Revolution Day is observed in Eritrea every September 1, commemorating the start of the Eritrean War of Independence led by the Eritrean Liberation Front in 1961. This public holiday marks the day when independence leader Hamid Idris Awate and his companions fired the first shots against the Ethiopian Army, initiating a struggle for freedom from Ethiopian annexation. Eritrea had been colonized by Italy in 1890 and later became a British protectorate until 1951, after which disputes over its future arose, culminating in its annexation by Ethiopia in 1962. The war for independence lasted until May 29, 1991, when Eritrea finally gained full independence. On this day, Eritreans reflect on their history and celebrate their national identity and sovereignty.