The History of Thanksgiving in the United States

 

 

Thanksgiving, a cherished American holiday, is a time for families and friends to come together to express gratitude and share a bountiful feast. But do you know the historical roots of this holiday? Let's take a journey through time and explore the fascinating history of Thanksgiving in the United States.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 1: The Pilgrims' Journey

 

In the early 17th century, a group of English Separatists, known as the Pilgrims, sought religious freedom and a better life. In 1620, they set sail on the Mayflower, a historic voyage that lasted 66 days. The Pilgrims faced numerous challenges during their journey.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Learn more about the Pilgrims' journey

(https://www.history.com/topics/colonial-america/mayflower-compact)

 

Chapter 2: The First Thanksgiving

 

The Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, in what is now Massachusetts, in December 1620. They endured a harsh winter, but with the help of the local Wampanoag tribe, they learned to cultivate the land and sustain themselves. In the fall of 1621, the Pilgrims celebrated their first successful harvest with a three-day feast of Thanksgiving.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Learn more about the first Thanksgiving

https://www.plimoth.org/learn/just-kids/history/holidays/thanksgiving/history-thanksgiving

 

Chapter 3: Thanksgiving Becomes a Tradition

 

Thanksgiving did not become an official national holiday until the 19th century. Sarah Josepha Hale, the editor of Godey's Lady's Book, campaigned for the establishment of Thanksgiving as a national holiday for decades. Her efforts finally paid off when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Learn more about Sarah Josepha Hale 

https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/thanksgiving-history

 

Chapter 4: Modern-Day Thanksgiving

 

Thanksgiving has evolved over the years. Today, it's celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November and is a time for Americans to give thanks for their blessings. The traditional meal includes roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Parades, football games, and family gatherings have become common Thanksgiving traditions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Learn more about modern Thanksgiving

https://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving/thanksgiving-day

 

 

Thanksgiving is a holiday that reflects the spirit of gratitude, unity, and the American journey. Its roots date back to the early days of European settlers and Native American interactions, and it has since become an enduring tradition cherished by Americans across the nation.

 

As we gather with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving, let us remember the historical significance of this holiday and the values of thankfulness and togetherness it represents.

 

Learn more about the significance of Thanksgiving

https://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving/thanksgiving-day

 

Happy Thanksgiving!