Columbus Day

## What is Columbus Day? **Columbus Day** is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates the landing of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492. It is observed annually on the second Monday in October and celebrates Columbus's voyages and their historical significance. The holiday is marked by various activities, including parades, festivals, and educational programs, though it has become increasingly controversial due to its association with the negative impact of European colonization on indigenous peoples. Some states and cities have adopted Indigenous Peoples' Day as an alternative to honor Native American history and culture. ## Traditional Activities of Columbus Day ### Parades and Festivals Columbus Day is marked by parades, particularly in cities with significant Italian-American populations. Notable examples include: **[New York City](https://whatsoproudlywehail.org/curriculum/the-american-calendar/the-origins-and-traditions-of-columbus-day#:~:text=By%201869%2C%20New%20York%20had%20taken%20to%20decorating%20ships%20in%20the%20harbor%20with%20Italian%20and%20American%20flags%2C%20in%20addition%20to%20hosting%20a%20carnival%20and%20parade.)**: Hosts one of the largest parades, attracting over a million spectators. **[San Francisco](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Day#:~:text=San%20Francisco%20claims,%5B34%5D)**: Claims the oldest continuous Columbus Day celebration, dating back to 1868. ### Ceremonies and Educational Programs [Public ceremonies](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Day#:~:text=inviting%20the%20people%20of%20the%20United%20States%20to%20observe%20Columbus%20Day%2C%20in%20schools%20and%20churches%2C%20or%20other%20suitable%20places%2C%20with%20appropriate%20ceremonies%20that%20express%20the%20public%20sentiment%20befitting%20the%20anniversary%20of%20the%20discovery%20of%20America.%22%5B9), including speeches and educational programs, are common. These often highlight the historical significance of Columbus's voyages and the contributions of Italian Americans to U.S. history. Schools and educational institutions may hold discussions or lessons about Columbus's impact and the broader historical context, including the experiences of Indigenous peoples. ### Community Service Some groups use the day as an opportunity for community service, reflecting on the complexities of history and the importance of cultural understanding. ## The History of Columbus Day ### Early Celebrations The first recorded celebration of Columbus Day in the United States took place on October 12, 1972, organized by the Society of St. Tammany in New York City to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Columbus's landing in the Americas. This event marked the beginning of a tradition that would grow over the years. In [1892](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Day#:~:text=For%20the%20400th,%5B17%5D), amid rising tensions following the lynching of Italian immigrants in New Orleans, President Benjamin Harrison proclaimed a national celebration for the 400th anniversary of Columbus's voyage. This proclamation aimed to honor Italian Americans and promote national unity during a time of social strife. ### Official Recognition Colorado became the first state to officially recognize Columbus Day as a holiday in 1907, and it was later declared a national holiday by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1937. The holiday was initially celebrated on October 12 but was moved to the second Monday in October 1971 as part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act.

Columbus Day - Next Year

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