What president made Columbus Day a national holiday? This question often sparks curiosity and debate among history enthusiasts. Columbus Day, celebrated on the second Monday of October, commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. However, the answer to this question is not as straightforward as one might think.

The origin of Columbus Day dates back to the late 19th century when it was first proposed as a way to honor the Italian explorer. In 1892, the first official Columbus Day celebration took place in San Francisco, California. However, it wasn’t until much later that it became a national holiday in the United States.

The president who made Columbus Day a national holiday was Franklin D. Roosevelt. In 1937, President Roosevelt signed a proclamation declaring Columbus Day a federal holiday. This decision was motivated by the desire to boost tourism and the economy, as well as to recognize the contributions of Italian Americans to the country.

Prior to Roosevelt’s proclamation, Columbus Day was celebrated in various states and cities across the nation. The idea of making it a national holiday gained traction during the Great Depression, as a way to boost the economy and promote tourism. By making it a federal holiday, President Roosevelt aimed to encourage Americans to travel and spend money, thereby刺激经济活动。

Despite President Roosevelt’s efforts, the recognition of Columbus Day as a national holiday was not without controversy. Some critics argue that Columbus’s arrival in the Americas led to the oppression and exploitation of indigenous peoples. As a result, there have been calls to rename the holiday, with some states and cities opting for alternatives such as Indigenous Peoples’ Day or Native American Day.

In conclusion, Franklin D. Roosevelt was the president who made Columbus Day a national holiday in the United States. While his decision had economic and patriotic motivations, it also sparked a long-standing debate about the legacy of Christopher Columbus and the impact of his voyage on the indigenous populations of the Americas.