More Than Just a Sale: The Fascinating Evolution of Presidents’ Day
In modern America, Presidents’ Day is often associated with two things: a day off from work and incredibly aggressive sales on furniture and cars. But beneath the commercial veneer lies a complex and surprisingly controversial history. Why do we celebrate on a Monday? Why is it in February? And whose birthday are we actually celebrating?
To understand Presidents’ Day, we have to look back at the 18th century and then jump forward to a major legislative shift in the 1970s.
- The Original: Washington’s Birthday
For most of American history, the holiday was simply Washington’s Birthday, celebrated on February 22nd (his actual birthday). It was the first federal holiday to honor a specific individual, established by Congress in 1879. Washington was the “Indispensable Man,” and his birthday was a somber, patriotic occasion for more than a century.
- The Great Shift: The Uniform Monday Holiday Act
Everything changed in 1968 (and took effect in 1971) with the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. This was a piece of legislation pushed by labor unions and the travel industry. The goal was simple: move several federal holidays to Mondays to create consistent three-day weekends.
The theory was that three-day weekends would reduce employee absenteeism (the “Tuesday slump”) and boost the economy by encouraging travel and shopping. Washington’s Birthday was moved from February 22nd to the third Monday in February.
- The Lincoln “Snub”
The move was controversial because it meant the holiday would never actually land on Washington’s real birthday. Furthermore, many states wanted to include Abraham Lincoln (born February 12th) in the celebration.
While the federal government still officially calls the holiday “Washington’s Birthday,” the popular culture and many state governments began using the term “Presidents’ Day” to honor both Washington and Lincoln—and eventually, all who have served in the office.
- February Presidential Trivia
February is a particularly “presidential” month. Beyond the big two, several other facts make this holiday unique:
- The Shared Month: Four U.S. Presidents were born in February: George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, William Henry Harrison, and Ronald Reagan.
- The “Other” Birthday: William Henry Harrison (born Feb 9, 1773) has the dubious distinction of the shortest presidency—only 31 days—but he is still technically part of the February club!
- The No-State Holiday: Because it is a federal holiday, “Presidents’ Day” is celebrated nationally, but the specific name of the holiday varies by state. In Alabama, it is “Washington and Jefferson Day,” even though Thomas Jefferson was born in April!
This Presidents’ Day, as you enjoy your day off or shop the sales, take a moment to appreciate the history. It is a holiday born of a desire to honor the past, but shaped by the modern need for rest and economic vitality. Whether you call it Washington’s Birthday or Presidents’ Day, it remains a vital mid-winter pause to reflect on the leaders who shaped the nation.