Independence Day in Libya is observed every December 24, commemorating the country's declaration of independence from British and French oversight in 1951. This holiday marks the establishment of the United Kingdom of Libya, following a history of colonization that began with Italy's control after the Italo-Turkish War. Libya was divided into Italian Cyrenaica and Italian Tripolitania until World War II, when British and French forces took control. The UN General Assembly declared that Libya should gain independence by January 1, 1952, leading to the official declaration on December 24, 1951. For many years, the holiday was not celebrated at the state level, particularly during Muammar Gaddafi's regime, which focused on the anniversary of his 1969 coup instead. It wasn't until 2011 that Libyans were able to celebrate Independence Day openly.