Memorial Day Memorial Day originated after the American Civil War to remember the over 600,000 deaths. The holiday began as "Decoration Day," where soldier’s grave sites were decorated with flowers, wreaths, and flags. The first national observance took place on May 30, 1868. The rationale for this date was never expressed. Over time, Memorial Day evolved from honoring only Civil War dead to commemorating all American military personnel who died in service. This switch was made after World War I, when the holiday expanded to include fallen soldiers from all wars. In 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved Memorial Day to the last Monday in May to create a three-day weekend. Somehow the holiday has become synonymous with the Indy 500 car race, backyard barbecues, and camping as the original intent of the holiday is lost. The Wikipedia backgrounder is here and is pretty good. |