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Category: Holidays
Why the Founder of Mother’s Day Turned Against It
Anna Jarvis, who founded Mother’s Day in 1908, passionately opposed its growing commercialization and eventually campaigned against the holiday.
8 Zany April Fools’ Day Hoaxes
From spaghetti trees to a Nixon comeback, check out some of history’s most elaborate April Fools’ Day pranks.
George Washington’s Revolutionary St. Patrick’s Day
When General George Washington needed to boost sagging patriot morale, he enlisted a rarely celebrated holiday—St. Patrick’s Day—to the cause.
6 Surprising Facts About St. Valentine
Who was St. Valentine, and why do we celebrate him on February 14? In honor of Valentine’s Day, get the facts about this enigmatic character.
9 Things You May Not Know About Mardi Gras
As Mardi Gras bacchanalia break out in New Orleans and elsewhere, get the facts about this raucous affair.
8 Things You Should Know About Chinese New Year
Usher in the Year of the Snake with a detailed look at Chinese New Year.
A Brief History of College Bowl Games
As college football kicks off 2013 with six bowl games, explore the history of this New Year’s Day tradition.
5 Things You May Not Know About Kwanzaa
As millions of people around the world prepare to celebrate Kwanzaa, explore five things you may not know about this pan-African holiday.
The Royal Roots of the American Christmas Tree
An American holiday tradition was launched by a fashionable British queen celebrating an old German custom.
Guy Fawkes Day: A Brief History
As Britain celebrates Guy Fawkes Day today with fireworks and bonfires, look back at Fawkes’ failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605.
Independence Day at the White House: 5 Fourth of July Tales
On the eve of Independence Day, get into the holiday spirit with five entertaining tales about Fourth of July celebrations at the White House.
A Flag Day History of the Stars and Stripes
In honor of Flag Day this Thursday, discover how the Stars and Stripes came into existence.
7 Things You May Not Know About Cinco de Mayo
Get the story behind the Cinco de Mayo holiday as the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Puebla approaches.
