The meaning of President’s Day
In 1885, the United States federal government made President’s Day an official national holiday. Originally, the holiday was called “Washington’s Birthday” in recognition of our first President George Washington. Traditionally, the holiday is celebrated on February 22, which is George Washington’s birthday. In 1971, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holidays Act, which created a 3-day holiday weekend and changed the observance to be known as “President’s Day.” The legislation also officially combined the holiday to celebrate the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
George Washington served as a general in the Revolutionary War, became the first president of the United States, and is known as the father of our country. He is considered one of the most important figures in the history of the United States. His likeness can be seen on Mount Rushmore and on the dollar bill. In addition, it is known for the history of the cherry tree. The story tells how a young George Washington received an ax when he was 6 years old and cut the cherry tree from his father. When asked by his father about the tree, George replied, “I can’t lie … I cut the cherry tree.”
Abraham Lincoln is known as one of the greatest statesmen in American history. He held the country together during the civil war and is credited with saving the union. Lincoln delivered the Emancipation Proclamation, which began with the iconic phrase “Four twenty-seven years ago,” which freed all slaves in the rogue states during the civil war. President Lincoln is also known for one of the most famous speeches in American history, the Gettysburg Address. This speech was broadcast during the American Civil War at the dedication of the National Soldiers Cemetery in Pennsylvania. This speech reiterated the principles of human equality affirmed by the Declaration of Independence. Lincoln declared the Civil War as a fight for the preservation of the Union that would bring true equality to all citizens. Lincoln also redefined the Civil War as a fight not only for the Union, but also for the principle of human equality.
Washington and Lincoln remain the two most recognized leaders in American history, but Presidents’ Day is now popularly viewed as a day to honor the lives and accomplishments of all former United States presidents. Like Independence Day, President’s Day is traditionally viewed as a time of celebration and patriotic remembrance. This President’s Day remember the contributions, sacrifices and virtues bestowed on our great nation. Show your patriotism and celebrate America’s rich history.