The History and Tradition of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday celebrated by millions around the world. It is a day for giving thanks, enjoying delicious food, and spending quality time with loved ones. What is the history behind this festive occasion? Let's explore the origins and traditions of Thanksgiving.

The Origins of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving dates back to the 17th century, when a group of English Pilgrims known as the Mayflower Pilgrims arrived in North America. They reached Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1620. After a challenging winter and limited resources, the Pilgrims struggled to survive in their new surroundings.

The Pilgrims received guidance from the Wampanoag Native Americans, who taught them essential survival skills such as farming, hunting, and fishing. The successful harvest of 1621 marked the start of a friendship between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag, leading to a celebration of their bountiful crops.

The First Thanksgiving Feast

In the autumn of 1621, the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag held a feast to commemorate their successful harvest. This event is often regarded as the first Thanksgiving in American history. It lasted three days and was filled with gratitude and unity.

The menu included a variety of dishes. The Pilgrims contributed venison, wild turkeys, fish, and vegetables. The Wampanoag brought an assortment of seafood, including clams and lobster, along with fruits and nuts. Together, they created a feast symbolic of cooperation and thankfulness.

Thanksgiving Becomes a National Holiday

Although the first Thanksgiving was significant, it did not become an annual tradition right away. It took many years and the efforts of various individuals for Thanksgiving to become an official holiday.

In 1789, President George Washington declared November 26th as a day of national thanksgiving. It was President Abraham Lincoln who established Thanksgiving as a national holiday in 1863, proclaiming the last Thursday of November as a day of "Thanksgiving and Praise."

Traditional Thanksgiving Customs

Thanksgiving has evolved into a holiday with various customs and traditions. Some customs are deeply rooted in history, while others have developed over time.

One popular tradition is the pardoning of a turkey by the President of the United States, which began in 1947 when President Harry Truman received a live turkey as a gift. Truman decided to spare its life, initiating the presidential turkey pardon tradition.

Another well-known tradition is the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, held annually in New York City since 1924. This iconic parade features giant helium balloons, marching bands, celebrity performances, and floats, attracting millions of spectators.

Modern-Day Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is celebrated in different ways across various cultures and countries. While the traditional feast remains central, many families also engage in volunteer work and charity activities.

There has been a shift towards more sustainable and plant-based Thanksgiving meals, highlighting a growing awareness of environmental concerns. Many now include vegetarian or vegan options alongside the traditional turkey, promoting diversity in their celebrations.

Thanksgiving is a holiday rich in history and gratitude. It began with the collaboration between English Pilgrims and Wampanoag Native Americans, evolving into a national holiday dedicated to giving thanks. As you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, reflect on the traditions that make this holiday special.