What happened in Tbilisi on 9 April 1989?
The dispersal of a peaceful rally and why the date matters.
Short answer
On the night of 9 April 1989, Soviet troops dispersed a peaceful pro-independence rally outside Government House on Rustaveli Avenue. Twenty-one people died, most of them young women, and hundreds were injured, including by toxic gas. The events strengthened the independence movement, and on 9 April 1991 Georgia restored its independence.
Why
- 9 April is National Unity Day in Georgia, a public holiday.
- A memorial to the victims stands by the old parliament building on Rustaveli Avenue.
- On the anniversary people lay flowers at the memorial.
Details
If you're in Tbilisi on 9 April, Rustaveli Avenue fills with people bringing flowers. It's a day of remembrance, so behave with restraint.
Tip
If you're in Tbilisi on 9 April, lay flowers at the memorial on Rustaveli Avenue as a mark of respect.
What may differ
Common misconception
What actually happens
People also ask
- What happened on April 9, 1989 in Georgia?
Sources
- Georgian National MuseumChecked at:
Historical dates follow commonly accepted sources.
National Unity Day of Georgia: April 9 — HistoryRelated questions
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What is the Georgian war dance with weapons called?
The Georgian war dance with real swords is called parikaoba, an ancient dance with extremely complicated acrobatic steps.
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Why is Georgia called Georgia, and what do Georgians call their country?
Georgians call their country Sakartvelo, 'the land of the Kartvelians', and a Georgian person is a Kartveli.
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What time is it in Tbilisi and Batumi, and which time zone does Georgia use?
All of Georgia, including Tbilisi and Batumi, is on one time, UTC+4.
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What is the Georgian chokha, and is it on UNESCO's intangible heritage list?
The chokha is part of traditional Georgian men's clothing, worn with a belt, a dagger, knitted britches and cowhide footwear.