Confederate Memorial Day is a holiday observed in some states in the southern United States to honor soldiers who served in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War (1861–1865). The day commemorates those who died fighting for the Confederacy.

Table of Contents

1. When is Confederate Memorial Day?
2. The History of Confederate Memorial Day?
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. The American Civil War (1861–1865)

When is Confederate Memorial Day?

The date of Confederate Memorial Day varies depending on the state observing it. In the state of South Carolina, it is observed on May 10th, marking the anniversary of Confederate General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson's death.

The following is the list of Confederate Memorial Day in South Carolina.

The History of Confederate Memorial Day?

The history of Confederate Memorial Day dates back to the aftermath of the American Civil War (1861–1865). The holiday emerged as part of broader efforts in the South to memorialize the war and preserve Confederate heritage.

The first Confederate Memorial Day observances were organized by women's groups across the South, and the earliest recorded observance was in Georgia on April 26, 1866, marking the anniversary of Confederate General Johnston's surrender in 1865.

The holiday became a means of mourning the South's defeat while fostering regional pride and identity. By the late 19th century, most Southern states had adopted Confederate Memorial Day as an official holiday, however, the dates varied by state, often tied to significant events in the Confederacy's history.

The holiday became less prominent over time as national observances like Memorial Day gained popularity. Some Southern states, such as Alabama, Mississippi, and South Carolina, still recognize the holiday, though public interest has declined.

What Do People Do on This Day?

The holiday is controversial due to its celebration of Confederate figures, who fought to preserve slavery and opposed the Union during the Civil War. The holiday participation in the holiday has declined over time and is now mostly limited to small groups or organizations that focus on preserving Confederate heritage.

People may visit Confederate cemeteries or monuments to lay wreaths and flowers on soldiers' graves.

Some communities host parades with period costumes, Confederate flags, and historical reenactments of battles or key events.

Museums and historical societies may organize lectures, exhibits, or discussions about the Civil War and the Confederacy. Tours of historic battlefields, cemeteries, and Confederate landmarks are sometimes offered.

In some areas, special church services are held to honor Confederate soldiers. These may include hymns, sermons, and prayers dedicated to their memory.

The American Civil War (1861–1865)

The American Civil War (1861–1865) was a pivotal conflict in U.S. history, fought between the Union (the Northern states) and the Confederacy (the Southern states). The war arose primarily over deep-seated divisions concerning slavery, states' rights, and political power.

The Southern economy depended heavily on slavery, while many in the North opposed its expansion into new territories and states. The election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860, who opposed the spread of slavery, intensified Southern fears of losing their way of life. Southern states argued for greater autonomy, particularly regarding their right to maintain slavery and reject federal interference.

Following Lincoln's election, 11 Southern states seceded from the Union to form the Confederate States of America, led by Jefferson Davis.

The war began on April 12, 1861, when Confederate forces attacked Fort Sumter in South Carolina. Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant on April 9, 1865, effectively ending the war. The Civil War was the deadliest conflict in U.S. history, with over 620,000 deaths and countless others wounded.