History of Memorial Day
Skyler Powers
Memorial Day is an American holiday observed on the last Monday of May every year. It is a day meant to commemorate the men and women who have died while serving in the American military. This holiday has very interesting origins.
The Civil War was, at that point in history, the greatest loss of American life ever. Following the war’s end in 1865, national cemeteries were established for the first time. Family members eventually began the tradition of springtime commemorations by placing flowers at the graves of their loved ones and reciting prayers. It is believed that many communities across the United States started these days of memorium independently. In 1966, however, the federal government declared Waterloo, New York, the birthplace of Memorial Day.
Decoration Day was created by General John A. Logan in 1868 and was observed on May 30th. He chose that date because it was not the anniversary of any battle in particular, meaning that no favoritism would be shown. It was a day where the graves of fallen soldiers would be decorated with flowers. By 1890, Decoration Day was an official holiday in every Northern state. After World War I, Southern states joined in on the celebration too.
Over the course of several decades, the day gradually came to be known nationwide as Memorial Day. It continued to be on May 30th. In 1968, however, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. This act officially moved Memorial Day to the last Monday of May in order to give federal employees another three-day weekend. The change went into effect in 1971 and the act also made Memorial Day a federal holiday.
Over the past few decades, Memorial Day traditions have not changed much. Every year, there are parades across the country. Many people visit and decorate the graves of their loved ones who died while serving in the military. The day, along with the entirety of Memorial Day Weekend, has also become synonymous with outdoor parties and barbecues. This is very much due to the fact that it is seen as the unofficial start of summer. Many Americans like to usher in the summer season while also paying their respects to the men and women who have sacrificed their lives for the safety of our nation.
