When was azerbaijan founded

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Last updated: April 17, 2026

Quick Answer: Azerbaijan was founded as an independent republic on May 28, 1918, following the collapse of the Russian Empire. It was later incorporated into the Soviet Union in 1920 before regaining independence on October 18, 1991.

Key Facts

Azerbaijan first declared independence on May 28, 1918, forming the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic.
The Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was the first secular democratic state in the Muslim world.
Soviet forces took control of Azerbaijan in April 1920, dissolving the republic.
Azerbaijan became a Soviet Socialist Republic in 1936.
The country restored its independence on October 18, 1991, after the fall of the USSR.

Overview

Azerbaijan's founding is marked by two key historical moments: the establishment of the first independent republic in 1918 and the restoration of sovereignty in 1991. The modern Republic of Azerbaijan traces its roots to the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, which emerged after the Russian Empire collapsed during World War I.

This early republic was short-lived but historically significant, setting the foundation for national identity and governance. The country's current form stems from its 1991 independence from the Soviet Union, following decades of communist rule.

May 28, 1918: The Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was officially declared, becoming the first parliamentary democracy in the Muslim world.
1918–1920: The republic lasted only 23 months but introduced secular governance, equal rights for women, and a national army.
April 28, 1920: The Red Army invaded, leading to the dissolution of the republic and incorporation into the Soviet Union.
1922: Azerbaijan became part of the Transcaucasian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic before becoming a full SSR in 1936.
October 18, 1991: The Supreme Soviet of Azerbaijan adopted the Constitutional Act on State Independence, reestablishing sovereignty.

How It Works

Understanding when Azerbaijan was founded requires distinguishing between its initial formation and its modern reestablishment. The country's statehood evolved through distinct political phases shaped by regional and global powers.

Founding Date (1918):May 28, 1918 marks the creation of the first independent Azerbaijani state, recognized as a milestone in national history.
Democratic Republic: The Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was the first Muslim-majority country to grant women full voting rights.
Soviet Annexation: In 1920, Soviet Russia overthrew the republic, establishing the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic.
Constitutional Status: Azerbaijan was formally designated a union republic within the USSR in 1936, giving it nominal autonomy.
Independence Referendum: On December 10, 1991, a referendum confirmed independence, with over 95% of voters supporting sovereignty.
International Recognition: The UN admitted Azerbaijan on March 2, 1992, solidifying its status as a sovereign nation.

Comparison at a Glance

Key milestones in Azerbaijan's statehood compared across eras:

Event	Date	Significance
Declaration of Independence	May 28, 1918	Establishment of the first secular democratic republic in the Muslim world.
Soviet Takeover	April 28, 1920	End of the democratic republic; Azerbaijan becomes a Soviet republic.
Formation of USSR	1922	Azerbaijan joins the Transcaucasian SFSR within the Soviet Union.
Full SSR Status	1936	Azerbaijan becomes a direct constituent republic of the USSR.
Restoration of Independence	October 18, 1991	Supreme Soviet declares renewed independence after USSR's decline.

The table highlights the dual nature of Azerbaijan's founding—both as a pioneering 20th-century democracy and a post-Soviet nation-state. These transitions reflect broader geopolitical shifts in the Caucasus and Eurasia, influencing regional stability and energy politics.

Why It Matters

Azerbaijan's founding dates are crucial for understanding its national identity, legal continuity, and geopolitical role. The 1918 republic is celebrated as a symbol of democratic ideals, while the 1991 independence anchors its modern international presence.

Historical Legacy: The 1918 republic laid the groundwork for constitutional governance and civil rights in Azerbaijan.
National Identity: May 28 is commemorated annually as Republic Day, a national holiday.
Legal Continuity: The 1991 declaration references the 1918 republic, asserting unbroken statehood.
Energy Influence: As a key Caspian energy producer, Azerbaijan's sovereignty affects European energy security.
Regional Conflicts: Independence enabled Azerbaijan to assert control over territories, including the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
International Relations: Azerbaijan's UN membership and OSCE chairmanship stem from its 1991 sovereignty.

From its early democratic experiment to its current role in global energy and diplomacy, Azerbaijan's founding moments continue to shape its trajectory in the 21st century.