1.
When was Lee–Jackson Day first created?
Correct Answer
A. 1889
Explanation
Lee–Jackson Day was first created in 1889 during the administration of Gov. Fitzhugh Lee, who was a former Confederate cavalry officer and nephew of Gen. Lee. Lee–Jackson Day was established in 1889 during Governor Fitzhugh Lee's administration, reflecting the state's desire to honor its Confederate past. Fitzhugh Lee, a former Confederate cavalry officer and nephew of General Robert E. Lee, played a pivotal role in commemorating these influential military leaders, embedding their legacy into Virginia's cultural fabric.
2.
Who were the Confederate commanders commemorated by Lee–Jackson Day?
Correct Answer
C. Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson
Explanation
The day commemorates Confederate commanders Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson, who fought for Virginia during the American Civil War. Lee–Jackson Day honors Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson, key Confederate generals who led Virginia's troops during the American Civil War. Their tactical prowess and leadership became symbols of the Confederate cause, and this holiday served to remember their contributions to Virginia's military history and the broader Southern heritage.
3.
Which Governor reversed the merger of Lee–Jackson Day with Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in 2000?
Correct Answer
B. Jim Gilmore
Explanation
Governor Jim Gilmore reversed the merger of Lee–Jackson Day with Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in 2000. In 2000, Governor Jim Gilmore separated Lee–Jackson Day from Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, undoing the 1983 merger that combined these observances. This decision reflected ongoing debates over the appropriateness of simultaneously celebrating Confederate figures and a civil rights leader, ultimately reinstating distinct recognitions for each.
4.
When did the observation of Lee–Jackson Day officially end?
Correct Answer
C. 2020
Explanation
The observance of Lee–Jackson Day was officially ended in 2020 when it was replaced by Election Day as a state holiday. Lee–Jackson Day was officially discontinued in 2020, with Election Day taking its place as a state holiday. This change aimed to prioritize civic engagement and voter participation, marking a shift from commemorating Confederate leaders to fostering democratic values and processes within the state of Virginia.
5.
What was the original date of Lee’s birthday when the holiday was first created?
Correct Answer
A. January 19
Explanation
The original holiday was on Lee's birthday, January 19, until 1904 when Jackson's birthday was also added. Initially celebrated on January 19, Robert E. Lee's birthday, the holiday expanded in 1904 to include Stonewall Jackson's birthday, January 21. This adjustment reflected a broader celebration of both Confederate generals, solidifying their joint legacy in Virginia's commemorative practices and historical memory.
6.
Which Virginia municipalities chose not to observe Lee–Jackson Day during the 2010s?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
Various Virginia municipalities, including Charlottesville, Newport News, Richmond, Fairfax, Fredericksburg, Hampton, Winchester, and the Town of Blacksburg, chose not to observe Lee–Jackson Day during the 2010s. This decision was part of a broader move to reconsider the holiday's significance and relevance in modern times, reflecting changing attitudes towards commemorating Confederate leaders. These municipalities opted to distance themselves from the holiday and its associations with the Confederate past.
7.
Who proposed ending the observance of Lee–Jackson Day in early 2020?
Correct Answer
B. Democratic Virginia General Assembly
Explanation
The newly elected Democratic Virginia General Assembly proposed ending the observance of Lee–Jackson Day in early 2020. In early 2020, the newly elected Democratic Virginia General Assembly proposed ending Lee–Jackson Day, reflecting a shift in societal values and a move towards inclusivity. This proposal aimed to replace the controversial holiday with Election Day, emphasizing democratic engagement and modernizing the state's holiday calendar.
8.
What events were typically included on Lee–Jackson Day?
Correct Answer
B. Wreath-laying ceremony
Explanation
Typical events of Lee–Jackson Day included a wreath-laying ceremony with military honors, a Civil War-themed parade, symposia discussing Civil War history, and a gala ball celebrating the lives and legacies of Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson. These events aimed to honor the Confederate commanders and provide a sense of historical reflection. The day was marked by various community activities and gatherings that highlighted the cultural heritage associated with the holiday.
9.
Which Governor approved the bill to end Lee–Jackson Day?
Correct Answer
D. RalpH Northam
Explanation
Governor Ralph Northam approved the bill in March 2020 to end Lee–Jackson Day and replace it with Election Day. Governor Ralph Northam signed the bill in March 2020, officially ending Lee–Jackson Day and designating Election Day as a state holiday. This decision marked a significant moment in Virginia's legislative history, aligning the state's holiday observances with broader democratic principles and civic participation.
10.
On which day was Lee–Jackson Day observed before Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
Correct Answer
D. The Friday before the third Monday in January
Explanation
Lee–Jackson Day was observed on the Friday immediately preceding Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which is the third Monday in January. Lee–Jackson Day was traditionally observed on the Friday preceding Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the third Monday in January. This scheduling created a unique juxtaposition of holidays, reflecting both Virginia's Confederate heritage and the national celebration of civil rights, until the observance was ultimately discontinued in 2020.