King George V of the United Kingdom proclaimed Armistice Day

On November 17, 1919, a profoundly significant event took place that would forever shape the narrative of global history. King George V of the United Kingdom issued a proclamation that established Armistice Day. Later, this historic commemoration evolved into the globally recognized Remembrance Day. The main instigator of this impactful decision was none other than Edward George Honey, whose idea ultimately changed the way we commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers.

Armistice Day initially marked the anniversary of the end of the First World War in 1918. Its conception was largely influenced by the public’s overwhelming need to honor the brave souls lost and the immense sacrifice made during this devastating period of human history. The day was intended to observe peace and to cease hostility, reflecting the literal meaning of the term “armistice”. King George V, the then reigning monarch, saw this declared day of reflection and respect as a fitting tribute to those who had given their lives during the Great War.

Edward George Honey, a London-based Australian journalist, was the first to suggest such a day of solemn remembrance. His letter to the London Evening News in May 1919 highlighted the need for a respectful period of silence on the anniversary of the Armistice. Honey believed that amid the joyous celebrations marking the end of the war, the solemn and heartbreaking losses shouldn’t be overlooked. He proposed a silence of five minutes to remember those who had made the ultimate sacrifice.

Recognizing this poignant suggestion, King George V took the steps to implement it on a national scale. His 1919 Royal Proclamation was an appeal to the nation to cease all activity for two minutes at 11 am on November 11. Ever since, this moment of silence and tribute has been observed globally as a potent symbol of respect, at the exact hour when the guns of the Western Front fell silent on this day in 1918.

King George V’s Armistice Day proclamation and its subsequent evolution into Remembrance Day is a testament to the impact, influence, and significance of Edward George Honey’s initial suggestion. His idea, articulated through a heartfelt letter, turned into an enduring tradition that honors millions of brave souls even decades later- a tradition where a global community pauses together, in silence, in remembrance.

This notable event’s significance extends well beyond a single decision made by a monarch and a journalist’s suggestion. The outcome symbolizes the universal human sentiment of paying homage and expressing gratitude to our fellow human beings’ courage and sacrifice.

As the years passed, this Day came to be known as Remembrance Day, expanding to honor not just the fallen of the First World War but victims of subsequent wars and conflicts as well. Each year on November 11, people around the globe observe a two-minute silence at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.

Edward George Honey’s notion, brought to reality by King George V’s proclamation, has now become a unifying day of remembrance. Today, it’s not only commemorated in the United Kingdom but across many nations, bridging geographical and cultural divides. We remember together, regardless of nationality, age, or creed, those brave individuals who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.