National German American Day 2024: History, Quotes, Messages, Wishes, Celebration
National German American Day is a holiday in the United States, held on 6 October every year. This holiday celebrates the German-American tradition and commemorates the arrival of 13 German families from Krefeld near the Rhine in Philadelphia in 1683. These families subsequently established the first German settlement in the original 13 American colonies in Germantown, Pennsylvania. German-American Day was first celebrated in the 19th century, but due to the prevailing anti-German sentiment at the time, it disappeared during the First World War.
National German American Day History
National German-American Day was first celebrated in the 19th century. However, it fell out of favor during the First World War. Then in the 1980s, things started to change. According to tradition, President Ronald Reagan conducted his world tour in 1982, which included West Germany. During a cold conflict and a divided Germany, the newly elected United States President spoke to the people of Bonn. He first told the history of 13 German families that established colonies on American soil. He talked about contribution, progress, science and art, and the honor of celebrating the German heritage claimed by more than 7 million Americans.
To honor the 300th anniversary in 1983 President Ronald Reagan declared 6 October as German-American Day. On August 6, 1987, Congress approved SI 108, which designated October 6, 1987, as German-American Day, and became public law 100-104 when President Reagan signed it on August 18. He was on October 2, 1987. At this time, the President called on Americans to celebrate this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. Since the presidential announcement, commemorative events have been held every year.
Interesting facts about German American Day!
- German-Americans introduced the first kindergarten in the United States.
- In 2016, the U.S. Census Bureau reported that 43 million German Americans live in the United States and have all or part of German ancestry.
- Seven American presidents are of German descent: Theodore Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Herbert Hoover, Richard Nixon, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump.
- Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Iowa have the most German-Americans.
How to celebrate National German American Day:
- Read German literature, such as fairy tales by the Brothers Grimm, short stories by Anton Chekhov, or any work by Goethe.
- Find famous Americans of German descent and learn about their accomplishments. Looking for German-American scientists, politicians, and philanthropists.
- If you can’t speak German then start learning it.
- If you don’t know your own traditions, please check your family history. Ask any living grandparents. Research your family on the ancestry website. No matter what you find, write it down to your child.
How Germany Influence American Culture and Society
The Germans were deeply involved in early American politics. In 1688, only five years after their arrival, they sent their first petition to the British royal family demanding the abolition of slavery. Germans, such as Baron von Steuben and Karl Ludwick, fought for American independence. On July 5, 1776, the German-language newspaper “Pennsylvanischer Staatsbote” was the first American newspaper to publish the “Declaration of Independence” for everyone to read (the English newspaper was opened to the public in July 6). Later, they actively participated in the union established to ensure better working conditions. They have severely affected the 6-day work week and the 8-hour workday.
But it’s not just politics and strong professional ethics. The Germans brought many traditions, which are now deeply integrated into the structure of the United States. From holiday customs such as the Christmas tree and Easter bunny to educational concepts such as kindergarten and the concept of free primary education for all. Many things that we take for granted in the United States come from these early German immigrants.
There are other effects. Some people say that the Germans invented the weekend idea. The early Americans observed the Puritan Sabbath on Sundays, but the Germans introduced “Sunday outings.” Wherever the Germans settled, they have established social clubs, singing and music clubs, and even leisure facilities such as bowling alleys and family picnic areas in the park. Since fitness is very important, they set up sports clubs and introduced track and field and gymnastics to the community.
National German American Day Messages
- “Happy National German American Day! Celebrating the rich heritage, culture, and contributions of German Americans. Prost to a day filled with unity and pride!”
- “On National German American Day, we honor the traditions and achievements of the German American community. May your day be as vibrant as the cultures you embrace!”
- “Wishing all German Americans a joyful and meaningful National German American Day. Your heritage is a tapestry of strength, innovation, and diversity.”
- “Cheers to National German American Day! May the legacy of German Americans continue to inspire us and remind us of the importance of cultural diversity.”
- “As we mark National German American Day, let’s celebrate the legacy of hard work, innovation, and cultural richness that German Americans have brought to our nation.”
- “Happy National German American Day! May your day be filled with fond memories, cultural connections, and a deep sense of pride in your heritage.”
