Columbus Day is a U.S. holiday that commemorates the landing of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. 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 1937. For many, especially in the Italian-American community, the holiday is a celebration of their heritage and Columbus' impact on history.
Besides, Columbus Day became a source of pride for Italian immigrants and represents acknowledgment of their historical path in America. When the day was first marked as a federal holiday in 1937, it was a recognition by the U.S. government that Christopher Columbus, an Italian, was the first European to set foot in America, opening the door for the widespread immigration of Italians to the country.
However, the holiday is also a matter of controversy, especially among Native American groups and others who criticize Columbus and other European explorers for their treatment of indigenous peoples. In response to these concerns, some cities and states have changed the holiday’s name to Indigenous Peoples Day or Native American Day, celebrating the culture and contributions of the Native American populations who were displaced or decimated by European exploration and colonization.