Azerbaijan Museum of Independence was founded in 1991.The main purpose of the founding of the museum is to present consecutive stages of struggle for independence of Azerbaijan people, covering the period from ancient times to present day, as well as the most important events in their cultural and historical life. More than 22000 exhibits are kept in museum. Museum consists of six halls.
Materials relating state attributes of the Republic of Azerbaijan, dividing of Azerbaijan into khanates at the second half of the 18th century are presented in the first hall. Copy of documents about March Genocide of 1918, Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, stamps, banknotes of that period are demonstrated in the exposition. The exhibits reflecting national liberation movements taken place in the first half of the 20th century in Southern Azerbaijan, repressions carried out in 1920-1950, participation of Azerbaijan in World War II in 1941-1945, struggle against Armenia related with its territorial claims for Mountainous Garabagh and against Armenian terrorism, tragedies of 20 January and Khojaly are displayed in the next halls.
The sixth hall is devoted to the modern period of Azerbaijan. This period is marked by the development in economic, foreign policy, army, culture and sport. The activity of founder of independence Azerbaijan – Haydar Aliyev, President Ilham Aliyev is displayed in this hall. The role of Haydar Aliyev Foundation in cultural life of country is especially marked.
22 museums were destroyed in the territories seized during the military occupation. 18000 exhibits from Jabrayil museum are saved in the museum, part of them are demonstarted in the exposition.
