KTL’s Post

Celebrating 50 Years of Freedom Today marks the 50th anniversary of the Portuguese Carnation Revolution, a moment that reshaped the course of a nation and stands as a testament to the power of (peaceful) resistance — through the bravery of individuals like Celeste Caeiro, who, with a simple gesture captured in the photo below, helped symbolise the triumph over oppression. [As an aside, I can see a future where the Sunflower, much like the Carnation is for the Portuguese today, becomes a symbol of hope for the Ukrainian people.] On this day in 1974, the Portuguese reclaimed their voice and future with barely a shot fired. The 25th of April, alongside the 25th of November (when a left-wing coup d'état in the following year failed to usher the country into a communist state), aren't just dates on the calendar; they are celebrations of freedom after nearly five decades of dictatorship and repression, marking the outset of a sustainable representative democracy in Portugal—away from the violent and unstable first experiment between 1910-1926. As I reflect on the legacy of the Carnation Revolution, it's crucial to remember that freedom is never guaranteed. It's a precious gift earned through the courage and sacrifice of those who came before us. We must cherish and protect these fundamental values, for they are the cornerstone of human flourishing—and we stray away from them at our great peril. I also want to express my appreciation for what typically emerges from the project of liberty: considerable economic and social mobility. Personally, it's a journey that led me to England, a country that embraced me with open arms. I'm endlessly grateful for the chance to live a life of purpose and responsibility, with opportunities unimaginable to members of my lineage a mere two generations prior (at the outset of the 1970s, Portugal was a predominantly agrarian society with illiteracy rates of roughly 30%). Happy Freedom Day to all! #25deAbrilSempre #CarnationRevolution #FreedomDay

Today, Portugal celebrates Freedom Day, commemorating the Carnation Revolution of April 25, 1974, a pivotal moment that not only changed the course of Portuguese history but also stands out globally for its almost entirely nonviolent nature. This peaceful coup ended decades of authoritarian rule under the Estado Novo regime and sparked the decolonization of Portuguese colonies in Africa. What makes the 25th of April so remarkable is the way it unfolded—without bloodshed, contrasting sharply with many other revolutions that led to extensive conflict. It was a military-led movement, supported by widespread civil resistance, that quickly turned into a festive celebration as people filled the streets, placing carnations in the muzzles of rifles and on soldiers' uniforms. On a personal note, this day holds a deep resonance due to my grandfather's experiences. He fought in the Portuguese Colonial War, also known as the War of the Overseas. While serving, he was torn away from his young family—his son, his wife—to fight in a conflict that was dictated by the motives of others, not by the soldiers' own choices. Despite the hardships, he sought to find moments of joy and connection amid the adversity. Reflecting on his stories is crucial, especially today, as Europe sees a resurgence of right-wing movements. It's important to remember not only the official narratives found in history books but also the personal histories carried in the hearts of our elders. These stories of individual sacrifice, often reluctant and forced, highlight the complexities of freedom and the heavy costs of political and ideological battles. As we observe this day, let's honor those like my grandfather, who despite personal misgivings, fulfilled their duties under challenging circumstances. Let’s listen to and learn from the past, ensuring that the values of democracy, freedom, and peace are never taken for granted. #FreedomDayPortugal #CarnationRevolution #HistoryMatters

📌 Liberation Day, April 25 Italy celebrates Liberation Day, or Festa della Liberazione, on April 25th each year, marking it as a national public holiday. This day witnesses the closure of schools, public offices, and most shops, while parades take place nationwide. Liberation Day serves as a poignant remembrance of the downfall of the Fascist regime and the end of Nazi occupation during World War II. It also honors the triumph of Italy's Resistance movement, composed of brave partisans who defied the regime. Emerging in 1943, the party formed a network of anti-Fascist activists from various walks of life, including workers, farmers, students, and intellectuals, spanning across Italy. Together, they waged armed resistance against Nazi occupation and the Fascist rule, transforming their struggle into both a war for liberation and a civil conflict. The annual observance commemorates the pivotal moment in 1945 when the National Liberation Committee of Upper Italy (CLNAI), a political coalition representing the Italian Resistance, broadcasted a nationwide call for a popular uprising and a general strike against the Nazi occupiers and Fascist rulers. This proclamation, delivered by partisan leader and future Italian president Sandro Pertini, ultimately led to the capture and execution of Fascist leader Benito Mussolini three days later. Liberation Day stands as a monumental milestone in Italy's history, setting the stage for the historic referendum on June 2nd, 1946. During this referendum, Italians voted decisively in favor of establishing a republic and rejecting the monarchy, which had been tarnished during the war, prompting its members to seek exile. Today's day is the mark of the 79th anniversary of this so proudly achieved moment! The song ''Bella Ciao'' reflects exactly that, the Italian resistance in the search for freedom. Being free is without a doubt our most precious gift!! 🫶🙌 #selectitaly #selectitalytravel #italy #liberationday #april25 #freedom #nationalholiday #curiosity #travel #travelaround #travelmoments #travellife

The 25th of April is a significant national holiday in Portugal, known as "Dia da Liberdade" or "Freedom Day." It commemorates the Carnation Revolution of 1974, a peaceful coup that overthrew the Estado Novo, an authoritarian regime led initially by António de Oliveira Salazar and later by Marcello Caetano. The coup of the 25th of April 1974 marked a turning point for Portuguese society, ending decades of dictatorship and sparking a series of rapid political and social reforms. In 1976 a new constitution was enacted, establishing Portugal as a democratic republic. The fact that this revolution was notable for its non-violence and the symbolic use of the carnations, which soldiers placed in their rifles and on their uniforms, earning it the name Carnation Revolution, is a testament to this beautiful peace-loving country, which we are lucky enough to call home. Each year, Freedom Day is celebrated across Portugal with parades, concerts, and exhibitions, serving as a reminder of the value of democracy and the importance of maintaining these freedoms. The day is a national reflection on the peaceful transition to democratic governance and the enduring significance of the events of the 25th of April 1974. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the revolution, so it is especially important. Shops and businesses are closed today to enable the country to come together and celebrate. 🇵🇹💃

