Georgia Day

Georgia Day on February 12 each year honors the establishment of the colony by James Oglethorpe. Although not a public holiday, it was created by Georgia’s General Assembly to commemorate “the anniversary of the landing of the first colonists in Georgia under Oglethorpe.” The day is often celebrated in Georgia’s public schools. While the law establishing Georgia Day was not repealed, it was omitted during the 1981 official code compilation, leaving its legal status unclear. Nonetheless, it continues to be observed around February 12, particularly at the Georgia Day Parade organized by the Georgia Historical Society as part of the Georgia History Festival, a two-week celebration of the state’s history.

History of Georgia Day

Georgia’s history stretches back to the pre-Columbian era. Initially, Native American tribes occupied the region for thousands of years. Spanish presence in the late 16th century focused on Catholic missions, but by the 18th century, most had left. English settlers arrived in the 1730s, led by James Oglethorpe. By April 8, 1776, royal officials were ousted, and Georgia’s Provincial Congress issued a temporary constitutional document until the 1777 state constitution was adopted. Despite being the territory of Creek and Cherokee nations, European Americans pressured for the removal of Native Americans, which occurred in the 1830s under President Jackson.

On January 19, 1861, Georgia seceded from the Union and joined the Confederate States of America on February 8. Georgia contributed nearly 120,000 soldiers to the Confederate war effort, with the Battle of Chickamauga being its last major victory. After the Civil War, Georgians faced economic challenges, but the enfranchisement of freedmen and their alliance with the Republican Party led to the first biracial legislature, which established public education and welfare institutions. White Democrats regained control through violence and intimidation by 1875, disenfranchising black people and poor whites near the century’s end. From the late 19th century into 1964, blacks were suppressed as second-class citizens, leading to mass migration northward to escape oppressive conditions.

The Great Depression hit all Georgians hard, but World War II training bases in Georgia boosted the economy, offering new opportunities for black residents. During the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s, Atlanta became a pivotal city, with Martin Luther King Jr. as a prominent leader. Post-1950, Georgia’s economy grew and diversified, with Atlanta evolving into a major regional city and transportation hub. Since 2000, Georgia’s white majority has supported the Republican Party, which generally commands U.S. politics in the 21st century.

Georgia Day Timeline

• 1733: James Oglethorpe founds Savannah and the British colony of Georgia.
• 1776: Georgia signs the U.S. Declaration of Independence, asserting freedom from Britain.
• 1788: Georgia ratifies its state constitution, becoming the fourth state in the United States.
• 1829: Gold is discovered in Northern Georgia, sparking the Gold Rush.

FAQs About Georgia Day

• When was Georgia established? The colony was founded by James Oglethorpe in 1733, initially settling in what is now Savannah.
• How many counties are in Georgia? Georgia is divided into 159 counties.
• What is Georgia’s nickname? Georgia is affectionately known as the “Peach State.”

How to Celebrate Georgia Day

• Read about Georgia’s history: With its rich history, Georgia offers countless books to explore in celebration.
• Visit a monument: From the Georgia Aquarium to historical landmarks, countless sites offer a glimpse into Georgia’s past.
• Share on social media: If you’re partaking in Georgia Day activities, use the #GeorgiaDay hashtag to join the conversation online.

Five Interesting Facts About Georgia

• Georgia was the only colony out of the original 13 that prohibited slavery.
• It was among the first colonies to join the Union.
• The American Civil Rights movement had its headquarters in Georgia.
• Georgia is the birthplace of Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
• Coca-Cola, the world-famous beverage, was invented in Georgia by John Stith Pemberton in 1886.

Why Georgia Day Matters

• Cultural Significance: Georgia is a key part of America’s cultural history, especially in terms of racial inclusivity.
• Civil Rights Impact: The deep ties of Martin Luther King Jr. and the Civil Rights movement to Georgia underscore its historical importance.
• Role in Independence: Georgia’s signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence marks its crucial role in America’s quest for freedom.

What is the date of Georgia Day every year?

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