Presidential Library Marks 28 May — Independence Day with Video Presentation and Book Exhibition
On the occasion of May 28 – Independence Day, the Presidential Library has prepared a thematic video presentation and organized a traditional book exhibition entitled “May 28 – Independence Day”.
On 28 May 1918, the Declaration of Independence adopted by the National Council of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic proclaimed the state independence of the Azerbaijani people to the world and marked the beginning of a new stage in the nation’s political history. During its brief period of existence, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic established the first parliament and government, instituted state symbols, and undertook significant steps toward the formation of a political and legal system of governance. Founded upon democratic principles, the Republic entered history as the first parliamentary republic in the Muslim East and exerted a substantial influence on the subsequent political and legal development of modern Azerbaijan, as well as on the consolidation of traditions of independent statehood.
The video presentation dedicated to Independence Day highlights, on the basis of historical materials, the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, the historical significance of the Declaration of Independence, the development of democratic traditions of governance, and the formation of the idea of national independence. Particular attention is devoted to the political and legal reforms implemented during the Republican period, the granting of suffrage to women, the establishment of national state symbols, and the preservation of the tricolour flag as a symbol of the statehood of modern Azerbaijan. Structured in chronological sequence, the narrative of the video reflects the continuity of political tradition from the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic to the contemporary independent Republic of Azerbaijan.
The traditional book exhibition entitled “28 May — Independence Day” features selected publications dedicated to the political and diplomatic activities of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, parliamentary traditions, the process of state-building, military history, national educational and press policies, the ideology of independence, émigré heritage, the activities of prominent statesmen, as well as archival documents and scholarly studies relating to the period. The publications presented at the exhibition illuminate various aspects of the Republican era on the basis of academic approaches and historical sources, thereby contributing to the formation of a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
The exhibition serves as a valuable resource for a broad readership, including researchers, students, and all those interested in the history of statehood and seeking a deeper understanding of the political legacy and independence history of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic. Furthermore, the event holds particular significance in terms of preserving historical memory and promoting the national values of independence.
