History of Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Timeline

Share: FB Share X Share Reddit Share Reddit Share
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Tombs of the Unknown Soldier or Warrior are monuments dedicated to unidentified soldiers killed in war, serving as a tribute to all fallen soldiers. These high-profile national monuments are found in many countries. The concept emerged after World War I as a way to honor the numerous soldiers who died without their remains being identified. These tombs typically contain the body of one such unidentified soldier, symbolizing the sacrifice of all unknown soldiers.

1908: End of State Sacrifices

In 1908, the practice of offering state sacrifices twice a year at the shrine in Jinju, Korea, was ended by royal edict.

November 1916: Proposal for a French Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

In November 1916, a local officer in France suggested burying "an unknown soldier" in the Panthéon.

November 1918: Formal Bill Presented to French Parliament

A formal bill for the creation of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was presented in the French Parliament in November 1918.

September 1919: French Law Passed

In September 1919, the decision to create the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in France was voted into law.

1920: UK and France Hold Services

Both the UK and France held services at their newly designated tombs on Armistice Day 1920.

1921: More Unknown Soldier Tombs Unveiled

In 1921, the United States, Portugal, and Italy unveiled their own Tombs of the Unknown Soldier, following the example of the UK and France.