The Emotional Origin of Father's Day
Father's Day has a touching history dating back to the early 20th century in the United States. It all started in 1909, when Sonora Smart Dodd, a Washington woman, decided that fathers also deserved a special day to be honored, inspired by Mother's Day.
The Story of Sonora Smart and her Father
Sonora Smart Dodd was the daughter of Henry Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran who became a single father after the death of his wife. Henry raised his six children alone, an act of sacrifice and love that Sonora wanted to recognize. His idea of dedicating a day to honor fathers began in Washington on June 19, 1909.
Official Recognition of Father's Day
The Sonora idea had a significant impact, and its proposal spread. In 1966, United States President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaimed the third Sunday in June as Father's Day nationwide, establishing a tradition that endures to this day.
Father's Day in Other Parts of the World
In other countries, Father's Day is celebrated on different dates. In Spain and Italy, for example, it is commemorated on March 19, coinciding with the day of Saint Joseph, father of Jesus, which highlights the father figure from a religious perspective.
