When is Anguilla Day?
Anguilla Day is a public holiday observed on Anguilla on May 30th.
It is the National Day of Anguilla, a British Dependent Territory and commemorates the island's determination of independence on May 30th 1967.
History of Anguilla Day
At only 16 miles (26km) long, Anguilla is the smallest of the five British Overseas Territories in the Caribbean. It was first colonized by English settlers from nearby St. Kitts in 1650. Despite some half-hearted attempts by the French to take control in the 17th and 18th centuries, the island was finally recognised as a colony by the British in 1825.
The 1830s saw a union of St. Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla on Britain's recommendation, a move that was unpopular with the majority of Anguillans as it was thought that representation of the island was neglected.
In 1958, St. Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla became part of the Federation of the West Indies. The Federation collapsed in 1962, and St. Kitts -Nevis-Anguilla was made an associated statehood.
Resentment against this political decision grew, and on May 30th 1967, the people of Anguilla marched on the Police Headquarters and evicted the Royal St. Kitts Police Force from the island.
Britain intervened and a peacekeeping committee was established, with British authority being fully restored in July 1971. Although it took until December 19th 1980 before Anguilla fully seceded from the association, the events of May 30th are celebrated today as the most important step towards Anguilla's autonomy.
Anguilla Day is celebrated by a colourful parade and a round-the-island boat race.
