Independence Day of the State of Somaliland is observed in Somalia every June 26, commemorating the proclamation of independence of British Somaliland as the State of Somaliland in 1960. This public holiday marks the historical moment when British Somaliland gained independence prior to its unification with Italian Somaliland to form the Somali Republic on July 1, 1960. The Republic of Somaliland, which considers itself the successor state of the original State of Somaliland, celebrates this day despite being internationally recognized only as an autonomous region within the Federal Republic of Somalia. The day serves as a reminder of the region's quest for independence and self-determination.