First Republic Day commemorates the founding of the independent Republic of Armenia on May 28, 1918, following the Battle of Sardarabad and the collapse of Ottoman and Russian imperial rule.
First Republic Day, celebrated on May 28, commemorates the declaration of independence and founding of the First Republic of Armenia on May 28, 1918. This date marks the first instance of modern Armenian statehood — an independent nation governed by Armenians for Armenians, following centuries of foreign rule by Ottoman and Russian empires.
Though the First Republic of Armenia existed for only about two years before Soviet incorporation in 1920, it represents a pivotal moment in Armenian history. The founding of the First Republic demonstrated that Armenians could establish and govern a sovereign nation-state. For Armenians, this brief period of independence symbolizes the nation's aspiration for self-determination and sovereignty.
First Republic Day is celebrated on May 28 each year, commemorating the declaration of independence on May 28, 1918. In 2026, Armenians will mark the 108th anniversary of the founding of the First Republic of Armenia.
In the aftermath of World War I, the Ottoman Empire collapsed, and the Russian Empire underwent revolutionary upheaval. This created an unprecedented opportunity for Armenian independence. For centuries, Armenian territories had been divided between Ottoman and Persian/Russian empires. With both imperial powers weakened or withdrawn, Armenia briefly achieved the possibility of sovereignty.
However, this opportunity came amid conflict and instability. As Ottoman forces withdrew from the Caucasus region, Turkish nationalist forces and Azerbaijan, supported by Ottoman allies, sought to occupy Armenian territories. The survival of Armenian independence depended on military victory against these forces.
The Battle of Sardarabad (May 24-28, 1918) proved decisive. Armenian military forces, commanded by General Movses Silikyan and other officers, defeated Ottoman and Azerbaijani forces at Sardarabad, preventing the occupation of Yerevan. This victory made Armenian independence possible. Following the Battle of Sardarabad, the Armenian National Council declared independence on May 28, 1918, establishing the First Republic of Armenia.
The First Republic of Armenia, officially the Democratic Republic of Armenia, existed from May 28, 1918, to December 2, 1920 — a period of approximately two years and seven months. During this brief time, Armenians governed their own nation, established governmental institutions, and asserted Armenian sovereignty.
The First Republic faced enormous challenges. The country was devastated by World War I and the Armenian Genocide perpetrated by Ottoman forces. Borders were disputed, with Turkish forces continuing military pressure. Economic resources were limited. Yet despite these challenges, the First Republic represented Armenian self-governance and national aspiration.
The First Republic's existence ended when Soviet forces incorporated Armenia into the Soviet Union on December 2, 1920. The short-lived republic was replaced by Soviet rule. Yet the First Republic endured as a symbol — proof that Armenians could create and govern a nation-state, and a beacon of hope for future Armenian independence.
First Republic Day honors the historical achievement of establishing modern Armenian statehood. Armenians reflect on the courage and vision of the men and women who founded the First Republic and defended Armenian independence against overwhelming odds.
The victory at Sardarabad is integral to First Republic Day commemoration. Armenians honor the military heroes who fought at Sardarabad and died defending Armenian independence. Their sacrifice made the founding of the First Republic possible.
Official ceremonies and public gatherings mark First Republic Day. Government officials, cultural leaders, and citizens gather to commemorate this moment in Armenian history and reflect on the significance of Armenian sovereignty and self-determination.
First Republic Day is an occasion for Armenians to learn and teach about this pivotal period. Schools and community organizations use the day to educate about the First Republic, the Battle of Sardarabad, and the struggle for Armenian independence.
First Republic Day encourages Armenians to reflect on national identity, sovereignty, and the ongoing struggle for self-determination. The short-lived republic reminds Armenians of the fragility and preciousness of independence.
For diaspora Armenians, the First Republic represents a moment when the impossible became real. It symbolizes Armenian resilience and the capacity of the Armenian people to create sovereign institutions and govern themselves.
Though the First Republic lasted only two years, its significance cannot be overstated. For the first time in modern history, Armenians governed themselves as an independent nation-state. The First Republic proved that Armenian national aspiration was not merely a dream but could be realized through courage and determination.
The First Republic's collapse into Soviet rule would have seemed to many Armenians to mark the end of their independence dreams. Yet 71 years later, when the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, Armenia again achieved independence on September 21, 1991. The First Republic provided historical precedent and inspiration for the restoration of Armenian independence in the modern era.
First Republic Day is celebrated alongside September 21 Independence Day, creating a historical arc of Armenian independence aspiration. Together, these holidays frame Armenian national identity — the brief First Republic of 1918-1920 and the restored independence beginning in 1991. They testify that Armenian independence is not transient but central to Armenian national identity and destiny.
For Armenians worldwide, the First Republic represents a principle: that despite setbacks and occupations, despite centuries of foreign rule, the Armenian people retain the right and capacity to govern themselves. First Republic Day celebrates this principle and honors those who first demonstrated it. Explore more Armenian celebrations honoring national heritage and history.
Discover other sacred celebrations throughout the Armenian calendar that share deep cultural and spiritual significance.
Discover all the important festivals and celebrations in the Armenian national calendar.
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