Celebrating Mother’s Day: Honoring Women Who Shaped History

Mother’s Day is more than a day of flowers and brunch—it celebrates what mothers do for us. Observed in many countries around the world, Mother’s Day has a rich history that I’d like to share in honor of the amazing moms around the world.

The modern American version of Mother’s Day began in the early 20th century because of Anna Jarvis. Jarvis wanted a national holiday to honor mothers’ sacrifices. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially proclaimed the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.

While we often celebrate our own mothers, I’d also like to recognize mothers who made history while raising children. Three examples stand out:

Coretta Scott King, wife of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and civil rights leader and mother of four. She founded the King Center and played a vital role in making her husband’s birthday a national holiday.

Marie Curie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, was also a devoted mother. Despite facing societal barriers, she raised two daughters while conducting groundbreaking research in physics and chemistry.

Maya Angelou, legendary poet, author, and civil rights activist, was a single mother who raised her son while accomplishing literary works. She inspired generations.

On Mother’s Day, we honor not just the daily care mothers provide, but also their strength, resilience, and contributions to society. Whether through quiet sacrifices or bold public actions, mothers shape families—and the world.