date of holiday
The history of International Women’s Day begins with early protests against economic, social, and political inequality. In March 1857, women workers in New York City’s textile and footwear sectors organized a demonstration against grueling 16‑hour days and unfair wages. A later wave of demonstrations in 1908 again called for voting rights and better working conditions.
The first National Women’s Day was held in the United States on February 28, 1909, with mass meetings organized by the Socialist Party of America as part of the broader push for women’s suffrage. Historian Asya Polyakova explains that the date was chosen so rallies would occur on a Sunday when more women could attend.
In 1910, at the International Socialist Congress in Copenhagen, Clara Zetkin proposed a day to honor women’s struggle for equal suffrage. The following year saw celebrations in Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, and Austria. Rosa Luxemburg is remembered for helping shape the day’s spirit as a day of social and political rights.
The Russian Empire marked February 23, 1917 (old style), which corresponds to March 8 on the modern calendar, as a moment when women workers in Petrograd joined street demonstrations demanding peace, bread, and loved ones returned from the front. The scale of the protest made it a turning point toward revolution. The formal designation of March 8 as International Women’s Day came in 1921, and in 1965 the Presidium of the USSR’s Supreme Soviet enshrined it as a legal holiday. In the Soviet Union, the focus shifted from feminist goals to a broader celebration of all women and the arrival of spring. The holiday spread across socialist countries and, in 1975, the United Nations recognized it as International Women’s Day, aligning with the UN Decade for Women (1976–1985).
Goals and relevance of the holiday
Although International Women’s Day is meant to highlight gender inequality, in Russia it is frequently perceived as a day to honor women rather than a direct call for equality. Some younger people view it as a symbol of gender justice, but overall trends show mixed levels of awareness about gender issues.
There is a popular belief that Nadezhda Krupskaya introduced this celebration to the USSR in a festive style, which contributed to the image of the “Soviet woman” and the holiday’s domestic meaning. The day has become a national observance in many places, yet its political significance is remembered unevenly around the world.
Today, International Women’s Day is officially celebrated in more than 40 countries. In many places, however, the original political purpose is not always at the forefront of public memory or practice.
How is March 8 celebrated in different countries?
Post‑Soviet space
In numerous post‑Soviet nations, March 8 remains an official day off. In Russia and several neighboring countries, the day is spent honoring women, sharing time with family, and expressing appreciation. Flowers are a traditional gift, with tulips common today and mimosa historically associated with the holiday. Contemporary surveys show varied gift preferences, including flowers, perfume, clothing, and romantic dinners, reflecting personal tastes and changing customs.
China
In China, the term “woman” is often linked to women over 35, while younger girls may have separate celebrations on March 7. International Women’s Day is observed quietly at home with family, where mothers and grandmothers are celebrated as part of the family’s rhythms.
Japan
Japan does not grant a national public holiday on March 8. Instead, March is viewed as Women’s Month, with March 3 celebrated as Peach Blossom Day, also known as Doll Festival, highlighting different cultural traditions.
Italy
In Italy, International Women’s Day appears on the calendar but is not an official public holiday. Local feminist groups may organize rallies, and the mimosa flower remains a widely recognized symbol of March 8 as a sign of respect for women.
France
France has kept a strong link between the day and women’s rights. On March 8, activists highlight abuses and push for gender equality in ongoing campaigns and public discourse.
Germany
In Clara Zetkin’s homeland, March 8 has dimmed in public memory. While former East Germany celebrated with public recognition, reunification led to a decline in official observance.
Cuba
Cewex Cuba marks March 8 with large-scale national events that celebrate women’s contributions. Since the revolution era, Cuban women have been celebrated for their roles in society, with continued emphasis on empowerment and independence.
Overall, International Women’s Day remains a globally recognized observance with varied local expressions. Its historical origins in labor rights, suffrage, and social justice continue to shape conversations about gender equality across nations. Citations: historical timelines and scholarly insights provide context for the day’s evolution and its contemporary relevance.]