TAKING A TRIP BACK IN TIME – 1943, THE YEAR THE LEBANESE FOUND THEIR FREEDOM

On this day in 1943, French occupation forces liberated Lebanon's elected leaders from jail, when their superiors backed down and confirmed the country's independence.

Consequently, Lebanon's Independence Day is celebrated on November 22nd.

The history of Lebanon’s Independence

General Henri-Fernand Dentz was elected as the high director of Lebanon in 1940, following the establishment of the Vichy regime in France. President Emile Eddeh’s resignation, as a result of this appointment, was effective on April 4, 1941. Dentz selected Alfred Naccache as a head of state, five days later. A few months later, when French and British forces were unable to stop their march into Lebanon and Syria, the Vichy government's rules came to an end. On July 14, 1943, an armistice was reached in Acre, opening the way for General Charles de Gaulle's visit to Lebanon.

National leaders in Lebanon used the occasion to request that de Gaulle formally acknowledge Lebanon's independence and end the French Mandate. General Georges Catroux, a delegate general under de Gaulle, declared Lebanon's independence on November 22nd, 1943, in response to national and international pressure.

How Lebanese celebrate Lebanese Independence Day?

National Day, also known as Independence Day, is one of Lebanon's most important and much anticipated official holidays.

Every year on November 22nd, the entire country is filled with joy and happiness, as people celebrate Lebanon's Independence. Lebanese politicians and members of the military march in a large parade, to commemorate the country's independence. From a people’s perspective, communities organize musical performances and cultural activities to highlight the Lebanese heritage.  The national flag of Lebanon is flown over buildings and streets as a representation of the nation's freedom and identity.

Despite the continuous turbulence, we as Lebanese go through since we exist as a country, there is no prouder citizen than the Lebanese. And the celebration of this day is a reminder that we are a resilient nation and people, always standing in the face of injustice.