Autonomy Day is observed in French Polynesia every June 29 as a public holiday that commemorates the historical relationship between the islands and France. The day marks the signing of a deal in 1880 by the last King of Tahiti, which led to the annexation of the kingdom by France. While the holiday does not celebrate the actual granting of autonomy, it reflects the region's colonial history, beginning with the first European visit by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. Over the years, French Polynesia transitioned from a protectorate to a colony, and eventually to a full overseas collectivity of France in 2003. The observance of Autonomy Day serves as a reminder of this complex history and the gradual evolution of the islands' political status.