Today in Portugal we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 25 de Abril revolution, is a pivotal moment in Portuguese history. This day in 1974 marks the overthrow of an authoritarian regime, which had been in power for nearly five decades. The revolution brought an end to dictatorship and ushered in a new era of democracy, freedom, and social progress in Portugal. April 25th in 1974 was largely peaceful, with a movement initiated by the military but massively supported by civilians, and led to significant political and social reforms. Portuguese people celebrate this day as a symbol of liberty, democracy, and the triumph of the people's over oppression. It's a time to reflect on the country's journey towards freedom and to honor those who fought for democracy and human rights. During the celebration, you can expect to see parades, concerts, cultural events, and gatherings where people come together to commemorate this historic milestone in Portugal's history.

🇩🇪 As we commemorate October 3rd and the peaceful reunification of Germany today, we should also reflect on the challenges of our time. 🇩🇪 The reunification in 1990 for us germans wasn’t just a celebration—it was (and still is!) a long, complex process of integrating two societies with different systems, values, and experiences. It required patience, resilience, and a willingness to embrace difficult conversations. Today, we face new and some still remaining challenges that demand the same level of courage and commitment. From economic shifts to technological disruption challenged by ongoing war's and social divisions, our world often feels fragmented. But the lesson of reunification is clear: even in times of division, progress is possible through collaboration, understanding, and shared purpose. As we honor this historic day, let’s remind ourselves that unity is not just a moment but a continuous effort—one that we must strive for in our daily lives, in our workplaces, and across society. 🤝 For that, we should remain united as Germans, Europeans, and supporters of a free world.

🇲🇱 Happy Independence Day, Central African Republic! 🇲🇱 Today, I am excited to celebrate the 64th Independence Day of the Central African Republic (CAR) and reflect on the journey of this remarkable nation. August 13, 1960, marked CAR’s emergence from French colonial rule, a pivotal moment that shaped its path towards self-determination and unity. 🌍✨ Historical Significance: The road to independence was marked by the vision and leadership of figures like Barthélemy Boganda, who played a crucial role in advocating for the nation’s sovereignty. CAR's transition to independence was not just a political shift but a significant moment in embracing and preserving its diverse cultural heritage. Impact of Colonialism: The legacy of colonialism left a complex imprint on CAR, with imposed borders and socio-economic disruptions. Despite these challenges, CAR has shown remarkable resilience and strength. Understanding this historical context is crucial as we appreciate the ongoing efforts to overcome the effects of colonial rule and build a prosperous future. Celebrations and Festivities: Independence Day in CAR is celebrated with vibrant traditions, including music, dance, and community gatherings. These festivities are a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of CAR and the unity of its people. It’s a day to honor the diverse cultures and celebrate the nation’s journey. Looking Ahead: As CAR continues to navigate its post-independence path, it’s inspiring to see the progress and potential for growth. The spirit of resilience and innovation is driving positive change, and I’m proud to support and celebrate the Central African community in their achievements and aspirations. Wishing everyone in CAR and the global Central African diaspora a joyous and reflective Independence Day! 🎆🇲🇱 #CentralAfricanRepublic #CARIndependenceDay #CentralAfricanHeritage #CulturalCelebration #Resilience #ProudToCelebrate #BarthélemyBoganda #AfricanIndependence #CelebrateUnity #GlobalCommunity

Visiting Auschwitz: Navigating Remembrance with Respect As professionals engaged in cultural preservation, education, or tourism, understanding the protocols at historical sites like Auschwitz is crucial. Our latest article addresses a common question: Can visitors leave flowers at Auschwitz? Key insights include: • Official guidelines on leaving tributes • Appropriate ways to pay respects • Prohibited items and actions • The importance of site preservation This information is vital for: Tourism professionals History educators Cultural heritage managers Anyone planning a visit to Auschwitz Ensuring respectful commemoration while maintaining the site's integrity is a delicate balance. Learn more about how to navigate this sensitive issue: https://lnkd.in/d9MmjGkp Let's continue to educate and promote responsible tourism at historical sites. #CulturalHeritage #HistoricalPreservation #ResponsibleTourism #Holocaust Remembrance #ProfessionalDevelopment

On the occasion of the 76th Israel Independence Day, I wanted to share with you my thoughts ... Our country is 76 years old. And what haven't we been through... and we're still going through... For 3000 years this nation has fallen, risen, and fallen again, always accompanied by light, optimism, and a desire to improve the world... And how many improvements has this nation brought to the world... including our country... Since its establishment, how many inventions has it brought... Always facing towards the good, towards improvement. So proud to be part of the START-UP NATION, of this process that never stops, not even during wartime... I have always been proud to tell the world that I work in Israeli high-tech companies, bringing changes to all areas of life, always making sure that everyone knows what "Made in Israel" means... And now, even in my new business that helps people travel with peace of mind, using a platform for hotels worldwide, an Israeli development, where a large part of the support (and real support, not bots) is based here in Israel. The company’s people are always working to improve the system, innovate with the latest technologies, ensure more suppliers to reduce costs, and many more solutions... So for your next business or vacation travel, think again about where to book from. Whether you need help planning a trip in detail with personal guidance or if you are the type who likes to organize on your own, I invite you to talk to me first. I'll end with a quote I loved: “The desire to build, the desire to live life to the fullest, the desire to help people live better lives: that's the standard that we hold ourselves to!" ---