Understanding President's Day History

The video explores the origins and evolution of Presidents Day in the United States. Initially celebrated as Washington's Birthday on February 22nd, it became a federal holiday in 1885. Despite common belief, the holiday is not officially Presidents Day but remains Washington's Birthday according to the U.S. government. In 1968, Congress moved the observance to the third Monday in February, creating a long weekend for government employees. Although Washington's and Lincoln's birthdays are close, Congress did not combine them into a single holiday. Today, many Americans celebrate it as Presidents Day, honoring all U.S. presidents, while government employees officially recognize it as Washington's Birthday.

What is a common misconception about President's Day?

• It honors all U.S. presidents.

• It is celebrated on the same day every year.

• It celebrates only George Washington.

• It is a holiday for government employees only.

When was Washington's Birthday established as a federal holiday?

• 1776

• 1885

• 1968

• 2000

What is the official name of the holiday according to the U.S. government?

• President's Day

• Federal Holiday

• Washington's Birthday

• Lincoln's Birthday

What significant change did Congress make to the holiday in 1968?

• They moved it to the third Monday in February.

• They combined it with Lincoln's Birthday.

• They renamed it to President's Day.

• They abolished the holiday.

What benefit did the 1968 change provide to government employees?

• An extra day of pay

• A three-day weekend

• A longer summer vacation

• A chance to vote

Why did Congress refuse to combine Washington's and Lincoln's birthdays?

• They planned to create a new holiday.

• They wanted to keep them separate.

• They believed it was unnecessary.

• They wanted to honor only Washington.

What do many Americans mistakenly believe about President's Day?

• It is a day to honor all presidents.

• It is not a federal holiday.

• It is celebrated in March.

• It is only for government workers.