The Evolution of Thanksgiving- How It Transformed into a National Holiday in the United States

How Thanksgiving Became a National Holiday

Thanksgiving, a holiday celebrated in the United States and Canada, has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. The question of how Thanksgiving became a national holiday is one that many people ponder. Through a combination of historical events, cultural influences, and political decisions, Thanksgiving has evolved into the beloved tradition it is today.

The origins of Thanksgiving can be traced back to the Pilgrims, who settled in what is now the United States in 1620. After a harsh first winter, the Pilgrims sought help from the local Native American tribe, the Wampanoag. In 1621, the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag held a three-day feast to celebrate the harvest and the successful planting of crops. This feast is often considered the first Thanksgiving.

However, it took several decades for Thanksgiving to become a national holiday. In 1777, the Continental Congress declared November 26, 1777, as a day of thanksgiving to celebrate the victory over the British in the Revolutionary War. This was the first time Thanksgiving was observed as a national holiday, but it was not a permanent tradition.

It wasn’t until 1863 that Thanksgiving was officially established as a national holiday by President Abraham Lincoln. On October 3, 1863, Lincoln issued a proclamation declaring the last Thursday in November as a day of Thanksgiving. This decision was made in the midst of the Civil War, as a way to bring the nation together and to give thanks for the blessings of the country.

Since then, Thanksgiving has been celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November each year. The tradition of gathering with family and friends to enjoy a feast of turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie has become a cherished part of American culture.

The journey of how Thanksgiving became a national holiday is a testament to the resilience and unity of the American people. From the humble beginnings of a feast between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag to the official declaration by President Lincoln, Thanksgiving has become a symbol of gratitude, community, and the enduring spirit of the nation.