From ancient goddesses to modern peace activists − Mother’s Day celebrates women’s political power

Anna Jarvis founded Mother’s Day in 1908 to honor women’s collective work for peace. Today, the celebration is largely detached from its political origins.

By: Marie-Claire Beaulieu, Tufts University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: May 5, 2026

Words: 1,065

Last Updated: 2 months, 3 weeks ago

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By Marie-Claire Beaulieu, Tufts University

On Mother’s Day, Americans go all out with gift-buying and dining out to honor the women in their lives. In fact, according to some estimates, consumer spending in the United States on this day is around US$34 billion.

This consumerist emphasis has long been criticized – including by the holiday’s founder, Anna Jarvis. She started the celebration in 1908 to honor her own mother, Civil War-era activist Ann Jarvis, …

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