The date May 24 is simply the twenty-fourth day of the fifth month in the Gregorian calendar. However, the question "Why is it called May 24?" often implicitly refers to its historical and cultural significance, particularly as it relates to Victoria Day in Canada. This specific date became notable because it marks the birthday of Queen Victoria.
The Historical Significance of May 24
The prominence of May 24 is directly linked to the reign of Queen Victoria and its lasting impact on Canadian history.
- Queen Victoria's Birthday: May 24 was the actual birthdate of Queen Victoria (born in 1819). During her extensive reign, celebrating her birthday became a tradition across the British Empire.
- Early Holiday Declaration: As early as 1845, while Queen Victoria was still on the throne, May 24 was officially declared a holiday in Canada to honor her birthday. This marked the beginning of its recognition as a day of celebration and leisure.
- Establishment of Victoria Day: After Queen Victoria's passing in 1901, the Canadian Parliament formally established Victoria Day as a legal holiday. This act solidified the tradition, ensuring the celebration continued to be observed on May 24. To accommodate weekends, the holiday was to be celebrated on May 25 when May 24 fell on a Sunday.
The evolution of May 24 from a queen's birthday to a formal national holiday underscores its enduring legacy. Today, Victoria Day is observed as a statutory holiday in Canada, celebrating the monarch's birthday and often marking the unofficial start of summer.
For more information on the history of this holiday, you can refer to the Victoria Day entry.
