Columbus Day commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. This day is a subject of controversy as it also marks the beginning of the colonization of the Americas and the subsequent impact on Native American peoples. While some celebrate this day in honor of Columbus' achievements, others observe Indigenous Peoples' Day instead, recognizing the history and culture of indigenous people affected by European colonization.

Table of Contents

1. When is Columbus Day?
2. The History of Columbus Day?
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. Who was Christopher Columbus?

When is Columbus Day?

Columbus Day is observed on the second Monday of October each year in the United States. This scheduling places the holiday on a specific date within the month rather than on the traditional October 12th, the date of Columbus's landfall in the Americas in 1492. This adjustment aligns with the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which aimed to provide more three-day weekends for the nation's workers.

The following is the list of Columbus Day in the United States.

The History of Columbus Day?

The history of Columbus Day in the United States is a blend of celebration, controversy, and evolution over time. Columbus Day originated as a celebration of Italian-American heritage, marking the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492. The first known celebration in the United States took place on October 12, 1792, in New York City, commemorating the 300th anniversary of Columbus's landing.

Colorado was the first U.S. state to observe Columbus Day in 1907. In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed Columbus Day a national holiday with the celebration on October 12. In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which moved the celebration of Columbus Day to the second Monday in October. This change became effective in 1971, aligning it with the contemporary practice of creating long weekends.

The holiday has become increasingly controversial due to the historical impact of Columbus's voyages on the indigenous populations of the Americas. In response to this controversy, some states and cities have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day to honor the history and cultures of Native Americans.

Today, Columbus Day is a federal holiday, but its observance varies across the United States. Some states and cities celebrate it, while others have replaced it with Indigenous Peoples' Day or do not observe it at all.

What Do People Do on This Day?

On Columbus Day in the United States, activities and observances vary widely, reflecting the diverse perspectives and traditions of different communities. Here are five common ways to celebrate:

– Italian-American Heritage: In cities with large Italian-American communities, Columbus Day is often celebrated with parades and events that highlight Italian culture, heritage, and contributions to American society.

– Community Events: Local festivals, concerts, and gatherings are common, featuring Italian music, dance, food, and sometimes historical reenactments.

– Educational Events: Schools and educational institutions often use the day to teach about the Age of Exploration, including the voyages of Columbus and their impact on history.

– Indigenous Peoples' Day: In areas where Columbus Day has been replaced or supplemented by Indigenous Peoples' Day, there are events and activities focused on Native American culture and history.

– Family Time: For many people, the long weekend provides an opportunity for family gatherings or short vacations.

The way people observe Columbus Day in the United States often reflects their cultural background, personal beliefs, and the local community's stance on the holiday's significance.

Who was Christopher Columbus?

Christopher Columbus (1451–1506) was an Italian explorer and navigator who played an important role in world history by making four transatlantic voyages, under the auspices of the Spanish monarchs, that opened the way for the widespread European exploration and colonization of the Americas.

Columbus was born in the Republic of Genoa. He began his career as a mariner in the Mediterranean and later sailed to the Aegean Sea, and Northern Europe. Columbus proposed a voyage westward across the Atlantic Ocean in search of a direct sea route to Asia. After years of seeking sponsorship, King Ferdinand II and Queen Isabella I of Spain agreed to support his expedition.

– First Voyage (1492-1493): Columbus set sail with three ships and landed in the Bahamas. He also explored parts of Cuba, Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

– Second Voyage (1493-1496): On his second voyage, he explored more of the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico and Jamaica.

– Third Voyage (1498-1500): Columbus reached the South American mainland (Venezuela) and the Orinoco River.

– Fourth Voyage (1502-1504): He explored areas in Central America, looking for a strait to the Indian Ocean but encountered numerous hardships.

Columbus's voyages led to the widespread awareness of the Americas in Europe and the eventual European colonization of the New World. While Columbus is often credited with "discovering" the Americas, his arrival marked the beginning of centuries of European conquest and colonization, which had devastating effects on the native populations through disease, war, and exploitation.