Why Presidents’ Day Isn’t Just Another Long Weekend: Powerful Legacies of Two Presidents

Presidents’ Day isn’t just another long weekend—it’s a powerful reminder of the leadership that changed the course of the United States. Originally created in 1879 to honor George Washington’s birthday, the holiday has evolved into a broader celebration of all U.S. presidents. While it’s most often associated with Washington and Abraham Lincoln, the legacies of these leaders, alongside Jimmy Carter’s remarkable century of life, continue to define the essence of the day.

What makes Washington, Lincoln, (and even Jimmy Carter ) stand out, and why are their contributions still felt today? Their leadership in times of crisis, their visionary decisions, and their dedication to justice and unity continue to shape the nation in ways that endure.

George Washington: The Architect of American Governance

While Washington’s contributions to the formation of the United States are well-known, it’s his leadership as the nation’s first president that truly cemented his legacy. As the commander-in-chief during the Revolutionary War, Washington led the American colonies to victory against the British. But his most lasting contributions came after the war when he was elected the first president of the United States in 1789.

George Washington Presidency: April 30, 1789 inaugurated as the 1st president of the United States, and he was elected unanimously in 1788–1789 and 1792,

Washington didn’t just govern; he created the foundation for the U.S. government. His presidency set vital precedents that continue to define the office today. From establishing the first Cabinet to reinforcing the principle of separation of powers, Washington’s leadership ensured that the executive branch would be a strong yet balanced force within the government. Perhaps his most profound decision was his voluntary relinquishment of power after two terms, setting a precedent for peaceful transitions of power that persists today.

Washington’s commitment to neutrality in foreign policy and his careful handling of internal conflicts ensured that the young nation could find its footing in a volatile world. He understood the importance of unity and carefully balanced competing interests, crafting a vision for a country that would stand on principles of democracy, justice, and liberty.

Although Washington did not have any biological children of his own, his legacy extends through his marriage to Martha Custis, a widow with two children from her previous marriage. Washington adopted Martha’s children, and their descendants have become an extensive network of relatives across America. Today, estimates suggest that Washington has well over 40,000 descendants living today, many of whom carry on the Washington name and contribute to various walks of life, including law, business, and government.

President George Washington approved a measure in 1794 to add two stars and two stripes to the American flag, following the admission of Vermont and Kentucky to the Union. (The number of stripes was later reduced to the original 13.)  The First Official United States Flag: This 13-Star Flag became the Official United States Flag on June14th, 1777 and is the result of the congressional action that took place on that date. Much evidence exists pointing to Congressman Francis Hopkinson as the person responsible for its design.The only President to serve under this flag was George Washington (1789-1797). This Flag was to last for a period of 18 years.

Each star and stripe represented a Colony of which there were thirteen, united nearly one year earlier by the Declaration of Independence. The thirteen Colonies are listed below with the date that each ratified the Constitution and became a State.

• (1st) Delaware December 7th, 1787
• (2nd) Pennsylvania December 12th,1787
• (3rd) New Jersey December18th, 1787
• (4th) Georgia January 2nd, 1788
• (5th) Connecticut January 9th, 1788
• (6th) Massachusetts February 6th, 1788
• (7th) Maryland April 28th, 1788
• (8th) South Carolina May 23rd, 1788
• (9th) New Hampshire June 21st, 1788
• (10th) Virginia June 25th, 1788
• (11th) New York July 25th, 1788
• (12th) North Carolina November 21st, 1789
• (13th) Rhode Island May 29th, 1790

Note: The official name for the holiday is “Washington’s Birthday”

Abraham Lincoln: The Leader Who Kept America Together

When Abraham Lincoln assumed the presidency in 1861, the country was on the brink of division. The Civil War was in full force, and the future of the Union was uncertain. But Lincoln’s leadership during this crisis not only preserved the nation—it transformed it. His decision to issue the Emancipation Proclamation and his tireless advocacy for the Thirteenth Amendment did more than just free millions of people—it marked the beginning of a shift toward a more just and equal society.

Abraham Lincoln: March 4, 1861 inaugurated as the 16th president of the United States, and he was assassinated April 15, 1865.

Lincoln didn’t just fight for the Union’s survival; he set the course for a nation where freedom and equality could flourish. His ability to balance compassion with decisive action, especially in the face of overwhelming opposition, still serves as a model for leadership today. The impact of his presidency ripples through the country, as his vision for a united, fair America continues to inspire.

Interestingly, Lincoln’s family tree extends with quite a number of descendants. While Lincoln had only four children—two of whom lived into adulthood—his extended family has seen a significant number of progeny over the years. Today, the Lincoln family’s descendants are estimated to number in the hundreds, with many relatives living across the United States, contributing to diverse fields, including academia, politics, and business.

One striking element of Lincoln’s life is that he died without a will. At the time of his assassination in 1865, the 16th President of the United States had not planned for the distribution of his estate. This oversight, though personal in nature, highlighted his focus on the monumental task at hand—the preservation of the Union—rather than the details of his own legacy. Despite this, Lincoln’s impact on America is still keenly felt today. His vision for a united, just nation continues to inspire leaders and citizens alike.

