Self-governance Day is observed in Iceland every December 1, commemorating the anniversary of the signing of the Danish-Icelandic Act of Union, which officially recognized Iceland as a sovereign country. This holiday marks a significant milestone in Iceland's national movement toward independence, which gained momentum in the late 19th century while Iceland was part of Denmark. The act, signed on December 1, 1918, established the independent Kingdom of Iceland, which lasted until June 17, 1944, when Iceland was declared a republic. Although Self-governance Day is not a public holiday, many Icelanders, particularly those living abroad, celebrate it as a form of Independence Day, reflecting on the country's journey to full independence from Denmark.