February 19 – Presidents’ Day

Presidents’ Day is today.

It’s an important holiday that has been celebrated in the United States since 1885. The holiday was initially established to remember our first president, George Washington, but it has expanded to honor all of our nation’s presidents throughout history.

On this special day each year, we acknowledge their contributions and accomplishments as well as the principles these men have strived to uphold and protect during their time in office.

Presidents’ Day allows us to recognize the leaders who helped shape our country and reminds us of how far we have come over the years. Moreover, it is a chance for fellow Americans to reflect on the importance of civic responsibility and be proud of our unified nation.

HISTORY OF PRESIDENTS’ DAY

Presidents’ Day was first established in 1885 by President Grover Cleveland as an effort to combine two individual holidays honoring George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, two of the greatest presidents of the country in its early establishment. Through the years, it has become a national day to honor all chief executives of the US, no matter when they held office. It is celebrated on the third Monday in February around Washington’s birthday, which falls on Feb. 22.

TEN FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT INTERESTING PRESIDENTS ON PRESIDENTS’ DAY

Thomas Jefferson’s Love for Books: Thomas Jefferson, the third U.S. president, was an avid reader and had one of the most extensive personal libraries of his time, with over 6,000 books.
Teddy Roosevelt’s Teddy Bear Connection: The teddy bear was named after Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt. The story goes that Roosevelt refused to shoot a bear cub on a hunting trip, leading to the creation of the iconic toy.
George Washington’s Dentures: Contrary to popular belief, George Washington’s dentures were not made of wood. They were crafted from a combination of materials, including animal and human teeth, ivory, and metal.
John F. Kennedy’s Pulitzer Prize: Before becoming president, John F. Kennedy won a Pulitzer Prize for his book “Profiles in Courage,” highlighting acts of political courage by eight U.S. senators.
Abraham Lincoln’s Wrestling Skills: Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president, was an accomplished wrestler in his youth, earning a reputation as a formidable opponent in local matches.
James A. Garfield’s Multilingual Skills: James A. Garfield, the 20th president, was fluent in both Latin and Greek. He could simultaneously write in Latin with one hand and Greek with the other.
Andrew Jackson’s Parrot: Andrew Jackson had a pet parrot named Poll. The bird outlived Jackson and had to be removed from Jackson’s funeral because it was swearing.
Richard Nixon’s Bowling Alley: President Richard Nixon installed a one-lane bowling alley in the White House basement, allowing him to indulge in his passion for the sport.
Jimmy Carter’s Nobel Peace Prize: Jimmy Carter, the 39th president, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his efforts in promoting social and economic justice.
Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Stamp Collection: Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president, was an avid stamp collector, and his collection contained over 1.25 million stamps at the time of his death.

HOW TO CELEBRATE PRESIDENTS’ DAY

As we approach the third Monday in February, the nation prepares to honor the legacies of some of the most influential leaders in American history. Presidents’ Day stands as a collective tribute to the commanders-in-chief who have shaped the course of the United States. Originally established to celebrate George Washington’s birthday, this federal holiday now encompasses the contributions of all U.S. presidents. From the founding fathers to modern leaders, Presidents’ Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the presidential journey, the evolution of the nation, and the enduring principles that bind us together. Join the celebration as we commemorate the individuals who have guided the United States through its rich and dynamic history.