Columbus Day is a national holiday in the United States, commemorating Christopher Columbus's arrival to the Americas on October 12, 1492. It has been celebrated since the early 18th century and was officially recognized as a federal holiday in 1937.
Here are some interesting facts about Columbus Day that you may not know:
1. Columbus wasn't the first person to discover America
Contrary to popular belief, Christopher Columbus was not the first person to reach the Americas. Norse explorer Leif Erikson is believed to have landed in present-day Canada around 1000 AD, almost 500 years before Columbus.
2. It was originally called Discovery Day.
When it was first celebrated in the 18th century, Columbus Day was known as Discovery Day. It wasn't until 1971 that it was officially recognized as Columbus Day by President Richard Nixon.
3. The first official celebration took place in New York City.
In 1792, the Columbian Order (a fraternal organization) held a ceremony to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Columbus' landing. This was the first recorded celebration of Columbus Day.
4. Many countries in the Americas also celebrate Columbus Day.
Columbus Day is not only celebrated in the United States but also in many other countries in North and South America, including Canada, Mexico, and several Caribbean nations.
5. It has been a federal holiday since 1937
President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared Columbus Day a national holiday in 1937 in honor of the 400th anniversary of Columbus' voyage.
6. Some cities have renamed the holiday.
In recent years, some cities and states have chosen to rename Columbus Day as Indigenous Peoples' Day to recognize and honor the Native American cultures that were affected by Columbus' arrival.
7. It has been a controversial holiday.
Columbus Day has faced criticism for its celebration of the colonization and mistreatment of indigenous peoples. In response, there have been calls to replace it with a different holiday that celebrates diversity and inclusivity.
As you can see, Columbus Day is not just a simple day off from work or school. It has a rich history and continues to be celebrated and debated across the Americas. Whether you choose to celebrate it or not, it's important to acknowledge and learn about the impact that Columbus' arrival had on our world. So, this holiday, take some time to reflect on its significance and educate yourself about the different perspectives surrounding it. Happy Columbus Day!
