Heroes' Day is observed in Cape Verde and Guinea-Bissau on January 20 to commemorate the assassination of Amílcar Cabral in 1973. Cabral, born on September 12, 1924, was a significant figure in the struggle for the independence of Portuguese colonies in Africa, co-founding the African Party of the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC) and leading its guerrilla movement from 1963 until his death. His assassination occurred while he was returning from the Embassy of Poland in Conakry and marked a profound loss for both nations. Despite his death, the guerrilla movement continued, ultimately leading to successful independence efforts. This public holiday serves to honor Cabral's contributions to the liberation of Cape Verde and Guinea-Bissau.