Father's Day
History
A women by the name of Sonora Dodd, of Washington, first had the idea of a "father's day." She thought of the idea for Father's Day while listening to a Mother's Day sermon in 1909.
Sonora's dream was to create a special day to honor her father, William Smart. William Smart was a Civil War veteran. His wife died while giving birth to their sixth child. Mr Smart was left to raise all his children by himself on a rural farm in eastern Washington state.
Sonora realized the selflessness her father had shown in raising his children as a single parent. It was her father that made all the parental sacrifices and was, in the eyes of his daughter, a courageous, selfless, and loving man. Sonora's father's birthday was in June, so she chose to celebrate the first Father's Day in Spokane, Washington on the 19th of June, 1910.
In America, President Calvin Coolidge, in 1924, supported the idea of a national Father's Day. Then in 1966 President Lyndon Johnson signed a presidential proclamation declaring the 3rd Sunday of June as Father's Day. President Richard Nixon signed the law which finally made it permanent in 1972.
Most countries follow the United States tradition and celebrate Father's Day on the 3rd Sunday in June, however New Zealand and Australia celebrate on the 1st Sunday in September. There is no clear data as to why we celebrate on this date.
Traditions
Father's Day around the world is an opportunity children of all ages to pay tribute to their dads. While for most countries there are no set traditions, it often involves a breakfast in bed, presents, and a chance for dads to put their feet up.
One unusual tradition is what Germany does on Father's Day. Fathers of all ages take part in a Father's Day hike. Groups of men hike into the forest dragging a wagon full of wine or beer, and local foods. On reaching their destination they have a huge feast.
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