While most people know today as President's Day, the official name of the holiday is actually Washington's Birthday.
However, George Washington's birthday is actually February 22. Washington’s Birthday officially honors the life and work of the first president of the United States. The celebration of his birthday began during the last year of his presidency in 1796. February 22 became a time to honor Washington, though informally, until 1880 when it was made the first federal holiday to honor a person.
It was also during this time that Congress discussed the idea of honoring Abraham Lincoln’s February 17th birthday. Thus, while most states have adopted Washington’s Birthday, some states officially celebrate Presidents’ Day.
So, why the shift of days? Fast-forward to 1968 and President Lyndon B. Johnson. Johnson’s Uniform Monday Holiday Act shifted Memorial Day and Washington’s Birthday to Mondays in order to extend weekends, thus the celebration of Washington would revert to the third Monday in February, each year.
Why Combine the Birthdays? Many people argue that Washington's and Lincoln's birthdays should not be combined because it diminishes the individual significance of both George Washington & Abraham Lincoln. By essentially merging their birthday celebrations creates a sense of generalized "Presidents Day"
Why is George Washington significant? - Washington is considered one of the most significant figures in American history because he led the Continental Army to victory in the Revolutionary War, served as the first President of the United States, and played a crucial role in drafting the U.S. Constitution, setting numerous precedents for future presidents through his leadership and actions during his time in office; essentially laying the foundation for the American government as we know it today.
Why Is Abraham Lincoln significant? - Lincoln led the country through the Civil War, preserving the Union and working to end slavery. His Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 paved the way for the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery nationwide. Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address redefined the war’s purpose, emphasizing liberty, equality, and democracy. His leadership and strategic decisions helped secure the Union’s victory. His legacy as a symbol of unity, justice, and perseverance continues to shape the nation.
Honoring the leaders who shaped our nation—Happy Presidents Day!
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