Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning the military personnel who have died in the performance of their military duties. The holiday is observed on the last Monday of May.
History
Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day and originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the Civil War. By the 20th century, Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who have died while in the military service.
Traditions
Memorial Day is observed with various traditions, including visiting cemeteries and memorials, volunteering, and attending parades. It is also a popular time for barbecues and picnics as it marks the unofficial beginning of the summer season.
Study Guide
- What is the original name of Memorial Day?
- When is Memorial Day observed?
- Who is Memorial Day meant to honor?
- What was the original purpose of Memorial Day?
- What are some traditions associated with Memorial Day?
Answers
- The original name of Memorial Day was Decoration Day.
- Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May.
- Memorial Day is meant to honor and mourn military personnel who have died in the performance of their military duties.
- The original purpose of Memorial Day was to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the Civil War.
- Some traditions associated with Memorial Day include visiting cemeteries and memorials, volunteering, attending parades, and having barbecues and picnics.
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Study GuideStudy GuideStudy GuideStudy GuideStudy GuideStudy GuideStudy GuideStudy GuideWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (NCSS)
TIME, CONTINUITY, AND CHANGE
SOCIAL STUDIES PROGRAMS SHOULD INCLUDE EXPERIENCES THAT PROVIDE FOR THE STUDY OF THE PAST AND ITS LEGACY.
KNOWLEDGE - Learners will understand:
Key symbols and traditions that are carried from the past into the present by diverse cultures in the United States and world.
National Standards for Civics and Government (NSCG)
What are the Basic Values and Principles of American Democracy? Why is it important for Americans to share certain values, principles, and beliefs?
American identity: Students should be able to explain the importance of Americans sharing and supporting certain values, principles, and beliefs. To achieve this standard, students should be able to
Describe holidays Americans celebrate and explain how they reflect their shared values, principles, and beliefs, e.g., the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Memorial Day, Presidents’ Day, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving, Veterans Day, Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday
National Center for History in Schools (NCHS)
Topic 3: The History of the United States: Democratic Principles and Values and the People from Many Cultures Who Contributed to Its Cultural, Economic, and Political Heritage
How democratic values came to be, and how they have been exemplified by people, events, and symbols.
The student understands events that celebrate and exemplify fundamental values and principles of American democracy.