Loyalty Day (Argentina)

Loyalty Day (Día de la Lealtad) in Argentina commemorates October 17, 1945, a pivotal date in the country's political history. On this day, a massive demonstration of workers and union members took place in Plaza de Mayo, Buenos Aires, demanding the release of Juan Domingo Perón, then Vice President and Secretary of Labor. Perón had been arrested days earlier due to growing concerns among conservative elements within the government and military about his rising popularity and his labor-friendly policies.

The spontaneous mobilization, largely driven by the working class who felt Perón was their champion, pressured the government to release him. Perón appeared on the balcony of the Casa Rosada (the presidential palace) that evening, addressing the jubilant crowd. This event is widely considered the foundational moment of Peronism, the political movement that would dominate Argentine politics for decades.

Loyalty Day is celebrated by Peronist parties and organizations as a symbol of the strong connection between Perón and the working class, and as a demonstration of popular support for his policies. It is not a national holiday, but significant rallies and commemorations are typically held, often featuring speeches, musical performances, and displays of Peronist symbols. The day serves as an occasion to reaffirm Peronist ideals and to reflect on the legacy of Juan Domingo Perón.