When did the first American holiday occur? Besides Christmas, Presidents’ Day, Labor Day, and Columbus’ Day, there are plenty of other days when people celebrate something. But which holiday was the first? Find out in this article! You’ll be amazed at the answer! Here are some examples:
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Christmas
The origin of Christmas comes from the Christian Saint Nicholas, who was born in southern Turkey around 280 AD. A wealthy family, he was known for his generous spirit. Legend has it that he saved three sisters from slavery by tossing them gold in an open window. The custom of giving gold to children has stuck ever since. Now, the first holiday celebrated on the first day of December is celebrated in many countries, including the United States.
Presidents’ Day
In 1796, a national holiday was created to honor President George Washington, whose birthday was February 22. Many Americans celebrated his birthday on February 22, while others observed it on February 11th. Although the day is now federally recognized, there was some controversy when the holiday was first created. The idea of creating a national holiday to honor the presidents was popular amongst many different industries. In fact, many businesses and industries wanted to create a super holiday to honor the first president, and thus created Presidents’ Day.
Labor Day
In the United States, Labor Day is a federal holiday celebrated on the first Monday of September. It honors the American labor movement and the contributions of laborers to the country. Today, many people are still confused as to what exactly this holiday is. There are two main theories on why laborers are celebrated on this day. One theory states that the holiday honors the contributions of laborers to the economy, while the other suggests that it was first celebrated as a day to honor laborers’ rights.
Columbus Day
Columbus Day is an official national holiday celebrated on the second Monday of October. The holiday commemorates Christopher Columbus’ landing on an island now called San Salvador in the Bahamas. Columbus thought he had found a new sea route to India. He named the people he encountered “Indians.” The first Columbus voyage was in 1492, and his expedition was the last one. Columbus’ first voyage to the Americas is controversial. While the Europeans were the first to sail the Atlantic, indigenous peoples had already discovered the Americas thousands of years before Columbus.
King’s Day
In honor of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the United States observes King’s Day on the third Monday of January. Although the civil rights leader was assassinated in April 1968, the holiday is still observed every year. The day was first recognized as a federal holiday in 1990 and became an official day in 1993. However, the day has been marred by controversy. Here’s a history of how it began.
Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States, celebrating the lives of service men and women. Originally, the holiday was celebrated on the last Monday in May, but from 1868 to 1970, it was held on May 30. The date has changed numerous times over the years. Today, it’s observed on the last Monday in May. Here’s why:
Independence Day
The United States celebrated the founding of its nation on July 4, 1776. The 13 colonies on the east coast of the United States fought Britain over unjust treatment. They wanted freedom from the oppression of England. These thirteen colonies signed a document called the Declaration of Independence, which officially declared the United States of America. Today, Americans celebrate this holiday by enjoying the sights and sounds of patriotic events across the country. Here are some interesting facts about Independence Day.
