Remembrance Day has been observed in Commonwealth countries since the end of World War I to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Following a tradition started by King George V, the day is also marked by war remembrances in many non-Commonwealth countries.
In most countries, Remembrance Day is observed on November 11, recalling the cessation of World War I hostilities, which ended formally “at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month” of 1918.
The tradition of Remembrance Day evolved out of Armistice Day. The initial Armistice Day was observed at Buckingham Palace, commencing with King George V hosting a “Banquet in Honor of the President of the French Republic during the evening hours of November 10, 1919.” The first official Armistice Day was subsequently held on the grounds of Buckingham Palace the following morning. During World War II, many countries changed the name. Commonwealth nations adopted Remembrance Day, while the United States chose Veterans Day.
Please login or subscribe to view the complete article.