Columbus Day: Quick Facts

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

Oct. 18, 2026

Photos and Videos

Oil painting portrait of Christopher Columbus by Ridolfo del Ghirlandaio, showing Columbus with short gray hair, a black cap, and dark clothing against a plain background.

Examine the history—and controversy—behind Columbus Day

A person wearing a blue plaid shirt and a navy garment with colorful embroidery has a red armband reading Indigenous Peoples Day.

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Topics

Columbus Day and Its Discontents Columbus Day United States Columbus Day October holiday Independence Day Thanksgiving Day Juneteenth Labor Day Father’s Day Memorial Day Indigenous Peoples’ Day Women’s Equality Day Veterans Day St. Patrick’s Day

Key People

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Peter Rodino

American politician