Turkmenistan Independence Day is celebrated on September 27. It is the day to celebrate its independence from the U.S.S.R. in 1991. It is a national holiday in Turkmenistan, so government offices and many businesses close down with numerous activities going on, such as military parades, cultural events, concerts, fairs, and a host of other fun activities. On the eve of Independence Day, distinguished military officers, politicians, public figures, athletes, and others are honored in a special awards ceremony. The major event that takes place is the military parade, which takes place at Independence Square in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan.
History of Turkmenistan Independence Day
Turkmenistan Independence Day is celebrated on September 27, but, this wasn’t always the case. It was formerly celebrated on October 27. During the 1700s and 1800s, the ever-popular Silk Road, which connected Europe and Asia, was a hotspot for trade, and Turkmenistan happened to be one of the important junctions on the road. Merchants traded cotton and silk and were well-known for the quality of their textiles.
As trade boomed in the region, it lead to a struggle for domination from different countries, such as Britain, Persia, and Russia, with the last one winning in a series of battles between 1865 and 1885. Turkmenistan fell under Russian domination, later becoming U.S.S.R.’s territory in 1925.
In 1991, a coup d’état was attempted in U.S.S.R. It was organized by top military officials and civilians, who wanted to form the State Committee on the State of Emergency (G.K.Ch.P.). They decided that it was necessary to take control of the U.S.S.R. from president Mikhail Gorbachev, mostly because of the loss of control over eastern European states and the effects of the Union treaty that was about to be signed. The coup lasted for just two days, however, as it was thwarted by the Russian leader, Boris Yeltsin. This had a ripple effect, that made Gorbachev lose influence and Yeltsin gain it.
Following the failed coup events, the Supreme Soviet of the Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic decided to adopt the law “About Independence and Bases of a State System of Turkmenistan,” and declared its independence on October 27, 1991, after 94% of the people voted in favor of independence. The date of celebrating independence in Turkmenistan was moved exactly a month back, to September 27, 2018.
Turkmenistan Independence Day timeline
Turkmenistan forms part of the Turkestan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic (A.S.S.R.) after the Russian revolution.
The Russian Civil War ends.
Turkmenistan becomes a Soviet Socialist Republic (S.S.R.).
Turkmenistan declares its independence on October 27.
The government in Turkmenistan changes the date of Independence from October 27 to September 27.
Turkmenistan Independence Day FAQs
Was Turkmenistan part of the Soviet Union?
Turkmenistan was part of the Soviet Union from 1925 to 1991 and was known as the Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic.
What is Turkmenistan famous for?
It is known for its autocratic government, large gas reserves, and the large Karakum Desert.
Is Turkmenistan a rich or a poor country?
Turkmenistan is rich in its natural resources and officially estimates a poverty rate of just 0.2%.
How to Observe Turkmenistan Independence Day
Educate people on the country’s history
As no knowledge is wasted, it helps to build the nation’s understanding of the wrongs and rights of the past. This is so no negative history is ever repeated.
Share on social media
Talk about Turkmenistan Independence Day on social media. It helps to spread awareness about the day.
Visit Turkmenistan
Pay a visit to Turkmenistan. The celebrations would be a sight to behold and you’ll be telling everyone about it when you’re done.
5 Interesting Facts About Turkmenistan
One of the least-visited countries
Turkmenistan receives about 14,000 visitors yearly and is one of the least visited countries in the world.
Turkmenistan is 70% desert
Turkmenistan is filled with desert and sand as it is home to the vast Karakum Desert.
Turkmenistan used to be sea
30 million years ago, Turkmenistan was covered in seawater.
The Darvaza Gas Crater was a mistake
The Darvaza gas crater, also known as The Gate of Hell, burns continuously and was caused by Soviet scientists in search of natural gas.
Plov is the favorite dish
Plov comprises mounds of rice mixed with meat, carrots, and spices and can be found everywhere in Turkmenistan.
Why Turkmenistan Independence Day is Important
It celebrates culture
Turkmenistan Independence day celebrates its culture. It reminds everyone about the rich culture of Turkmenistan, so they can appreciate it.
It attracts tourists
Turkmenistan is one of the least visited places in the world. The day attracts people from everywhere to help raise the statistics of tourism and helps to build the economy as well.
It recalls the past
The day helps the citizens recall the past. By doing this, they see how far they've come and think up ways to progress even further.
Turkmenistan Independence Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | September 27 | Friday |
| 2025 | September 27 | Saturday |
| 2026 | September 27 | Sunday |
| 2027 | September 27 | Monday |
| 2028 | September 27 | Wednesday |
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