Who made Columbus Day a national holiday? This question often sparks debates and discussions among historians, educators, and citizens alike. The origin of Columbus Day as a national holiday in the United States is a topic that has been shrouded in mystery and controversy for many years. Understanding the history behind this holiday requires delving into the political and social context of the time when it was established. Let’s explore the factors that contributed to the creation of Columbus Day as a national holiday in the United States.
The first official Columbus Day celebration took place in 1792, marking the 300th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the Americas. However, it was not until 1937 that Columbus Day was declared a federal holiday in the United States. The movement to establish Columbus Day as a national holiday gained momentum during the early 20th century, primarily due to the efforts of Italian-American groups who sought to honor their heritage and the contributions of Christopher Columbus.
One of the key figures in the campaign to make Columbus Day a national holiday was the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal service organization founded by Italian-American priest Father Michael J. McGivney in 1882. The Knights of Columbus played a significant role in promoting the holiday and advocating for its recognition as a national observance. They lobbied the U.S. government to declare Columbus Day a federal holiday, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the achievements of Christopher Columbus in discovering the New World.
The push for a national Columbus Day also coincided with the growing Italian-American community in the United States, which sought to counteract negative stereotypes and promote a positive image of Italian heritage. The celebration of Columbus Day provided an opportunity for Italian-Americans to showcase their culture and contributions to the nation’s history.
In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a bill into law that declared Columbus Day a federal holiday. This decision was influenced by the political climate of the time, as the United States was experiencing a period of economic hardship and social unrest. By establishing Columbus Day as a national holiday, the government aimed to foster national unity and promote a sense of pride in American history.
However, the celebration of Columbus Day has been met with criticism and controversy over the years. Many indigenous groups and historians argue that the holiday commemorates the beginning of colonization and the suffering of Native Americans. They believe that celebrating Columbus’ arrival in the Americas ignores the tragic consequences that followed for indigenous peoples.
In response to these concerns, some states and cities have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day or Native American Heritage Day. This shift reflects a growing recognition of the importance of honoring the contributions and history of Native Americans.
In conclusion, the answer to the question “Who made Columbus Day a national holiday?” lies in the collective efforts of Italian-American groups, the Knights of Columbus, and the U.S. government during the early 20th century. While the holiday has been celebrated for decades, its legacy remains a subject of debate and reflection on the complex history of the United States and its indigenous peoples.
