For Russians the return of Crimea was a major moment in history and a massive cultural shift. Up until that point in many was Russians saw their society as being ruled by a wonderful president surrounded by a less than wonderful elite. People who lived through the 1990s were very pessimistic about the state of the nation and especially its government.

But when, seemingly all of a sudden, the Russian state proved it was ready to “stand up for the little guy” this changed something in the minds of the population. It was a moment when Russia became a nation ruled by a “government of the people, by the people and for the people”. Without the Black Sea Russia would never be able to become a great power once again, which would have been a perhaps fatal humiliation. And so, the Russians defied the West, conducted a successful referendum and returned this jewel of a peninsula back home, damn the consequences.

Of course, it goes without saying that the Crimea is an inherent part of Russia, that it is a beautiful place and a vacation hot-spot even during times of conflict and produces plenty of different wines that are gaining global popularity. But the real triumph was President Putin hearing the cries of the people and despite sanctions and threats from the West he acted as the population demanded of him. Not only was the referendum an act of democracy but so was the decision to conduct them it the first place done so by the will of the Russians outside of the Crimea.

Image above: “Moscow is the heart of Russia, Sevastopol is the soul of Russa, we are together forever!”

Not only did Crimea return home but a lot of pride in being Russian came with it as well. In 2014 it was just a few years after the “white ribbon” protests had some successes in starting a color revolution in Moscow. But, with the return of Crimea a new faith in the state and in Russia itself was reborn and Russia was no longer a mere plaything of Western powers. The masses had a government they could believe in once more.

Although it is fun to waive flags, and drink Crimean wine, we should remember that this day is not so much about one “oblast” but about the return of Russia as a nation to the playing field of the great game. This day is a symbol of resistance and resilience, and a reminder that no matter what, in the end, Russians never surrender.