When was Thanksgiving a holiday? This question may seem simple, but the history of Thanksgiving as a holiday is quite fascinating. Celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of November, Thanksgiving has its roots in the early 17th century when the Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a feast to give thanks for a successful harvest. Over the years, it has evolved into a time of family gatherings, feasting, and gratitude. Let’s delve into the history and significance of this beloved holiday.
The origins of Thanksgiving can be traced back to the harvest festivals held by various cultures throughout history. However, the American Thanksgiving holiday has its roots in the 1621 feast between the Pilgrims of the Plymouth Colony and the Wampanoag Native Americans. This event was a celebration of the bountiful harvest and the survival of the Pilgrims during their first year in the New World.
The first Thanksgiving was not an annual event. It was a one-time gathering that took place in the autumn of 1621. However, the tradition of giving thanks for a bountiful harvest continued, and in 1637, the Massachusetts Bay Colony held its first official Thanksgiving. The celebration was held on the third Monday in September, and it became a yearly event.
In 1777, during the American Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress declared a national day of Thanksgiving. This declaration was a way to express gratitude for the victory at Saratoga and to encourage the nation to come together during a time of crisis.
The tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday in November was established by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. During the Civil War, Lincoln issued a proclamation that declared Thanksgiving a national holiday to be celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. This date was chosen to ensure that the holiday would be observed at the same time by all states.
Since then, Thanksgiving has remained a cherished holiday in the United States. It is a time for families to come together, share a feast, and express gratitude for the blessings in their lives. The traditional Thanksgiving meal typically includes a turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.
In conclusion, Thanksgiving has been a holiday in the United States since the early 17th century. It has evolved from a one-time gathering of the Pilgrims and Native Americans to a national holiday celebrated by millions of people each year. The significance of Thanksgiving lies in its ability to bring families together and encourage a spirit of gratitude and unity. When was Thanksgiving a holiday? The answer is simple: it has been a holiday for over 400 years, and it continues to be a cherished tradition in the United States.