- “Today we honor the history, values, and achievements of German Americans. Happy National German American Day! May your traditions continue to thrive.”
- “From sausages to symphonies, German Americans have shaped our nation in countless ways. Happy National German American Day – a time to celebrate these contributions!”
- “Wishing everyone a wonderful National German American Day. Let’s cherish the traditions that have enriched our society and recognize the importance of diversity.”
- “On this National German American Day, let’s remember the pioneers who shaped our nation’s identity and celebrate the vibrant culture they brought with them.”
- “As we commemorate National German American Day, may we continue to learn, share, and appreciate the contributions of German Americans that have made our nation great.”
- “Happy National German American Day! From food to music, your cultural impact is felt far and wide. Here’s to celebrating your rich heritage!”
- “Raise a stein to National German American Day! Your influence on American culture and society is truly worth celebrating.”
- “On this special day, we pay tribute to the traditions and history that German Americans have woven into the fabric of our nation. Happy National German American Day!”
- “May the celebrations on National German American Day remind us of the importance of embracing and learning from diverse cultures. Cheers to unity in diversity!”
National German American Day Quotes
here are some quotes that capture the essence of National German American Day:
- “Heritage and history shape our present and inspire our future. Happy National German American Day!”
- “In diversity, we find unity. Celebrating the contributions of German Americans on this special day.”
- “Proudly celebrating the German American spirit that has enriched our nation’s tapestry.”
- “A nation is built on the shoulders of those who bring their cultures with them. Happy National German American Day!”
- “Cultural diversity is our strength. On this day, we honor the German American legacy.”
- “From roots in Germany to branches in America, we celebrate the journey of German Americans.”
- “Embracing the past, celebrating the present, and shaping the future on National German American Day.”
- “Let us remember and honor the pioneers whose dreams and determination paved the way for today’s vibrant German American community.”
- “Unity in diversity is a cause for celebration. Happy National German American Day!”
- “Cultural heritage connects us across time and place. Happy National German American Day!”
- “May the contributions of German Americans continue to inspire us to build a brighter future.”
- “Diversity is what makes our nation unique. Celebrating the legacy of German Americans today.”
- “Remembering the stories, preserving the traditions. Happy National German American Day!”
- “The impact of German Americans resonates through our nation’s history. Cheers to their lasting contributions!”
- “On this day, we celebrate the fusion of cultures that has shaped the American experience. Happy National German American Day!”
Feel free to use these quotes to celebrate and honor the contributions of German Americans on their special day.
National German American Day Wishes
- “Wishing you a joyful and meaningful National German American Day! May your heritage continue to inspire and enrich our diverse society.”
- “Happy National German American Day! May your celebrations be filled with pride, unity, and the warmth of cultural connections.”
- “On this special day, may your German American heritage shine brightly as you celebrate the traditions that make you unique. Happy National German American Day!”
- “Sending warm wishes on National German American Day! May your day be filled with love, laughter, and a strong sense of cultural pride.”
- “Happy National German American Day! Embrace your heritage and the beautiful blend of cultures that have shaped you.”
- “May your National German American Day be a time of reflection, celebration, and an appreciation for the rich heritage you carry.”
- “As you celebrate National German American Day, may you find joy in the stories, customs, and values that have been passed down through generations.”
- “Wishing you a day filled with cherished traditions, cultural connections, and a deep sense of pride in your German American roots. Happy National German American Day!”
- “Celebrate the legacy of your German American heritage on this special day. May it remind you of the strength and diversity that define our nation.”
- “Happy National German American Day! May your celebrations be a tribute to the journey of your ancestors and the vibrant culture they brought with them.”
- “On this day, let your German American heritage shine like a beacon of unity and diversity. Happy National German American Day!”
- “May your National German American Day be filled with joy, laughter, and a deep appreciation for the cultural richness you bring to our society.”
- “Happy National German American Day! May your celebrations be a testament to the enduring spirit of your heritage and the values it upholds.”
- “As you celebrate National German American Day, remember the strength that comes from embracing your roots and the contributions you make to our shared culture.”
- “Wishing you a day of togetherness, cultural pride, and celebration as you mark National German American Day with joy and gratitude.”