90 years of independence in Iraq

Iraq has a complex history with many layers. Similarly, its Independence Day represents a mixture of meanings and celebrations. While the modern country of Iraq is relatively new, it’s also one filled with strife and instability. The country has been through multiple conflicts and occupations that have shaped its history in significant ways. Within this article, we explore the meaning of Independence Day in Iraq and why November is a festive month. You’ll also discover more about the current state of Iraq as well as its future outlook for stability and peace. If you want to learn more about this country, read on!

What’s the Meaning of Independence Day in Iraq?

Almost every country in the world has some form of Independence Day. This is a day when people celebrate the independence of their country from the rule of another. In Iraq, Independence Day is celebrated on October 2 because it’s on this day in 1932 that the country achieved independence from British rule. While there are many ways in which Iraq has remained under occupation since the 1930s, the country’s political freedom was significantly curtailed by British rule. Back then, Iraq was a monarchy led by King Faisal who sought to expand his territory through military action. This led to conflict with British interests in the region and a desire for the British to intervene in Iraq. Although there are different perspectives on the events and actions that followed, the result was that Iraq was no more. King Faisal’s actions led to the end of the Hashemite monarchy. His overthrow was followed by the creation of Iraq as a new nation that was gaining independence from British rule.

Why Is October Such a Festive Month in Iraq?

While the independence of Iraq in 1932 was a significant moment in the country’s history, many other important milestones occur in October. 

October 1: On this day in 1958, Iraq became a republic where the people elected their president.

October 2: On this day in 1974, Iraq signed a peace treaty with Iran that ended a decade of war. 

October 3: On this day in 2003, the US-led coalition invaded Iraq and toppled the government of Saddam Hussein. 

October 16: On this day in 2014, the Iraqi government officially declared an end to its fight against the Islamic State. 

While there have been many significant moments in Iraq’s history that occurred in October, they are all linked to the country achieving freedom. This is what has helped shape the celebratory nature of the month.

Origins of Iraq and Its Formation as a Modern Nation

The formation of modern Iraq is a complex process with many different aspects. It began with the end of British rule in 1932 and the creation of a new nation. However, the new borders of Iraq were not the result of any democratic decision-making. Instead, they were superimposed onto the region by the British. The country was created out of three distinct regions. The first was the province of Basra in the southeast of the country. The second was the province of Mosul in the north. The third and final region was the three provinces of Baghdad, Kirkuk, and Tikrit in the centre of the country. These three regions were joined together to create the modern state of Iraq on October 15, 1932.

The Long History of Conflict in Modern-Day Iraq

The Iraqi people have endured many conflicts since the formation of their country. These include the First World War, the Second World War, the Iran-Iraq War, the Gulf War, and the Iraq War. For many, this complex and lengthy history has led to a feeling of trauma. It’s also meant that the country has struggled to maintain a stable and peaceful society. Since the end of British rule in 1932, each decade of Iraqi history has been marked by significant conflict. The First World War and British rule saw the country occupied by the Ottoman Empire. The Second World War saw conflict with the British once again. These periods of instability were followed by the Iran-Iraq War where the neighbouring countries fought a long and bloody battle. The Gulf War once again saw conflict in Iraq with the country engaged in battle with the US-led coalition. The most recent conflict in Iraq is the Iraq War that’s often referred to as the Iraq War 2003. This conflict saw a US-led coalition invade the country and topple the government of Saddam Hussein.

Conclusion

Iraq has a complex history that is filled with conflict and periods of instability. While the modern country of Iraq is relatively new, it’s also one filled with strife and instability. The country has been through multiple conflicts and occupations that have shaped its history in significant ways. To celebrate the country’s formation on October 15, 1932, and the end of British rule, Iraqis observe their Independence Day on this day. Almost every year, the month of October is a festive one in Iraq and is marked by significant events that have shaped its history.