History.com: Columbus Day

History.com: Columbus Day - "Columbus Day is a U.S. holiday that commemorates the landing of Christopher Columbus in the New World on October 12, 1492.
The History Channel provides information on the origins of Columbus Day, links to related topics: the Columbus controversy, Native American Cultures, Amerigo Vespucci, Leif Eriksson, - links to 11 videos, and more - 

It was unofficially celebrated in a number of cities and states as early as the 18th century but did not become a federal holiday until the 1937. For many, the holiday is a way of both honoring Columbus' achievements and celebrating Italian-American heritage.

Throughout its history, Columbus Day and the man who inspired it have generated controversy, and many alternatives to the holiday have appeared in recent years."

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