Why Celebrate Lincoln's Birthday in November

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was born on February 12, 1809. However, his birthday is celebrated on a different date - the third Monday of November. This begs the question: why is Lincoln's birthday celebrated in November instead of February?

To understand this, we need to delve into the history of Lincoln's Birthday and the evolution of federal holidays in the United States.

Lincoln's Birthday: A Brief History

Lincoln's Birthday was first observed in 1874, just 11 years after his assassination. It was initiated by a school teacher in Buffalo, New York, who wanted to instill in her students a sense of patriotism and appreciation for Lincoln's leadership during the American Civil War.

The celebration gained traction over the years, with many states declaring it an official holiday. However, the date varied, with some states observing it on February 12, Lincoln's actual birthdate, while others chose February 22, the date of his birth according to the Julian calendar, which was used in England at the time of Lincoln's birth.

The Creation of Presidents' Day

In the late 1960s, the U.S. Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which aimed to create more three-day weekends for federal employees. This led to the creation of Presidents' Day, which was to be observed on the third Monday of February.

Initially, the new holiday was intended to honor George Washington, the first U.S. President, whose birthday is on February 22. However, the date's proximity to Lincoln's birthday led to the holiday becoming a celebration of both presidents.

Why the Third Monday of November?

While Lincoln's Birthday is not officially celebrated on the third Monday of November, the date is significant in Lincoln's life and legacy. It marks the anniversary of his delivery of the Gettysburg Address on November 19, 1863, one of the most famous speeches in American history.

Moreover, the third Monday of November is also close to Thanksgiving, another federal holiday. This proximity allows for a longer holiday weekend, which is beneficial for federal employees and the economy.

Lincoln's Legacy and the Importance of His Birthday

Lincoln's Birthday, whether celebrated in February or November, serves as a reminder of his significant contributions to the United States. He led the country through its most divisive period, the American Civil War, and abolished slavery through the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation.

His birthday also serves as an opportunity to teach future generations about his leadership, his commitment to preserving the Union, and his belief in the equality of all men. It is a time to reflect on the values that Lincoln stood for and to consider how we can apply them to our own lives and society today.

So, while Lincoln's Birthday is not celebrated on his actual birthdate, the third Monday of November serves as a fitting tribute to his legacy and a reminder of the values he stood for. It is a testament to the enduring impact of his leadership and the importance of his contributions to the United States.