Thanksgiving Day Meaning History And Facts

[Bryan]

Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday in the United States (and observed in Canada, though on a different date) dedicated to expressing gratitude for the blessings of the past year. It is marked by feasts, family gatherings, and reflection.

History

• Origins: The holiday traces back to the 1621 harvest celebration shared by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native Americans in Plymouth, Massachusetts. This event symbolized cooperation and gratitude.
• Proclamation: In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday, to be celebrated annually on the last Thursday of November, during the Civil War, emphasizing unity and gratitude.
• Modern Date: In 1941, the U.S. Congress officially fixed Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November.

Facts

1. Canada's Thanksgiving: Celebrated on the second Monday of October, it predates the U.S. holiday, with origins linked to explorer Martin Frobisher in 1578.
2. Turkey Tradition: Turkeys became central to Thanksgiving meals in the 19th century, popularized by Sarah Josepha Hale, an influential advocate for the holiday.
3. Macy's Parade: The iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City began in 1924 and attracts millions of viewers.
4. Football: Thanksgiving football games date back to the late 19th century and remain a major tradition.
5. Black Friday Link: The day after Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday shopping season, known as Black Friday.

Fun Fact: Each year, the U.S. President pardons a turkey, sparing it from being eaten, in a tradition that began with President John F. Kennedy and became formalized during George H.W. Bush's presidency.

Thanksgiving is more than a feast—it's a time to reflect on gratitude, unity, and shared history.