How did Mother's Day originated?

Mother's Day originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The modern Mother's Day celebration can be attributed to Anna Jarvis, who wanted to honor her own mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, a social activist who cared for wounded soldiers on both sides of the American Civil War and later worked to promote peace and public health. After her mother's death in 1905, Anna Jarvis wanted to create a day to honor all mothers and their contributions to society.

In 1908, Anna Jarvis organized the first official Mother's Day celebration at a Methodist church in Grafton, West Virginia, where her mother had taught Sunday school. The event was a tribute to her mother and all mothers, featuring white carnations, which became the symbol of Mother's Day due to their association with purity, sweetness, and the maternal bond.

Anna Jarvis campaigned tirelessly to establish Mother's Day as a national holiday, writing letters to politicians and influential figures. Her efforts paid off when, in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially declared the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day, a day to honor mothers and their importance in society.

Over time, Mother's Day has evolved into a day for expressing love and gratitude to mothers and maternal figures through gifts, cards, and special gestures. It is celebrated in many countries around the world, although the dates and traditions may vary. Despite its commercialization in modern times, Mother's Day remains a meaningful occasion for honoring and appreciating the mothers in our lives.