Mother's Day, as celebrated in the United States, has its roots in the efforts of a remarkable woman named Anna Jarvis. The story goes back to the 19th century, when Anna's own mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, was a social activist and community organizer. Ann had organized "Mother's Day Work Clubs" to improve sanitary conditions and decrease infant mortality by combating disease and milk contamination.
Following her mother's death in 1905, Anna Jarvis sought to honor her mother's legacy and the sacrifices mothers make for their children. She envisioned a day to honor all mothers, and tirelessly campaigned for the establishment of a national holiday.
Anna's efforts paid off when, in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation declaring the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day, a day to recognize the contributions of mothers to society.
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