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The Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans

Honor the Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans, celebrating the heroes who fought for freedom and laid the foundation for Puerto Rico's independence.
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When it is?
February 19
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Category
Federal
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Country
Puerto Rico
Introduction

Get ready to celebrate and pay tribute to the brave hearts of the island on The Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans on February 19! Officially recognized in 2007 by the government of Puerto Rico, this day honours those who valiantly fought, and those who continue to advocate, for the freedom, rights, and independence of the Puerto Rican nation. This auspicious day is dedicated to lauding not only the heroes of the revolution, but also the writers, artists, sportspeople, scientists and all who, with their talent and hard work, have made Puerto Rico shine so brightly across the globe. Let's pay homage to these individuals and together celebrate the spirit of Puerto Rico!

History of The Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans

The Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans Dates

The Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans Timeline

<div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1809</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Ramón Power y Giralt Appointment</div><div class='timeline-text'>Prominent leader Ramón Power y Giralt was appointed as the representative of Puerto Rico in the Spanish Courts, marking a major milestone in Puerto Rican history.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1868</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Grito de Lares Uprising</div><div class='timeline-text'>The Grito de Lares, a rebellion against Spanish rule, marked a significant push for Puerto Rican independence.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1897</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Autonomy Charter Granted</div><div class='timeline-text'>Spain grants Puerto Rico its Autonomy Charter, recognizing its rights to self-governance, a significant step towards Puerto Rican independence.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1917</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Jones Act Citizenship</div><div class='timeline-text'>The Jones Act granted U.S. citizenship to Puerto Ricans, redefining their national identity but sparking debates over their nationhood.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1950</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Jayuya Uprising</div><div class='timeline-text'>The Jayuya Uprising was a notable revolt against United States rule, exemplifying Puerto Rican desire for total independence.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2007</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans</div><div class='timeline-text'>The Puerto Rican government officially recognizes The Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans to honor those who fought for the island's freedom and independence.</div></div></div>

How to Celebrate The Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans

<div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-header'><h3 class='facts-number'>1</h3></div><div class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 class='facts-title'>Research and share stories</h3><p class='facts-text'>Take the time to research the lives of illustrious Puerto Ricans and share their stories on social media using a dedicated hashtag. Sharing their achievements and stories could inspire others and keep their legacies alive.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-header'><h3 class='facts-number'>2</h3></div><div class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 class='facts-title'>Watch Puerto Rican movies or documentaries</h3><p class='facts-text'>There is no better way to appreciate the struggles and achievements of illustrious Puerto Ricans than to watch films or documentaries about their lives. You'll gain a great understanding and appreciation for the people who have shaped Puerto Rico.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-header'><h3 class='facts-number'>3</h3></div><div class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 class='facts-title'>Host a Puerto Rican meal</h3><p class='facts-text'>Cook and host a meal celebrating Puerto Rican cuisine. Serve dishes like Mofongo and Arroz con Gandules at your dinner. You can also explain to your guests the significance of the meal in relation to the celebration.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-header'><h3 class='facts-number'>4</h3></div><div class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 class='facts-title'>Visit a Puerto Rican community</h3><p class='facts-text'>If there is a Puerto Rican community or cultural center near you, plan a visit. You might be able to participate in cultural events or activities planned for this day.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-header'><h3 class='facts-number'>5</h3></div><div class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 class='facts-title'>Donate to a Puerto Rican cause</h3><p class='facts-text'>Consider making a donation to a cause or charity that supports Puerto Rico. This could be a great way to contribute directly to the betterment of the Puerto Rican community and nation.</p></div></div>

Why The Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans is Important

<div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>A</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Honoring Heroes of Freedom</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>The Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans is an opportunity to honor and pay tribute to the brave individuals who fought for the freedom and independence of Puerto Rico. By doing so, we not only remember their sacrifices, but also reflect on the values, courage, and determination inherent in their struggles.  It keeps the flame of patriotism burning bright in the hearts of Puerto Ricans.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>B</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Celebrating Puerto Rican Heritage and Culture</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>This day isn’t just about commemorating a rich historical past, it's also about recognizing the vibrant cultural heritage of Puerto Rico today. Celebrating with Puerto Rican food, watching films about the nation’s history, visiting cultural centers – these activities not just educate but also infuse a deep sense of pride about Puerto Rican roots and culture.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>C</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Inspiration and Pride in Contemporary Heroes</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>The Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans isn't just about the past, it's about the present too. Recognizing the achievements of contemporary Puerto Rican writers, artists, sportspeople, and scientists celebrate the continuing contributions of Puerto Ricans to the global stage. It sparks inspiration and bolsters pride in the breadth and depth of Puerto Rican talent and potential.</p></div></div>

5 Unexpected Facts about Illustrious Puerto Ricans Day

<div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>1</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>First Pro-Independence Newspaper</h3><p class='facts-content'>El Grito de Lares, the first newspaper advocating Puerto Rican independence was added to UNESCO's Memory of the World Register in 2016, representing a significant milestone in Puerto Rico's quest for freedom.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>2</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Cockfighting, a Cultural Heritage</h3><p class='facts-content'>Despite being banned in the rest of the US, cockfighting is permitted in Puerto Rico. This deeply embedded cultural practice symbolizes resistance and independence for many Puerto Ricans.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>3</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Puerto Rico's Own Constitution</h3><p class='facts-content'>In 1952, Puerto Rico adopted its own constitution, which was a significant step towards self-governance, and a testament to the continuous quest for autonomy of its people.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>4</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>The Coquí Frog, a National Symbol</h3><p class='facts-content'>The Coquí frog, native only to Puerto Rico, is a national symbol and its song is considered an emblem of the resilience and survival of the Puerto Rican culture.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>5</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Puerto Rican Flag Controversy</h3><p class='facts-content'>In the mid twentieth century, it was against the law to display the Puerto Rican flag anywhere on the island, an act which inadvertently fostered a stronger sense of national identity among Puerto Ricans.</p></div></div>

The Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans FAQs

The Day of Illustrious Puerto Ricans Dates

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