When did Columbus Day become a national holiday? The answer to this question is a significant part of American history. Columbus Day, celebrated on the second Monday of October, commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. However, the journey to its recognition as a national holiday was not a straightforward one. Let’s delve into the history behind this event.
The idea of establishing Columbus Day as a national holiday originated in the late 19th century. Italian-Americans, who were often marginalized and faced discrimination, sought to honor their heritage and the contributions of their countryman, Christopher Columbus. In 1866, the first Columbus Day celebration took place in New York City, marking the 300th anniversary of Columbus’ arrival. This event was largely organized by Italian-American groups and was not widely recognized outside of New York.
It wasn’t until 1892 that Columbus Day was first celebrated as a state holiday in Colorado. This was followed by other states, such as New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, adopting the holiday in the early 20th century. The movement gained momentum as Italian-Americans continued to advocate for the recognition of their heritage.
The push for a national Columbus Day holiday began in the 1930s. President Franklin D. Roosevelt played a pivotal role in this effort. In 1934, he signed a proclamation declaring October 12, the anniversary of Columbus’ arrival, as a national holiday. However, it was not until 1937 that Columbus Day was officially recognized as a federal holiday, celebrated on the second Monday of October.
The recognition of Columbus Day as a national holiday was not without controversy. Critics argue that the holiday glorifies the explorer’s legacy of colonization and the often tragic consequences faced by indigenous peoples. Native American groups and other activists have called for the holiday to be renamed or replaced, emphasizing the need to recognize the history and struggles of indigenous peoples.
In recent years, some states and cities have begun to reconsider the celebration of Columbus Day. They have either renamed the holiday or replaced it with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which honors the contributions and histories of Native Americans. This shift reflects a growing awareness of the complex and often negative impact of European colonization on indigenous communities.
In conclusion, Columbus Day became a national holiday in 1937, following years of advocacy by Italian-Americans and the support of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. While the holiday remains a point of contention, it serves as a reminder of the complex history of European colonization and the ongoing struggle for indigenous rights.
