HOME > What is the Original Name of Memorial Day?
Introduction
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States that honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. It is observed on the last Monday of May and is often considered the unofficial start of summer. Many people celebrate Memorial Day by attending parades, visiting cemeteries, and holding picnics and barbecues. However, the holiday was not always known as Memorial Day. In this article, we will explore the original name of Memorial Day, its history, origin, and traditions.
History of Memorial Day
The history of Memorial Day dates back to the Civil War. In 1868, General John A. Logan, the commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, declared May 30th as Decoration Day. The purpose of Decoration Day was to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and flags. The first official Decoration Day was held at Arlington National Cemetery, where 5,000 people attended and decorated the graves of 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers.
Origin of Memorial Day
The origin of Memorial Day is often attributed to the efforts of women in the South who decorated the graves of Confederate soldiers. However, the true origin of Memorial Day is unclear and disputed. Some historians believe that the holiday has roots in ancient Greek and Roman traditions, where people would honor their fallen soldiers with ceremonies and feasts. Others believe that the holiday has its origins in the Christian tradition of All Saints' Day, where people would visit the graves of their loved ones and decorate them with flowers.
Traditions of Memorial Day
Over time, Decoration Day became known as Memorial Day and was expanded to honor all fallen soldiers, not just those who died in the Civil War. Today, Memorial Day is observed by many Americans who visit cemeteries and memorials, attend parades, and hold picnics and barbecues. The National Moment of Remembrance, established by Congress in 2000, asks Americans to pause for a moment of silence at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to remember and honor the fallen.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States that honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Although the holiday was originally known as Decoration Day, it has evolved over time to become a day of remembrance and reflection. Whether you attend a parade, visit a cemetery, or hold a picnic, take a moment to remember and honor the sacrifices of those who gave their lives for our country.
