Who Invented Mother’s Day? Honoring Moms Everywhere
Today, Mother’s Day is celebrated around the world, but do you know where and how it all began?
While ancient civilizations had their own ways of honoring motherhood, the modern version of Mother’s Day can be traced back to the United States in the early 20th century. The movement started with a woman named Anna Jarvis, who sought to honor her late mother’s dream of having a day set aside just for moms.
🇺🇸 The Official Start of Mother’s Day in the U.S.
The first official Mother’s Day was celebrated on May 12, 1908, thanks to Anna Jarvis, who organized an event in Grafton, West Virginia, to honor her mother. Inspired by her mother’s wish to recognize the efforts of mothers, Jarvis tirelessly campaigned for the holiday to be nationally recognized.
Over time, other countries around the world followed suit, though many have adopted different dates for the celebration.
Ancient Roots of Honoring Mothers
Although the U.S. played a key role in formalizing the day, the concept of honoring mothers dates back thousands of years. Ancient civilizations like the Romans celebrated a version of Mother’s Day known as Matronalia, dedicated to the goddess Juno, protector of women and childbirth.
In medieval Europe, a celebration known as Laetare Sunday (the fourth Sunday of Lent) became associated with both the Virgin Mary and one’s “mother church”, eventually evolving into a day to honor mothers themselves.
Mother’s Day Around the World
In Europe
In countries like the UK and Ireland, Mother’s Day is still celebrated on Laetare Sunday. Other European countries also observe it on different spring Sundays, mixing religious roots with modern customs.
In Africa and the Middle East
Many African nations adopted Mother’s Day from British traditions, blending local culture with Western practices. In many Arab countries, it is celebrated on March 21, aligning with the first day of spring.
- In Asia
Bangladesh observes Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May, similar to the U.S. - In India, Mother’s Day is celebrated on August 19, often coinciding with regional festivals like Pathare Prabhu, which bring in unique local traditions.
In South America
Bolivia celebrates Mother’s Day on May 27, commemorating the Battle of Coronilla (1812) during the country’s fight for independence. Many female freedom fighters were killed, making this day a tribute to both mothers and national heroines.
Who invented Mother’s Day?
Anna Jarvis is credited with founding modern Mother’s Day in the U.S. in 1908 to honor her late mother and all mothers’ sacrifices.
When was Mother’s Day officially recognized in the U.S.?
Mother’s Day became an official U.S. holiday in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation setting the second Sunday of May as the celebration day.
Is Mother’s Day celebrated on the same date around the world?
No, the date varies by country. While many follow the U.S. and celebrate in May, others like the UK, Bolivia, and Arab nations observe it on different dates with local significance.
What are the ancient origins of Mother’s Day?
The tradition has roots in Roman festivals (like Matronalia) and Christian celebrations like Laetare Sunday, which honored both the Virgin Mary and motherhood.
Why does Bolivia celebrate Mother’s Day on May 27?
It marks the anniversary of the Battle of Coronilla in 1812, where many women died fighting for Bolivia’s independence, making it a symbolic day of maternal and patriotic tribute.
How is Mother’s Day celebrated around the world?
Traditions vary but often include flowers, greeting cards, gifts, and family gatherings. Some countries blend modern customs with religious or cultural practices unique to their heritage.