answersLogoWhite

0

The symbol is based on the poppies that grew in the Flanders region of France, an area of particularly brutal battle in World War 1, and subsequently the site of a famous military cemetery; it was adopted by the British and Canadian Legions, as a memorial symbol of the veterans of World War 1.

In the US., with the advocacy of Moina Michael, the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars adopted the symbol and expanded the use of it, to include fund raising efforts for disabled veterans. Under this program, a small, red paper poppy, to be displayed on shirt or blouse, was given in thanks, to each contributor. The symbolic red poppy also has a similar history in Australia, New Zealand, and France.

User Avatar

Wiki User

13y ago

What else can I help you with?