Military Parade and Royal Presence Mark the Day, While Critics Condemn Colonial History Celebration.
Spain’s National Day on Tuesday was celebrated with grandeur and ceremony, highlighted by a military parade in Madrid that included more than 2,600 troops, a flyover of aircraft, and a 21-gun salute. King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, escorted by cavalry, watched the spectacle from a platform as a parachutist with a massive Spanish flag descended to cheers from the crowd.
The Día de la Fiesta Nacional, also known as Dia de la Hispanidad, honors the country’s cultural and linguistic influence beyond Europe. The date, October 12, commemorates Christopher Columbus’ landing in the Americas in 1492, marking the beginning of European colonization. While this historical moment is celebrated by many, the day also sparks protests from those who view the celebration as a glorification of Spain’s colonial past.
Critics argue that the holiday overlooks the violence, exploitation, and devastation that accompanied the colonization of the Americas, particularly the suffering inflicted upon indigenous populations. As Spain celebrates its national identity, a growing number of voices are calling for reflection on the consequences of its imperial history.
