A day of commemoration and celebration of motherhood, Mother's Day has been officially recognized on the second Sunday in May in the United States since 1914, and is presently observed on various dates and in various forms throughout the year in over 80 nations.

Other countries observing Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May include Canada, most of Europe, Australia, New Zealand, India, China, Japan, the Philippines and South Africa.

The tradition of Mother's Day dates back to 17th century England when a day called "Mothering Sunday" to honour mothers was celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent. Earlier springtime celebrations were held in ancient Greece in honor of Rhea, mother of many of the Greek Gods.

Anna Jarvis

In 1908, Anna Jarvis of West Virginia lobbied to have a day on which to celebrate motherhood in the U.S..

With backing from a wealthy merchant from Philadelphia named John Wanamaker, her effort succeeded and. President Woodrow Wilson officially recognized Mother’s Day in 1914.

Jarvis later spoke out in opposition to the holiday she helped create, complaining about the commercialism.