Why is Remembrance Day on November 11th?
The Origins of Remembrance Day and Armistice Day
Every year on 11 November, people across the UK and around the world pause to remember those who died in war. This day, known as Armistice Day, marks the anniversary of the armistice that brought the end of World War One. At the hour of the eleventh day, on the eleventh day of the eleventh month, the guns fell silent on the Western Front in 1918. That moment of peace, the eleventh day of the eleventh and the day of the eleventh month, became forever linked with remembrance and reflection.
The first Armistice Day was held on 11 November 1919, exactly one year after the 11 November 1918 armistice. It was King George V who declared that this day would be observed each year with two minutes of silence to commemorate all who had died in the war. Across the country, people stood still, shops closed, and bells rang to honour the fallen. This simple but powerful tradition became the foundation of Remembrance Day.
The First World War and the Reason We Commemorate
The First World War was one of the most devastating conflicts in history. Millions of soldiers and civilians died in the war, and entire nations were changed forever. When the fighting finally stopped on 11 November 1918, the world hoped never to see such destruction again.
To commemorate those who gave their lives, nations built war memorials and memorial gardens. In Britain, the Cenotaph in London became the focus of national mourning. Each year, people mark Remembrance Day there and at local memorial sites, showing gratitude to those who served in the armed forces during the world wars.
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission was created to care for the graves of the fallen, ensuring their memory lives on. These memorials serve as places for people to reflect, pay respects, and remember the true cost of freedom.
Remembrance Sunday and National Services of Commemoration
While Armistice Day continues to be honoured on 11 November, the main national ceremony in the UK is now held on Remembrance Sunday—the second Sunday of November, closest to the day of the eleventh month. The National Service of Remembrance takes place at the Cenotaph in London, where members of the Royal Family, the government, and the armed forces gather.
Silence is observed at 11am on the 11th day, and poppy wreaths are laid at memorials throughout the country. Remembrance Day ceremonies and day events are also held in towns and villages across the UK, as people continue to mark Remembrance Day in their own communities. This remembrance marked occasion reminds everyone of the unity, courage, and sacrifice shown by those who fought for peace.
The Poppy and Its Meaning on Remembrance Day
The poppy is the most recognisable symbol of remembrance. It first appeared after the First World War, when red poppies grew on the battlefields of the Western Front. The sight inspired the famous poem In Flanders Fields, and soon, the poppy became a symbol of hope and remembrance.
The Royal British Legion began selling paper poppies in 1921 to raise money for veterans and their families. Since then, the poppy is worn every year leading up to Remembrance Day and Remembrance Sunday. The bright red poppy represents both the blood shed in battle and the hope of peace for the future. Around 11 November, millions of people across the UK proudly wear their poppies to show gratitude and unity.
Remembrance Marked Across the Commonwealth and Beyond
Remembrance Day in the Commonwealth is observed in many nations, including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In Canada, the National War Memorial in Ottawa becomes the centre of national reflection, while ANZAC Day serves as a day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand. The United States observes Veterans Day on November 11, honouring all who served, and Memorial Day in May to remember those who died in war.
These day events show that remembrance is not only a British tradition but a global one. Wherever remembrance marked ceremonies take place, the message is the same—to commemorate those who gave everything for freedom.
Why We Still Mark Remembrance Day on 11 November
So, why is Remembrance Day held on 11 November? It’s because that was the eleventh day of the eleventh and the day of the eleventh month—the moment the First World War finally ended. The day and remembrance remind us of the price of peace and the value of unity.
Whether it’s Remembrance Sunday, Armistice Day, or quiet reflection at a memorial, people continue to mark Remembrance Day as a day of commemoration. From the first world war to today’s armed forces, it remains a time to honour the past, thank those who serve, and hope for a peaceful future.
The poppy, the silence, and the memorials all help us remember why Remembrance Day matters—and why 11 November, the day of the eleventh month, will always hold a special place in our hearts.
