Columbus Day has not always been known as the National Holiday of Spain. Until 1931 this day was called “Race Day”, both in Spain and in some places in America. This name was modified at the express request of the former Spanish ambassador to Argentina, Ramiro de Maeztu, who denounced in the magazine Acción Española that it was an incorrect title and should be renamed “Hispanic Day.” Another curious fact is that the consolidation of this festival took place under the Franco regime, when it began to be celebrated officially and was established as a holiday throughout the country.
The day, as we know it today, was imposed in 1982. After the democratic restoration and with the creation of the 1978 Constitution, the first Official State Gazette was published. The most recent modification of the name of this holiday appears in Law 18/1987, where it is stated that every October 12 the National Holiday Day of Spain will be celebrated, completely dispensing with the word “Hispanidad”.
Today’s Hispanic Day
This holiday was regulated in 1987 by Law 18/1987 and, according to the celebration of October 12, “its purpose is to solemnly remember the different moments of collective history that are part of the common historical, cultural and social heritage,” as well as the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus on October 12, 1492.
Among the best-known activities of this day is the air and land military parade along the Paseo de la Castellana in Madrid, which is attended by the king, members of the royal family, the president of the Government and other senior officials of the State. , and with the subsequent reception to the authorities and different members of society.
What is the origin of the celebration of October 12?
The expedition led by Admiral Christopher Columbus and commissioned by the Catholic Monarchs in the year 1492 is the origin of this anniversary, which resulted in the discovery of America in Europe. This anniversary became a day that celebrates the beginning of the relationship between Europe and America. A historical moment that changed the perspective we had of the world.
Is October 12 also a holiday in other Spanish-speaking countries?
The celebration of October 12 is also commemorated in other Spanish-speaking countries. For example, in Argentina the Day of American Cultural Diversity is celebrated, in Uruguay the Day of the Americas or in Chile the Day of the Discovery of Two Worlds. These celebrations revolve around the valorization of indigenous peoples and the brotherhood and union between Spanish-speaking countries.
