When is Martyrs' Day?
Martyrs' Day is a public holiday in the Togolese Republic on June 21st each year.
Also known as the Day of the Martyrs, this is a day to remember and honour all those who have lost their lives in the fight for a free and independent Togo.
History of Martyrs' Day
During the so-called scramble for Africa at the end of the 19th century, Togo became a German protectorate, then the German colony of Togoland in 1905. With Germany's defeat in the first world war, Togoland came under the control of Britain and France.
The country was finally unified as the Togolese Republic in April 1960.
Since gaining unity and independence, Togo has been scarred by a series of coups and dictatorships. Those soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the periods of civil unrest in the country's recent history are remembered on this day.
