Seychelles Independence Day takes place on June 29. The Seychelles has been a member of the Commonwealth of Nations ever since it was granted independence in 1976. The anniversary of their independence is usually celebrated by a vibrant display of pride and patriotism that spreads throughout the city. Streets are usually decorated with the bright colors of the Seychelles flag. Even the lamp posts are also decorated with twinkling lights. The skies light up at night due to the fascinating fireworks.
History of Seychelles Independence Day
The Seychelles archipelago consists of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean at the eastern edge of the Somali Sea. The Islands were first sighted by Vasco da Gama in the year 1502 who named them the Admiral Islands in honor of himself. The islands were then visited by Arab traders and Madagascar settlers albeit evidence for their visit is still vague. The first recorded landing was that of British men, the British East India Company ship Ascension landed there in 1609 but did not settle there.
Then, 140 years later, France turned its attention to Seychelles, hoping to establish a speedier route from Mauritius to India. Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais, the French administrator of Mauritius, dispatched the explorer Lazare Picault to locate the archipelago. Picault came to the island that bears the administrator’s name today, Mahé, in 1742.
As a result of the French Revolution, the settlers created a Colonial Assembly in 1790 and resolved to rule their colony. They thought that Seychelles’ land should be given to the children of current colonists, who have the right to lead the colony as they see fit, rather than as Mauritius dictates. In 1794, Jean-Baptiste Queau de Quincy gained authority over the colony. He utilized his cunning and prudence to navigate Seychelles through the years of war ahead.
The first civilian administrator of the British regime was Edward Madge. He had a bitter feud with Quincy, who remained in administration as Justice of the Peace. It wasn’t until 1964 that new political movements rose. The Seychelles People’s United Party (S.P.U.P.), later becoming Seychelles People’s Progressive Front (S.P.P.F.), was founded that year. Led by France-Albert René, they advocated for socialism and independence from Britain. After elections in 1974, when both political parties in Seychelles campaigned for independence, negotiations with the British resulted in an agreement under which Seychelles became an independent republic within the Commonwealth on June 29, 1976.
Seychelles Independence Day timeline
Seychelles International Airport's official inauguration on the main island, Mahé, takes place.
France-Albert René rises to power through a coup d’état and turns the Seychelles into a one-party socialist state.
Education becomes free and compulsory for children between six and 16.
The multi-party system is introduced and takes over the one-party state.
Seychelles Independence Day FAQs
What happened in the Seychelles in 1770?
Fifteen settlers and a dozen slaves settled in the Seychelles.
Who founded the Seychelles?
Vasco da Gama discovered Seychelles.
What does ‘Anse’ mean in Seychelles?
“Anse Royale” is a French term that means “Royal Bay.”
Seychelles Independence Day Activities
Visit a parade
Countries celebrate their independence with parades and the Seychelles is no different. Get information on when and where the parade will be happening before that day so you can watch it.
Participate online
If you can’t visit the Seychelles and participate in their celebrations, try to find online content, such as posts and videos, that records the day’s events. You can also post about the day and let others know.
Your independence
An Independence Day is perfect to be turned into an annual tradition for your own independence. Try to take your first step towards a healthier life. Break free from something you are dependent on; a bad habit, an addiction, e.t.c.
5 Facts About Islands Of The World
The most populous island
Java has over 130 million people.
The highest island mountain
Puncak Jaya Mountain has that honor.
Some islands are manmade
The Kansai Airport in Japan sits on a manmade island.
A desert island
These islands are uninhabited.
Napoleon Bonaparte
The Emperor of France was born on the island of Corsica.
Why We Love Seychelles Independence Day
Freedom
Every country deserves freedom. How could we be unhappy about citizens of the Seychelles taking back their freedom?
Seychelles is lovely
It’s a lovely island with lovely people. They deserve the best celebration ever.
It gives new hope
Gaining independence as a nation is a reminder that we can do a lot together. It reminds us that there is hope for change.
Seychelles Independence Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | June 29 | Sunday |
2026 | June 29 | Monday |
2027 | June 29 | Tuesday |
2028 | June 29 | Thursday |
2029 | June 29 | Friday |