Iceland was granted independence from Denmark on December 1, 1918. The Act of Union, also known as the Danish-Icelandic Act of Union, was signed on this date, establishing Iceland as a sovereign state in a personal union with Denmark. While it marked a significant step toward independence, Iceland didn't become a fully independent republic until June 17, 1944.
On that day in 1944, Iceland formally severed its ties with the Kingdom of Denmark and declared itself a republic. This decision was partly a response to Denmark's occupation by Nazi Germany during World War II. The people of Iceland, in a referendum, voted in favor of establishing a republic.
June 17th is now celebrated as Iceland's National Day, also known as Þjóðhátíðardagurinn, commemorating both the establishment of the republic and the birthday of Jón Sigurðsson, a key figure in Iceland's fight for independence during the 19th century.
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