Uruguay Independence Day

What Is Uruguay's Independence Day?

August 25th is "Uruguay Independence Day," commemorating Uruguay's declaration of independence from the Empire of Brazil on August 25, 1825.

A Three-Year Journey From Declaration to Recognition

Uruguay's Independence Day is a moment to look back on the nation's long struggle for sovereignty and to share in the pride of its people.

• Origin: On August 25, 1825, the Congress of Florida declared independence from the Empire of Brazil (together with union with the United Provinces of the Rio de la Plata). This led to the Cisplatine War between Brazil and the United Provinces (later Argentina).
• Formal recognition: In 1828, the Treaty of Montevideo, mediated by Britain, led to independence as the Oriental Republic of Uruguay.
• Celebrations: Uruguay marks the day each year with parades and ceremonies held across the country.

A Small South American Nation's Path to Independence

In colonial times, the area of present-day Uruguay was known as the "Banda Oriental" (Eastern Bank) and was repeatedly contested by Spain and Portugal. In the 19th century, José Artigas led a movement for independence from Spain, but he was defeated by invading Portuguese forces, and in 1821 the region became the "Cisplatina Province" of the United Kingdom of Portugal, Brazil and the Algarves, later passing under the Empire of Brazil. In 1825, the "Thirty-Three Orientals" led by General Juan Antonio Lavalleja rose up, and independence was declared on August 25. After the war that followed, the 1828 Treaty of Montevideo, signed between Argentina and Brazil through British mediation, secured Uruguay's status as an independent nation.

Ways to Mark the Day

• Learn about Uruguay's history and the path to its independence
• Explore Uruguayan culture, including its passion for football
• Compare the independence histories of different South American nations
• Cook a Uruguayan dish to celebrate the occasion

A Small Nation's Enduring Pride in Freedom

Uruguay's Independence Day honors a people who forged their own path through a difficult history. On August 25th, take a moment to reflect on the story of independence written in a distant corner of South America.