Mother's Day Explained: Origin 2026

Mother's Day is a special day to appreciate mothers and motherhood.

Introduction & Overview

Mother's Day has its roots in ancient civilizations, religious customs, and the work of social activists like Anna Jarvis.

The holiday as we know it began in the United States in the early 1900s. Ann Reeves Jarvis, a social activist, inspired the idea, and her daughter Anna Jarvis later made it official to honour her mother's sacrifices and the important role of mothers.

Historical Timeline

The first official Mother’s Day was held on May 10, 1908, at a church in Grafton, West Virginia. Since then, the holiday has spread around the world and is now a special day to appreciate mothers and motherhood.

Key Facts & Figures

• Anna Jarvis is known as the founder of modern Mother's Day.
• The first official Mother's Day was celebrated on May 10, 1908.
• Ann Reeves Jarvis helped improve public health and supported mothers during the American Civil War.
• Mother's Day became a national holiday in the United States in 1914.

Memory Tricks

To remember the date of Mother's Day, recall that it is celebrated on the second Sunday of May every year. You can also associate it with the phrase "May's Special Day" to remember that it falls in the month of May.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the origin of Mother's Day?

A: Mother's Day originated in the United States in the early 1900s, inspired by social activist Ann Reeves Jarvis and her daughter Anna Jarvis.

Q: Who is known as the founder of modern Mother's Day?

A: Anna Jarvis is known as the founder of modern Mother's Day. She started the holiday to honour her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, and her sacrifices.

Q: When is Mother's Day celebrated in countries like the United States, India, Canada, and Australia?

A: Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May in countries like the United States, India, Canada, and Australia.