The adoption of Slovakia’s constitution is celebrated on September 1st annually. Amongst people living in Slovakia, it is known as “Deň Ústavy Slovenskej Republiky” and it is also a public holiday. After the constitution got implemented in 1993, Czechoslovakia split into two independent countries. If you want to learn more, read along.
Brief history
Slovakia’s history started in the 6th century B.C., when first Slavic people settled in the mountains of Central Europe. Slavic land has been occupied by Moravian Empire, the Hungarians, and the Germans. The First World War in 1918 brought Slovakia and Czechia together, which created Czechoslovakia.
After later occupation of Germany, the country was “freed” by the Soviet Union in 1945. Communism ruled until 1989 after protests leading up to a revolution. The Slovak Constitution in a result of the Velvet Revolution and until this day remains to have a great importance for Slovaks.
Source: Wikipedia.com
Timeline of the Constitution
1918 – after the World War I started, land of Slovakia and Czechia created a joint state called Czechoslovakia
1990 – the Communist Rule came to an end after 40 years and there are first drafts of the constitution
1992 – the constitution was passed on the 1st of September by the Slovak National Council
1993 – Czechoslovakia split into two separate and independent countries
“We really have a lot to be proud of. It’s amazing to represent a country for what it truly is.”- Zuzana Čaputová
Why is Constitution Day important?
- Independence
Slovak citizens have struggled with identity for centuries, the split of the nations paved a new way for people to create a new and better history for themselves.
- New country
As Slovakia is a one of the youngest countries, amending a constitution was quite a challenge. Annual constitution day renews the commitment to the public.
- Celebration of sovereignty
After the Hungarians, Communism, and many other struggles, Slovakia finally separated to create a new sovereign nation. The anniversary of the constitution reminds us of the strength and enables us to honour Slovak heroes.
Source: Pexels.com
Fun facts about Slovakia
- Slovakia produces the largest number of cars per capita in the world
- The most successful sport is ice hockey
- Celebrities like Andy Warhol, Angelina Jolie or Jon Bon Jovi have parents/grandparents from Slovakia
- In Levoča there is the tallest wooden altar in the world
- Slovakia has the largest supply of fresh water right after Austria
