Most of the time people forget that the Memorial Day is a national holiday initially established to pay homage to the nation's thousands of combat veterans and fallen soldiers. Nowadays, it seems Memorial Day is a three-day weekend that marks the beginning of summer. Nevertheless, the history of this American Holiday goes back to the Civil War and is an important reminder of those who died serving their country.

The history of Memorial Day begins in the summer of 1865, when a prominent local druggist, Henry C. Welles, mentioned to some of his friends that it would be great to remember the patriotic dead by placing flowers on their graves. Nonetheless, nothing happened until he advanced the idea again the following spring to General John B. Murray. Murray, a civil war hero, supported the idea enthusiastically and promoted veterans' support. Waterloo, NY held the first formal, village wide, annual observance of a day dedicated to honoring the war dead. Later, Waterloo, NY, was recognized as the birthplace of Memorial Day by the Congress of the United States. At the present time, this holiday is celebrated in the entire nation.

Memorial Day has also become a perfect opportunity for those looking to escape from work or daily routine. Many people in the U.S. travel on a three-day vacation during Memorial Day Weekend, and Miami Florida is a popular destination during this holiday. Check out our Miami Memorial Day Guide to find hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, and events.