Presidents Day Tidbits

Presidents Day Tidbits

Presidents Day falls on the third Monday of February.

Presidents Day was originally known as Washington’s birthday.  I remember celebrating Washington and Lincoln’s birthdays in school separately.

In 1971, the government decided to make one holiday honoring all the presidents  and that is how we arrived at Presidents Day.  Here are a few tidbits on some of the presidents:

George Washington - During his term he established the federal court system and a nation wide banking system. I’ll bet he never imagined it would be like it is today!

John Quincy Adams reduced the national debt from 16 million to 5 million, keep in mind this was in years 1825-1829

Andrew Jackson was the only president to serve in the War of 1812 and the Revolutionary War. He was also the only president of a DEBT FREE United States. Yes, you read that correctly.....debt free!!!

James Monroe - Known for the Monroe Doctrine which stated that the US would not tolerate further European intervention in the Americas. Wonder what he'd think of the economic side of it today! 

Thomas Jefferson's library of 6,000 books were purchased and the basis of the Library of Congress.

James Polk, I was surprised to read " Polk attempted to make a more orderly house. He never challenged anyone to a duel no matter how much they insulted his honor as was customary then " There wouldn't be anyone left standing if they had duels today.

John Tyler was president from 1841-1845. I find it amazing that he has TWO living grandchildren!

Hope everyone has a wonderful Presidents Day and that you enjoyed these tidbits!