Independence Day (Tunisia)

Independence Day is a public holiday in Tunisia, and it is observed on March 20 each year. The holiday commemorates the anniversary of Tunisia's independence from France in 1956.

Tunisia is the northernmost country in Africa, and the indigenous people inhabited the area for thousands of years. During the 7th century BC, ancient Carthage became the most powerful country in this area. The Romans defeated it in 146 BC. Muslims then conquered Tunisia 800 years later in 697.

The Ottoman Empire occupied Tunisia for 300 years until 1881 when the French took Tunisia in 1574. In the early 20th century, several independence movements were formed, and nationalists started to strive for independence from France.

In 1934, Habib Bourguiba founded the Neo Destour party, which became the leading independent force in the following years. Fear of independence, the Neo Destour Party was banned by the French, and Habib Bourguiba was sent to French prisons. After he was released and returned to Tunisia in 1943, the New Destour returned to the armed resistance trying to force the French to leave.

In 1954, the French started to withdraw from Tunisia to lessen the violent conflicts, and on March 20, 1956, Tunisia achieved its independence from France. Habib Bourguiba became the Prime Minister of Tunisia.

The following is the list of Independence Day in Tunisia from 2022 to 2026.

Please check more public holidays in Tunisia: