Want to generate your own paper instantly?
Create papers like this using AI — craft essays, case studies, and more in seconds!
Should We Celebrate Columbus Day?
1. Introduction
1.1 Hook: Engaging question or statement about Columbus Day
Every October, parades wind through streets in red, white, and blue, yet many young students wonder: why do we celebrate Columbus Day, and what story are we telling America’s youth?
1.2 Background: Brief history of Columbus Day and its celebration
Originally championed in the late 19th century by Italian-American communities to honor Christopher Columbus’s 1492 voyage, Columbus Day became an official federal holiday in 1937, signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
1.3 Thesis Statement: Argument on whether we should celebrate Columbus Day
While Columbus Day celebrates exploration and immigrant heritage, it also overlooks the devastating impact of colonization on Indigenous peoples, so replacing it with Indigenous Peoples’ Day offers a more inclusive and truthful commemoration. In recent years, debates over this holiday have grown, with schools and local governments questioning its place on the calendar.
Note: This section includes information based on general knowledge, as specific supporting data was not available.
2. Body Paragraph 1: Arguments for Celebrating Columbus Day
2.1 Topic Sentence: Highlight tradition and historical significance
For many Americans, Columbus Day represents a connection to a shared past, celebrating the courage and ambition that shaped early exploration of the Americas and honors the achievements of immigrant families.
2.2 Evidence: Examples of patriotic events and community celebrations
Major cities such as New York host vibrant parades that attract thousands of spectators, while Chicago and Philadelphia hold cultural festivals where Italian-American societies present traditional foods, dances, and historical reenactments.
2.3 Explanation: Why tradition matters to many people
These activities promote civic pride and intergenerational learning, allowing communities to pass down cultural values and create festive memories that reinforce unity around a common national story. Such celebrations also provide an economic boost as families dine at local restaurants and visit historical sites, supporting small businesses and local tourism.
Note: This section includes information based on general knowledge, as specific supporting data was not available.
3. Body Paragraph 2: Arguments Against Celebrating Columbus Day
3.1 Topic Sentence: Acknowledge negative impacts on Indigenous peoples
However, Columbus’s voyages also marked the start of violent colonization that caused trauma and displacement for Indigenous peoples throughout North and South America.
3.2 Evidence: Historical facts about colonization and its effects
Within decades of European contact, native communities faced forced labor in encomienda systems, suffered mass death from diseases like smallpox, and lost ancestral lands to settlers.
3.3 Explanation: Why these harms make the holiday problematic
Honoring Columbus without reflecting on these tragedies can pain descendants of Indigenous nations and perpetuate a one-sided narrative that overlooks their resilience and contributions. In some cities, Indigenous leaders have called for the removal of Columbus statues as a step toward acknowledging past wrongs.
Note: This section includes information based on general knowledge, as specific supporting data was not available.
4. Body Paragraph 3: Alternative Solutions
4.1 Topic Sentence: Propose replacing Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Many scholars and community leaders propose replacing Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day to shift focus from colonization to the rich heritage of native communities.
4.2 Evidence: Examples of places that have made the switch
South Dakota became the first state to adopt Indigenous Peoples’ Day in 1990, and other places such as Seattle, Minneapolis, and Albuquerque have followed, organizing museum exhibits, powwows, and educational workshops.
4.3 Explanation: Benefits of a more inclusive holiday
This new holiday fosters mutual respect by acknowledging historical injustices, celebrating tribal sovereignty, and encouraging people of all backgrounds to learn from Indigenous wisdom and traditions. This recognition can also strengthen relationships between tribal nations and local governments by opening dialogue and cooperation on cultural events.
Note: This section includes information based on general knowledge, as specific supporting data was not available.
5. Conclusion
5.1 Restate Thesis: Summarize main argument about celebrating Columbus Day
In summary, while Columbus Day remains an important tradition for some and highlights themes of discovery, it overlooks the destruction and displacement experienced by Indigenous peoples following European arrival.
5.2 Recap Key Points: Brief review of pros, cons, and alternatives
This essay examined how parades and cultural events foster unity, why celebrating Columbus can perpetuate harm to native communities, and how Indigenous Peoples’ Day offers a thoughtful and educational alternative.
5.3 Closing Thought: Call to action or final reflection on respectful celebration
Moving forward, communities, schools, and policymakers should consider recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day to honor diverse histories, encourage healing, and build respect for all cultures that shape our nation.
Note: This section includes information based on general knowledge, as specific supporting data was not available.
References
No external sources were cited in this paper.