Myanmar Peasants' Day
Myanmar Peasants' Day
In the 1800s, Burma was conquered by Great Britain, which made it a province of India (also under British control). In the 1900s, Burma first became a self-governing colony then became independent in 1948. The country was initially a democratic republic until 1962, when General Ne Win led a military coup d'etat. Since that time, the country has been ruled by a military government. In 1990, multi-party elections were held and the main opposition won a landslide victory, but the repressive military junta refused to hand over power. The United States has refused to recognize the name Myanmar, which has been used since 1989 by the military government, and continues to use the nation's previous name, Burma.
The predominant industry in Myanmar is agriculture. At one point, Myanmar was the biggest exporter of rice in Asia, but now their line of agricultural products is more diverse—beans, peas, black matpe, maize, sesame and by products, Niger seeds, various spices (coriander, dry ginger, turmeric, red chili, onions, and more), timber, and rattan.
The country could not support these agricultural activities without the peasant workers. To show their appreciation for the peasants' contribution to Myanmar society, the country has declared March 2 Peasants' Day. It is a national holiday.
It was also on this day in 1962 that Burmese General Ne Win led the military coup. The country holds parades on this day to honor him.
Myanmar Tourism Promotion Board
Marketing Committee
c/o Traders Hotel
Level 3, Business Centre
223 Sule Pagoda Rd.
Yangon Myanmar
www.myanmar-tourism.com