Native American Day
When is Native American Day? This holiday is observed on the fourth Friday in September
Today is Native American Day. Originally, it was called American Indian Day. This September holiday day is exists to honor and celebrate Native Americans, the first Americans to live in the U.S. Still commonly referred to as American Indians, the term “Native Americans” has been used in recent years as a sign of respect and recognition that they were indeed the first indigenous people to populate our great and wonderful nation. However, it is important to note that they are not the only native society in North America. American Eskimos are also native Americans. And, Mayans are indigenous to the Americas, too. They are native to Central and South America.
By the time the first explorers and settlers arrived from Europe, Native Americans had populated the entire North American continent, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and from the Gulf of Mexico to the northern reaches of Alaska and Canada. Meanwhile, native Mayans populated Central and South America.
Native American Trivia and Fun Facts
Here are some interesting trivia and fun facts about Native Americans and indigenous populations in the Americas:
- In 1492 when Christopher Columbus arrived in America., he named the local population he met “Indians”. This was because at first he hoped and believed he landed in India.
- Today, the term “Indian” is considered offensive by Native Americans.
- The United States government recognizes 574 native tribes.
- The federal government recognizes 326 Indian reservations.
- In California, many of the reservations are called Rancherias.
- There are an estimated 100 native American Languages. This includes Native Alaskans.
- Estimates of the peak population of Native Americans range from 8 to 100 million people. Establishing a precise estimate is virtually impossible.
- The Navajo tribe located Southwestern United States is the largest. Their population is currently a little over 300,000.
- There are approximately 35,000 Eskimos in Alaska. They are primarily from the Inuit and Yupik tribes.
- The word “Squaw” was dropped from use. Indian groups consider it an ethnic and racial slur.
- Today, Native Americans consider the word “Indian” offensive. So, it has been dropped from common usage
How to Celebrate Native American Day
- Celebrate Native Americans.
- Learn more about their history and culture, including the American Eskimo and Mayans.
- Watch documentaries about their culture and societies.
- Share what you’ve learned with others.
Today's Quote
“Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” – – John Lennon
History and Origin of Native American Day
This special holiday dates back to 1939. California Governor Culbert Olsen dedicated this day as American Indian Day. The state of Nevada soon followed suit. As people learned the word “Indian” was derogatory, the name of this holiday was changed. The date to celebrate this holiday was also changed.
In 1968, then Governor Ronald Reagan made a resolution which was passed in the state Assembly declaring the fourth Friday in September as Native American Day. Nevada also made this an official holiday. Over the years, the popularity of this holiday grew and became popular across the country.
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Recipe of the Day: Maple Topped Pumpkin Pie
Also See: Pumpkin Recipes Galore and Holiday Recipes and Halloween Recipes
Pumpkin Nook – Visit the folks that know everything about pumpkins. Halloween, too.
Homemade Garden recipes – Make your own desserts today.
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Did You Know? In addition to Native American Day, there are literally thousands of daily holidays, special events, and observances, more than one for every day of the year. Many of these holidays are new. People and organizations are creating new holidays regularly. September holidays are no exception. Consequently, at Holiday Insights, we take great efforts to thoroughly research and document the details of each one, as completely and accurately as possible.