Today, November 4, Russia celebrates National Unity Day, a public holiday commemorating the country’s liberation from Polish-Lithuanian invaders in 1612. The day marks the victory of the people’s militia led by Kuzma Minin and Prince Dmitry Pozharsky, who united Russians from various classes and regions to expel the Polish garrison occupying Moscow.
National Unity Day has been celebrated in Russia since 2005, symbolizing the country’s commitment to unity, patriotism, and protection of its sovereignty. The holiday was reinstated to emphasize the importance of national unity and stability, drawing on historical events that showcased the strength of Russian solidarity.
On this day, Russians honor the bravery and selflessness of Minin and Pozharsky, who led the popular uprising against the Polish occupation. The pair’s victory in 1612 paved the way for the restoration of Russian statehood and the emergence of a new royal dynasty, the Romanovs.
The holiday is also closely tied to the Russian Orthodox Church, as November 4 is the feast day of the Our Lady of Kazan icon, believed to have protected the popular uprising. Many Russians attend church services and lay flowers at monuments dedicated to Minin and Pozharsky.
While National Unity Day is a significant holiday in Russia, its purpose can be misunderstood, with some viewing it as a call for unity among ethnic Russians against non-Russians. Despite this, the holiday remains an important part of Russian identity and a celebration of national unity and resilience.