Following the Great Arab Revolt during World War I, the Ottoman Empire which included modern-day Jordan was partitioned by Britain and France, leading to the establishment of the Emirate of Transjordan as a British protectorate in 1921 by the Hashemite Emir Abdullah.

Following World War II, the Jordanian and British governments entered into negotiations for Jordan’s independence, which were finalized in the Treaty of London in 1946.

Award presentations, political speeches and diplomatic visits are commonplace on the holiday.

In the Jordanian Armed Forces, Presentation of Colours ceremonies and national/unit military parades are common during the day, as well as a 21-gun salute in the capital.

On the civilian level, festive events and activities including a fireworks display.