The Azerbaijan Democratic Republic and the First Republic of Armenia declared their independence in a context marked by the dissolution of the Russian Empire and the chaos of World War I. The Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was proclaimed on May 28, 1918, represented a significant milestone as it became the first secular democratic republic in the Muslim world. It sought to unify various ethnic groups within its territory under a secular governance system, promoting national identity and sovereignty.

Similarly, the First Republic of Armenia also declared its independence on the same day, establishing itself amidst a tumultuous political environment, which had been exacerbated by the Armenian Genocide and subsequent territorial disputes. Both declarations were acts of self-determination reflecting the aspirations of these nations for autonomy and self-governance after centuries of foreign dominance. The leaders at the time, facing pressure from neighboring powers and local conflicts, aimed to solidify their nations' sovereignty.

The establishment of these republics had significant implications for the South Caucasus region. As they navigated the post-imperial landscape, the nations faced challenges of nation-building, governance, and addressing minority rights within their borders. Both republics represented unique efforts to define civic identity and engage with issues of democracy and national self-assertion, setting the stage for future developments in the region's geopolitical dynamics.