Memorial Day Origins

Memorial Day originated after World War I to honor American service members who died while serving their country. The holiday was initially called Decoration Day and was established by an act of Congress in 1868. It was created to decorate the graves of soldiers who died during the Civil War, especially those buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Over time, the holiday evolved to honor all American service members who made the ultimate sacrifice, regardless of the war or conflict they served in. In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday, and it was officially recognized as a day to remember and honor those who died while serving their country.