Congo on every 18th of March.

Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) Marien Ngouabi Day: Traditions, Customs and Activities

A special ceremony is held to commemorate the life of Ngouabi and his various contributions in the country. Government officials usually conduct wreath laying ceremony on monuments dedicated to the late president. Marien Ngouabi Day is one of the most important national holidays in Congo. Since it is a public holiday, it’s work-free.

Other interesting posts:

Republic of Congo Celebrates Youth Day

Carol — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 02:12:39 +0000

Republic of Congo’s Youth Day: Feb 8

Youth Day is a public holiday in Republic of Congo.

Republic of Congo, or simply the Congo, celebrates Youth Day every 8th of February each year. The Youth Day is celebrated to recognize the role of the youth in nation building and serves as a reminder for the government in their responsibility to securing the safety of children and in making sure that their rights are not violated.

Republic of Congo’s Youth Day also helps build awareness on the cultural and legal issues surrounding the youth particularly within the region.

History of Republic of Congo’s Youth Day

The never ending strife in all African regions urged the United Nations and other concerned youth organizations and governments across Africa to form Youth’s Day to create a Youth Day for each African country with hopes of sensitizing each government to prioritize the protection of the youth against slavery, discrimination, and violence. The Congo’s Youth day also supports the youth’s continued education and to engage them in decision making in hopes of building a better youth that will lead the future African generation.

The empowerment of the youth within the African continent is a battle cry among concerned youth and youth organizations across Africa. Republic of Congo’s Youth Day is used to reflect on the nation’s progress in providing the youth the necessary aid they need to empower themselves and help them become an active contributor to peace and progress in the country.

Republic of Congo’s Youth Day: Traditions, Customs and Activities

The celebration of Youth Day in Republic of Congo is similar to how other nations celebrate Youth Day. State-sponsored concerts, cultural events, and workshops take place around Republic of Congo’s capital. Small cities and communities around the country with the participation of private and public agencies and youth organizations and individuals conduct concerts, games and other exciting activities in support of the holiday.

Other youth organizations also conducts various social and community services such as cleaning the city streets, conducting education and awareness campaign on certain social and environmental issues affecting the youth and other valuable social voluntary work.

Other interesting posts:

New Year

Noel — Sun, 02 Jan 2011 00:41:57 +0000

New Year Date: January 01

New Year Day is celebrated worldwide.

New Year is an extravagantly celebrated festival in all the cultures in the world. Each culture celebrates New Year according to their calendar. Countries which follow the Gregorian calendar celebrate New Year on January 1st every year which is considered the most festive day amongst all the other days of the year.

New Year History

During the Roman period the New Year was celebrated on the first day of March. Later in 47 BC, Julius Caesar made changes in the calendar and named it the Julian calendar. Marco Antonio and Augustus Caesar later modified the calendar in 44 BC and 8 BC respectively. Finally in the late 1582, Pope Gregory XIII modified the calendar to the form of the one that we all use these days.

January 1st is the first day in this calendar and is celebrated with great significance to it. The expansion of the Western culture all over the world then made January 1 a universally celebrated festival. The New Year which is celebrated worldwide is celebrated with huge fireworks and balloons etc. People wish each other for a very healthy and a prosperous year ahead.

Previously, in Jewish tradition, honey is used to represent a sweet New Year ahead, Rosh Hashana (New Year celebrations in the Jewish tradition). As the traditional meal for that holiday, apple slices are dipped in honey and eaten after a prayer and with blessings recited for a good, prosperous and sweet new year. Some Rosh Hashana greetings show an apple and honey, symbolizing the feast. In some other Jewish communities, small straws of honey are given out to usher in the New Year. The New Year feast which is always followed by the Christmas celebrations, the last week of the year is considered as a week of enjoyment and celebration in the winter season.

Many countries celebrate the New Year in a very grand way. This celebration usually consists of fireworks display and other parades and festivities. For example, London has a major fireworks display along the River Thames, followed by a parade on New Year’s Day. Once, Sydney which had more than half a million people present to witness the celebrations of New Year launched more than 80,000 fireworks at midnight. It was the highest watched celebration on tele-vision worldwide. In Valparaiso more than two million visitors witnessed the huge fireworks in a natural setting. A total of more than 21 kilometers of fireworks were set up on the bay, starting from the commercial port city of Valparaiso to Concon, Chile. These all were set up for 25 minutes of entertainment.

New Year Traditions and Activities

Usually in New York, the celebration is focused around a large crystal ball that slowly descends in a ten second countdown in Times Square, and last year was also the party with the largest number of attendees with more than three million people witnessing the New Year celebrations. Edinburgh plays host to one of the world’s largest Hogmanay (meaning ‘the last day of the year’) events. Celebration here lasts for four days and visitors from all around the globe are attracted to take part in the street parties and festivities, and attend the concerts which take place during midnight.

Important Facts about New Year

New Year is the only festival which is celebrated worldwide. Even though there is no special history behind the festival, all people around the world look forward for this celebration. New Year is a festival in which something innovative and better is done each and every year.

New Years Day is also known as:

New Year Celebrations
New Year Holidays