Jefferson Davis’ Birthday in Florida
Jefferson Davis’ Birthday is a holiday that’s observed in several U.S states on several different days. In some states, it’s celebrated on the same day as Memorial Day, like the observance is in Mississippi. In other places, it’s observed on the anniversary of his actual birthday on June 3, 1808.
United States (Local observance) That’s why in Florida it’s observed on June 3rd as a public holiday. Because it’s a public holiday, government offices and schools are closed on this day. Recently, attempts have been made in the legislature to bring this holiday and other Confederate holidays to an end. As of the writing of this holiday article, these attempts have been unsuccessful.
The History Of Jefferson Davis’ Birthday In Florida
Jefferson Davis was born on June 3, 1808, in Kentucky and was elected President of the Confederacy during the Civil War. When the war came to an end, he was captured and accused of treason, although he was never tried and only served a 2-year sentence. At the turn of the century, the Klu Klux Klan and other organizations that supported the Confederacy lobbied to make his birthday a legal holiday. That would eventually happen in 1905 with the creation of this holiday.
Facts About Jefferson Davis
Below are some facts about Jefferson Davis and his legacy.
- Davis was arrested for participating in the Eggnog Riot of 1826 at West Point.
- He was named after Thomas Jefferson.
- He established the United States Camel Corps during the mid-19th century.
Observing Jefferson Davis’ Birthday In Florida
Although this holiday is a legal holiday in Florida, it’s not a paid holiday for public employees in the state. On this day, people who support the legacy of the Confederacy celebrate this holiday by raising the First National Flag — also known as the Stars and Bars, or the Second National Flag — also known as the Stainless Banner. Other Confederate flags that are flown on this day include the Bonnie Blue Flag, the Confederate Naval Jack, or the Confederate Battle Flag.
United States (Local observance) 
