Celebrate Columbus Day: The Discovery of a New World
Each year on the second Monday of October, the United States observes Columbus Day, a federal holiday commemorating Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas on October 12, 1492. This day marks the beginning of a new era in world history, symbolizing the encounter between Europe and the Americas and the sweeping changes that followed. Established as a federal holiday in 1937, Columbus Day is recognized not only in the U.S. but also in several countries around the globe.
The tradition of celebrating Columbus Day began with Italian immigrants who sought to honor Christopher Columbus, an Italian credited with bringing European awareness to the Americas. In 1892, President Benjamin Harrison proclaimed the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s voyage a national celebration, further embedding the holiday in American culture. Columbus was long celebrated as a daring explorer who opened new trade routes and connected continents. However, in recent decades, the holiday has sparked debate due to the well-documented suffering of indigenous peoples following European colonization. As a result, many states and cities now observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day, honoring the resilience and cultures of Native American communities.
The Life and Voyages of Christopher Columbus
Christopher Columbus was an Italian navigator and explorer, commissioned by the Spanish monarchy to find a westward sea route to Asia. In August 1492, he set sail with three ships—the Niña, Pinta, and Santa Maria—crossing the Atlantic Ocean. After more than two months at sea, Columbus landed on an island in the Bahamas, which he claimed for Spain and named San Salvador.
Over four voyages, Columbus explored numerous Caribbean islands as well as parts of Central and South America. Mistakenly believing he had reached Asia, he continued searching for a direct route, which ultimately eluded him. Despite this misconception, Columbus’s expeditions launched a new era of exploration and colonization, profoundly impacting global trade, economies, and geopolitics, and shaping the modern world.
How Columbus Day is Celebrated
Columbus Day is marked by a variety of celebrations across the United States. Many cities and towns host parades featuring reenactments of Columbus’s landing and the first encounters between Europeans and Native Americans. Schools and educators use the holiday as an opportunity to teach students about the voyages of
