President’s Day Greeting Cards: History, Choices and Crafting Meaningful Messages
President’s Day is a US federal holiday celebrated on the third Monday of February. Originally established to honor President George Washington’s birthday, it has evolved into a day to celebrate all US presidents past and present. Exchanging greeting cards is a popular way to commemorate this day dedicated to the spirit of leadership, patriotism and citizenship.
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The Origins of Sending President’s Day Cards
The tradition of sending President’s Day greeting cards started with the celebrations honoring George Washington’s birthday. Washington’s birthday on February 22nd became an unofficial holiday in the late 18th century. In 1879 it officially became a federal holiday. As the first president of the United States, Washington was revered as a symbol of national unity. His birthday celebrations included sending cards and letters as a token of respect and gratitude.
Over the years, Washington’s Birthday expanded to include commemorating Abraham Lincoln’s birthday on February 12th. Lincoln also came to represent leadership, integrity and the fight for freedom. In the late 1960s, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. This moved the joint celebration of Washington and Lincoln’s birthdays to the third Monday of February. The day became known as President’s Day and transformed into a celebration of all US presidents.
With this new tradition, President’s Day greeting cards evolved from simple patriotic designs honoring Washington to include tributes to other notable presidents. Humorous and educational cards also became popular for children. The greeting card industry offered more creative options to celebrate leadership, democracy and America’s rich presidential history.
Popular Types of President’s Day Greeting Cards
There are many styles of President’s Day greeting cards available today to help commemorate this holiday:
Traditional and Patriotic Cards
These classic cards feature images of the American flag, White House, Mount Rushmore and other patriotic symbols. Quotes from famous presidents and messages about freedom are common. Traditional cards are suitable for sending to veterans, government officials, educators and other public servants.
Humorous and Sarcastic Cards
Funny cards often feature caricatures of presidents or political jokes. They poke lighthearted fun at blunders and scandals with clever captions. These humorous cards allow good-natured debate and commentary on leadership in government.
Educational Cards for Kids
Many President’s Day greeting cards designed for children incorporate trivia, facts and timelines about US presidents. They have simple messages about leadership, character and making a difference. Parents often select these cards to teach history and civics lessons.
Photo Cards and Personalized Designs
Adding family photos with a presidential theme is popular. For a more personal touch, people can create customized cards with the recipient’s name on a faux presidential seal. Handmade and artsy designs also allow for unique creative expression.
Digital Ecards and Animated Options
Online services provide ecard options, some with sound, animations and video clips. These modern digital cards reduce paper waste for eco-friendly senders. Email and social media make them easy to share widely.
With the greeting card industry offers more creative options to celebrate leadership, democracy and America’s rich presidential history.
Selecting the Perfect President’s Day Greeting Card
With so many types of President’s Day greeting cards, it can be challenging to select the most appropriate option. Here are some helpful tips:
Consider the Recipient
Review the recipient’s age, interests and relationship before choosing a card design. Teachers and public servants may appreciate patriotic or educational themes. Elderly relatives may be nostalgic for vintage-styled cards. For most friends and family, humorous cards are ideal for getting a laugh.
Match the Occasion
Acknowledge why you are sending the card in your message. Is it to say Happy President’s Day to a political leader or government colleague? To thank military veterans for their service? To inspire children with stories of great presidents? Tailor your card selection and message accordingly.
Balance Humor with Respect
When selecting humorous President’s Day greeting cards, be aware of the current political climate. Avoid designs and messages that mock or degrade. Focus on lighthearted bipartisan comedy that unites rather than divides.
Review Environmental Options
Many eco-conscious people prefer recycled cardstock, plantable seed paper or e-card options. If sending paper cards, choose minimal packaging and include a reminder to recycle.
Consider Handmade Works of Art
For a truly special and personalized card, explore the many handmade options available. Quilling Card specializes in handcrafted cards using paper art techniques to create stunning designs worthy of framing. Their artisanal cards elevate a greeting into a cherished gift. Check their website for inspiration and take advantage of these Quilling Card coupons.
By considering the recipient, occasion, humor and eco-impact when choosing a President’s Day greeting card, you can find the perfect match to commemorate the holiday.
Crafting Meaningful Messages in President’s Day Cards
Beyond the card design, the written sentiment is equally important for making a memorable impact. Avoid bland standard greetings and take time to craft a thoughtful note.
Share Inspirational Quotes
Look for relevant quotes from past presidents that reflect positive values like courage, integrity and diplomacy. For example:
“America was not built on fear. America was built on courage, on imagination and an unbeatable determination to do the job at hand.” – Harry S. Truman
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” -Eleanor Roosevelt
“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
Highlight Presidential Legacies
For history buffs, mention how a president’s policies and leadership shaped the course of America. For example, Abraham Lincoln and the fight to end slavery or Ronald Reagan’s impact on the Cold War era. Make it meaningful.
Promote Patriotism and Unity
In this age of polarization, messages about common ground and national unity resonate more than ever. Remind people of the values and freedoms that Americans share despite political differences.
Express Gratitude
Thank recipients for embodying leadership, patriotism or public service in their own lives. Recognize those making valuable contributions to the community and country.
Add Personal Reflection
Make your card unique by sharing your own thoughts on what President’s Day means to you. What do leadership and good citizenship look like today? What hopes do you have for America’s future? Make it personal.
Additional Ways to Celebrate President’s Day
Beyond just sending President’s Day greeting cards, there are many other meaningful ways to observe this holiday:
- Visit historic presidential sites like Mount Vernon, the White House or presidential libraries.
- Watch documentaries about American history and the presidency.
- Read biographies about presidents to study their leadership lessons.
- Volunteer at organizations promoting patriotism, democracy or social justice.
- Attend local President’s Day events like historical reenactments.
- Discuss presidents that inspire you with friends and family.
- Involve children in activities teaching leadership and civics.
- Reflect on how you can demonstrate good citizenship and community service.
With so many options, find meaningful ways to honor leadership and strengthen democracy this President’s Day.
President’s Day Cards Bring People Together
Exchanging President’s Day greeting cards remains a simple but meaningful tradition. It provides an opportunity to celebrate leadership, reflect on America’s past and focus on national unity. By selecting thoughtful designs and crafting inspiring personal messages, these special cards reinforce the democratic principles and shared values that define the spirit of our country.
Let a President’s Day greeting card express your patriotism and bring us all closer together.
