In Bangladesh’s history, few days stand as significant as November 7, which is National Revolution and Solidarity Day. This day symbolizes a profound unity between soldiers and citizens alike, who came together to protect the sovereignty of their nation in the face of grave threat. The day holds a unique place as a reminder of the power of unity, courage, and loyalty to our country -- a spirit that echoes across generations.

The events that led to November 7 are rooted in one of the most turbulent times in Bangladesh’s history: Following the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on August 15, 1975, and the killing of four national leaders on November 3, the nation found itself in chaos. As Bangladesh struggled through these dark times, a hidden struggle for power emerged. It was in this storm of uncertainty that Major General Ziaur Rahman found himself imprisoned within Dhaka Cantonment. The situation seemed dire. But in a powerful moment, the people of Bangladesh -- alongside soldiers who understood the stakes -- rose up, freeing Zia in what became a symbolic victory for Bangladesh.

It was a turning point for Bangladesh’s journey toward stability. Zia’s release sparked a movement in Dhaka that was filled with the same passion and unity felt during the Liberation War in 1971. It reminded many of historic moments when imprisoned or exiled leaders came back to guide their nations through challenging times, like Napoleon’s return from Elba or Mandela’s rise in South Africa. For Bangladesh, Zia’s release was a beacon of hope and a call for national unity -- a moment that brought together civilians and military alike to protect the nation’s freedom.

What makes National Revolution and Solidarity Day so unique is its reflection of civilian-military unity. It wasn’t just a single leader or group; it was ordinary citizens, soldiers, workers, and students standing together. As American revolutionary Thomas Paine once said: “The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.” This day wasn’t led by elite politicians or a specific class -- it was fueled by the common people’s enduring love for their country, echoing the dedication that had burned bright since the Liberation War.

Much like the people who fought for independence in 1971, the citizens and soldiers who came together on November 7 recognized the value of their hard-won freedom. They understood that if Bangladesh were to survive, they had to stand as one. Just as the soldiers and citizens of 1975 rallied together to protect their sovereignty, the recent 2024 revolution saw a similar spirit, where the military’s refusal to side with an oppressive regime became a turning point. When the military stood with the people in 2024, it toppled Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year autocratic rule, echoing the powerful legacy of National Revolution and Solidarity Day. This unity between military and common citizens showcases the true strength of Bangladesh: a nation that, when united, can overcome even the most entrenched regimes in pursuit of justice and freedom.

What makes National Revolution and Solidarity Day so unique is its reflection of civilian-military unity

November 7 draws comparisons to other historical movements where ordinary people, united by a common cause, brought significant change. Think of the American Revolution, where people risked everything for independence, or the French Revolution, where the oppressed fought to overthrow the monarchy. Just as these movements were built on the strength of unity and a desire for a fairer society, Bangladesh’s November 7 represented a refusal to accept authoritarianism and a firm stance to protect its independence.

Ziaur Rahman became a symbol of the people’s desire to safeguard their nation’s future. Like the French commoners who lifted leaders to power with their own hands, the people of Bangladesh held Zia as a reflection of their collective will to defend Bangladesh’s independence and progress.

The unspoken opposition among soldiers to Brigadier Khaled Musharraf’s attempt to seize power sparked the November 7 revolution. On that day, Bangladesh’s people rose not because they were forced but because they genuinely wanted to protect their country’s future, showing the world that when people unite, they are unstoppable.

Taking on the role of Chief Martial Law Administrator, Zia faced the difficult task of leading a nation still in recovery from war and political instability. Like leaders such as Winston Churchill during World War II or Nelson Mandela in post-apartheid South Africa, Zia was focused on guiding his country through its most challenging times.

The legacy of the Liberation War is alive, woven into the fabric of society, and reflected in the country’s resilience and growth. National Revolution and Solidarity Day reminds us that patriotism is a living value, strengthened by the unity and courage that have protected Bangladesh from threats to its sovereignty.

The message of November 7 is as crucial today as it was in 1975. Though Bangladesh has evolved over the decades, the need for unity and commitment to democratic values is ever-present. Drawing on Zia’s vision, today’s leaders and citizens have a responsibility to continue building a peaceful, inclusive society that thrives on resilience and respect. By embracing this vision, we honour the foundation of our independence and strengthen the future of Bangladesh for generations to come.

HM Nazmul Alam is a Lecturer, in the Department of English and Modern Languages, International University of Business, Agriculture, and Technology. He can be reached at [email protected]