Columbus Day

On October 12, 1492, Italian navigator Christopher Columbus landed in the New World. Although most other nations of the Americas observe this holiday on October 12, in the United States it takes place on the second Monday in October.

This U.S. holiday honors the European discovery of America. The last several years has brought a wave of multicultural awareness which has spun dissent about this holiday. The controversy came to a head in 1992, the 500th anniversary of the "discovery or conquest" of America depending on individual perspective.

The discovery of America happened before dawn, on October 12, 1492, when the lookout of the "Pinta" shouted "Tierra! Tierra!" This happy news came when the dauntless explorer was almost ready to give in to his men's demands that he turn back and give up the expedition.

Today, Columbus Day is a holiday in the United States, and in many parts of the world including Central and South American countries. In Italy and Spain, Columbus is especially honored.