Columbus Day

Columbus Day History

Columbus Day is intended to celebrate the arrival of Christopher Columbus to the Americas on October 12, 1492. The holiday pays homage to Columbus's voyages and his contributions to the western world. It also serves as an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the cultural heritage of Italian-Americans, as Columbus was an Italian explorer.

As a consequence of Columbus's journey, numerous subsequent explorations were conducted, eventually leading to the establishment of European colonies in India. These interactions and exchanges between Europe and India had long-lasting effects, shaping the course of Indian history through the fusion of cultures, development of trade, and spread of the English language.

The observance of Columbus Day in India is limited, with no large-scale events or public holidays specifically dedicated to the occasion. However, the impact of Columbus's voyage remains evident, particularly in academic institutions where the history of world exploration and European colonization is studied and discussed. Though Columbus Day is not an official holiday in India, it serves as a reminder of the influences exerted on the Indian subcontinent as a result of this monumental exploration in world history. Columbus Day is typically observed on the second Monday of October.

Columbus Day facts

• Christopher Columbus' first settlement on Hispaniola Island was called Villa de Navidad (Christmas Town)
• In 1971, the official holiday was moved to the second Monday in October in order to give workers in the US a long weekend. This was part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act.

In the News and Trending in India for Columbus Day

Top things to do in India for Columbus Day

• Eat some good Italian food.
• Watch a parade.
• As Columbus Day is a public holiday in some countries, people may take advantage of the long weekend to plan vacations or visit tourist destinations within India or abroad.
• Scholars, historians, or interested individuals may hold discussions, lectures, or seminars to explore the historical context of Columbus and the Age of Discovery.