What is Memorial Day and how has it evolved from its Civil War origins?
Memorial Day is a U.S. holiday dedicated to honoring fallen service members, originating from the Civil War. Over time, it has evolved into an unofficial start of summer, marked by travel and sales. The holiday is observed on the last Monday of May and includes a National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m.
- ▪Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May and is a day of reflection for those who died in military service.
- ▪The holiday originated from the Civil War, with the first national observance occurring on May 30, 1868.
- ▪Over the years, Memorial Day has transformed into a day associated with leisure and sales, rather than solely a day of remembrance.
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ABC NewsLiveVideoShowsGood Morning AmericaShopGMAInterest Successfully AddedWe'll notify you here with news aboutTurn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? OffOnStream onWhat is Memorial Day and how has it evolved from its Civil War origins?Memorial Day in the United States is supposed to be about mourning fallen service membersByThe Associated PressMay 25, 2026, 4:23 AM1:12FILE - Eugene and Linda Lamie, of Homerville, Ga., sit by the grave of their son U.S. Army Sgt. Gene Lamie in Section 60 at Arlington National Cemetery on Memorial Day, Monday, May 29, 2023, in Arlington, Va. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, file)The Associated PressMemorial Day is a U.S.
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