Remembering George Washington: From Founder to Consumer Holiday
Every year, Americans pause to honor their first president, George Washington, who was born on February 22, 1732. Washington, much like the other Founding Fathers, was not keen on grand celebrations of his life. He viewed his role as the leader of a new republic distinctly separate from that of a king.
As we approach this year’s Presidents Day, it’s important to recognize how the meaning of this holiday has evolved. What began as a simple acknowledgment of Washington’s contributions has, for many, transformed into a day characterized by shopping sales and commercialism, rather than reflection on the values and leadership he represented.
Historian Alexis Coe, author of a biography on Washington, highlights a growing disconnect between his legacy and how the holiday is celebrated today. She notes that while figures like Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln are remembered through their distinct memorials, Washington’s presence feels more ambiguous, represented by a towering stone monument in the nation’s capital.
Originally, Washington himself paid little attention to his birthday. According to historical records, while in office, he often worked through his special day. Though there were some official recognitions during his presidency, especially when the French military officer Rochambeau planned a ball for Washington’s 50th birthday, significant celebrations were sparse.
After Washington’s death in 1799, a market for memorabilia began to emerge, showcasing a blend of patriotism and consumer culture. People began to buy items that honored him, indicating an early connection between making a profit and preserving his memory.
It wasn’t until 1832, marking the centennial of his birth, that Congress formally organized events to celebrate Washington’s legacy, eventually declaring his birthday a federal holiday in 1879. While the holiday is officially known as Washington’s Birthday, it has informally come to be recognized as Presidents Day, partly due to the proximity of Lincoln’s birthday.
By the late 1960s, the day had shifted to promote retail sales, driven by Congress’s decision to establish three-day weekends for federal holidays. This led to the creation of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which shifted the observance of Washington’s Birthday to the third Monday in February.
Today, Presidents Day is often overshadowed by consumerism. Historians note that the founding fathers, including Washington, would likely have been concerned about the commercialization of what was meant to be a day of reflection on leadership and service. Many argue that the once significant traditions surrounding the day have disappeared, leaving little more than a shopping spree in its place.
In a world where the political landscape often brings cynicism towards leadership, perhaps it’s time for Americans to re-evaluate how they celebrate Presidents Day. A moment of reflection on the values of honesty, sacrifice, and service can reaffirm the spirit of Washington’s legacy in guiding our republic.
