Independence Day
June 17
Today, June 17, 63 years ago Iceland reclaimed full independence. June 17 is considered one of the most revered days in the calendar year and is celebrated all over Iceland.
Today in 1811 Jón Sigurðsson was born in Hrafnseyri (website) in the Westfjords of Iceland. Jón "President," as he is known due to his tenure as President of Parliament, is considered to be the father of Iceland’s independence movement and one of the most influential individuals to affect the movement. His life and contribution to Iceland is remembered on this day and has become synonymous with celebration and patriotism.
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Ambassador Albert Jónsson and his wife Ása Baldvinsdóttir and the Icelandic Association of the Washington D.C. area held a reception at the Ambassador’s residence commemorating Jón Sigurðsson and Iceland’s Independence Day.
