The History of Veterans Day in a Few Quick Minutes

The history of Veterans Day traces its roots back to the 11th month, the 11th day, and the 11th hour of 1918. This is when World War I was declared to be over. Shortly after that, Congress enacted a federal holiday called Armistice Day, which celebrated the end of World War I.

From 1939 onward, Armistice Day persisted as a holiday. However, in 1954, veterans began lobbying to broaden its significance. They argued that the day should not only celebrate the end of World War I but honor all veterans. With World War II just ended and the Korean War recently concluded, the scope of the holiday expanded to recognize all veterans.

Thus, in 1954, Armistice Day officially became Veterans Day, thanks to the efforts of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. (As a note, Eisenhower was a Kansan, and I’m a Kansan too!) The date of Veterans Day remained significant, continuing to be observed on November 11 to honor the timing of World War I’s end—the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. While there may be variations in exact hours due to time zones, the key idea is the symbolic timing.

For a brief period, the date of Veterans Day shifted. In the 1970s, it was celebrated on the fourth Monday of October, but by 1978, the observance was moved back to November 11, where it remains today. If November 11 falls on a weekend, the observance is typically adjusted to the closest weekday—either Monday or Friday.

How is Veterans Day Different from Memorial Day?

Veterans Day celebrates all veterans—those who have served, whether in peacetime or war, and whether alive or deceased. Memorial Day, on the other hand, specifically honors those who died in combat or in service to our country.

So, while Veterans Day is a broader celebration of service, Memorial Day is a solemn remembrance of sacrifice. As a veteran myself, I think it’s important to honor both appropriately—celebrating veterans on Veterans Day and remembering the fallen on Memorial Day.

Summary

Veterans Day has a rich history, beginning with World War I and evolving over time. It started as Armistice Day, was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 by President Eisenhower, and, after some date changes, has been consistently observed on November 11 for the last several decades. The holiday recognizes and celebrates the contributions of all veterans.