 In 1920, the National American Legion adopted it as their official symbol of remembrance.Decoration Days in Southern Appalachia and Liberia are an unbroken tradition which arose by the 19th century.Decoration practices are localized and unique to individual families, cemeteries, and communities, but common elements that unify the various Decoration Day practices are thought to represent syncretism of predominantly Christian cultures in 19th century Southern Appalachia with pre-Christian influences from Scotland, Ireland, and African cultures.