Mother's Day is a widely celebrated holiday dedicated to honoring the women who have made sacrifices and provided unconditional love in our lives. But when did this tradition begin? The origins of Mother's Day can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where mothers were revered for their nurturing and caregiving roles.

In the United States, Mother's Day as we know it today was first recognized as an official holiday in 1914 by President Woodrow Wilson. However, it wasn't until Anna Jarvis' efforts that the holiday gained widespread popularity. Jarvis started campaigning for a national day to honor mothers after her own mother passed away in 1905. She envisioned a day where children could show appreciation for their mothers through handwritten notes and flowers.

Anna Jarvis is a well-known name in the United States, especially when it comes to Mother's Day. But who was her mother? Anna's mom, Ann Reeves Jarvis, was a remarkable woman whose legacy goes beyond just being the inspiration for one of the most celebrated holidays in America.

Ann Reeves Jarvis was born in 1832 and lived through some of the most tumultuous times in American history. She grew up during an era where women had limited rights and opportunities. Despite this, she became a recognized leader within her community due to her volunteer work and activism. Ann was passionate about health issues and sanitation, which led her to start Mothers' Day Work Clubs during the Civil War aimed at improving public health.

Ann Reeves Jarvis believed in using education as a tool for bettering society, so she also initiated literacy programs for adults and children alike.