The 34-Star Flag: This Flag became the Official United States Flag on July 4th, 1861. A star was added for the admission of Kansas (January 29th, 1861) and was to last for 2 years. The only President to serve under this flag was Abraham Lincoln (1861-1865).

The 35-Star Flag: This Flag became the Official United States Flag on July 4th, 1863. A star was added for the admission of West Virginia (June 20th, 1863) and was to last for 2 years. The two Presidents to serve under this flag were Abraham Lincoln (1861-1865) and Andrew Johnson (1865-1869).

Jimmy Carter: A Century of Service, Humanitarianism, and Legacy

While  has nothing to do with the holiday, in 2024, he reached an extraordinary milestone—Careter turned 100 years old. Few can boast such a remarkable life, and fewer still have left such an indelible mark on the world. Carter’s presidency, while dealing with international tensions and domestic challenges, became known for a commitment to human rights and peaceful diplomacy. His most notable achievement, the Camp David Accords, brokered peace between Egypt and Israel, shaping the future of the Middle East.

But Carter’s impact goes far beyond his time in office. His work after the presidency, with the Carter Center, has been dedicated to fighting disease, advancing human rights, and fostering democratic processes worldwide. Carter’s unique post-presidential career has redefined what it means to be a former president, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to improving global health, housing, and election integrity.

Carter’s family, like the other two presidents, has a rich legacy of its own. Though Carter has just four children, his extended family plays a vital role in his humanitarian efforts, continuing his work through organizations like Habitat for Humanity and global health initiatives. His legacy, fueled by decades of dedicated service, lives on through the thousands of lives touched by his efforts, and his centennial year added another dimension to his profound influence.  See more in separate post on Jimmy Carter

Why We Still Celebrate Presidents’ Day: More Than Just a Day Off

Presidents’ Day may seem like a simple holiday, but it holds much deeper significance. It is a day to reflect on the legacies of Washington, Lincoln, and Carter—three presidents whose leadership not only helped define the direction of the United States but also left an indelible mark on its identity. These men didn’t just govern; they made decisions that resonated far beyond their time in office and still affect the country today.  For more details on the history of the holiday, see this post.

Washington’s work in laying the foundations for American governance, Lincoln’s leadership during the nation’s most trying moment, and Carter’s relentless dedication to humanitarian causes all exemplify the values of courage, vision, and a commitment to the greater good. Their legacies remind us that leadership isn’t about just wielding power—it’s about guiding a nation with integrity, making decisions that ensure justice, and leaving behind a legacy that influences generations to come.

As we celebrate Presidents’ Day, it’s a moment to reflect on the qualities of leadership that Washington, Lincoln, and Carter embodied: resilience, humility, and an unwavering commitment to a fair and united nation. Presidents’ Day is not just about honoring these three great men but also recognizing how their decisions have influenced the nation across centuries. Their legacies continue to guide us as we navigate the challenges of the present and future.

From Washington’s establishment of a government that balances power to Lincoln’s fight for equality, and Carter’s continued service even after his presidency, these presidents gave their lives to an idea far larger than themselves. As we move forward, we are reminded that the best kind of leadership doesn’t just solve problems in the moment—it shapes the course of history.

Presidents’ Day: Leadership and Values Through Changing Times

Presidents’ Day serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacies of U.S. presidents who have shaped the nation’s history. This year, as we honor George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, it’s pertinent to examine how their leadership philosophies might interpret current U.S. foreign policy, particularly in relations with neighboring countries Canada and Mexico.

Contemporary U.S. Relations and Foreign Policy Toward Canada and Mexico

In early 2025, President Donald Trump implemented significant tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, imposing a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican goods, and a 10% tariff on Chinese imports. This move has led to retaliatory measures from both Canada and Mexico, escalating tensions and potentially disrupting established trade agreements.

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George Washington’s Perspective

As the first President of the United States, George Washington emphasized the importance of neutrality and avoiding entanglements in foreign conflicts. In his Farewell Address, he advised the nation to “steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world.” Washington might view the imposition of tariffs on neighboring countries as a deviation from his vision of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among nations.

Abraham Lincoln’s Perspective

Abraham Lincoln, who led the nation through its Civil War, understood the complexities of international relations, especially concerning neighboring countries. While his presidency was primarily focused on internal affairs, Lincoln’s commitment to preserving the Union and promoting national unity suggests he would advocate for diplomatic solutions over economic sanctions that could harm relationships with neighboring nations.

Jimmy Carter’s Perspective

Jimmy Carter, known for his emphasis on human rights and diplomacy, might view the current trade policies with concern. Throughout his presidency, Carter prioritized peaceful negotiations and international cooperation. He might advocate for dialogue and collaboration with Canada and Mexico to address mutual concerns, rather than unilateral economic measures that could strain relations.

U.S.-Canada-Mexico

As we reflect on the legacies of Washington, Lincoln, and Carter this Presidents’ Day, it’s evident that their leadership philosophies centered on diplomacy, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. In contrast, the current approach to U.S. relations with Canada and Mexico, characterized by the imposition of tariffs and retaliatory measures, diverges from these principles. This juxtaposition invites contemplation on the evolution of U.S. foreign policy and the enduring relevance of the values upheld by past presidents.

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