History of Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Timeline
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.
