Today is Washington's Birthday. While the actual anniversary of George Washington's birth is February 22nd, today, February 17th, 2025, is the federally recognized holiday honoring him.
It's important to start by getting the name right. This is not "Presidents' Day." There's no such federal holiday. The official designation, as found in section 6103(a) of title 5 of the United States Code, is "Washington's Birthday." While some businesses and states may use other names, it's crucial to acknowledge the correct terminology.
Why does this matter? Because calling it "Presidents' Day" dilutes the significance of the holiday and the man it honors. George Washington's contributions extend far beyond his presidency. He was the indispensable leader of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, a conflict that secured the independence of the United States. His courage, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to liberty were essential to the birth of our nation.
Washington wasn't just a military hero; he was a unifying figure. He presided over the Constitutional Convention, playing a key role in shaping the framework of our government. He then served as the first president under that Constitution, setting precedents for the office that continue to influence how our leaders function today.
It's true that Washington was a complex figure, a man of his time who, like many others, held views and engaged in practices that we now recognize as deeply flawed. He was a slave owner, but acknowledging these flaws doesn't diminish his monumental contributions to the founding of the United States. Instead, it allows us to have a more complete and honest understanding of his legacy. We can learn from both his triumphs and his failings.
Celebrating Washington's Birthday isn't about blind adoration. It's about recognizing the pivotal role he played in creating the nation we live in today. It's about reflecting on the principles of liberty, self-governance, and civic duty that he championed. These principles are just as relevant today as they were in the 18th century.
This Washington's Birthday, let's move beyond the casual misnaming of the holiday. Let's take a moment to learn more about George Washington, his accomplishments, and the complexities of his character. Let's remember that the freedoms we enjoy today are in no small part due to his leadership and vision. And let's recommit ourselves to the ideals he helped establish.
My Streaming Life includes watching documentaries about American history, including around holidays like Washington's Birthday. It helps me understand the context of our current world.
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