Thanksgiving Day: Meaning, History, and Facts
Thanksgiving Day is an annual national holiday in the United States and Canada that honors the harvest and various blessings of the past year. It originated from days of prayer and gratitude observed by early colonists in New England and Canada for safe journeys, military victories, or bountiful harvests.
Historical Origins
Americans generally trace their Thanksgiving tradition to a 1621 harvest feast shared between the Pilgrims, European colonists of Plymouth, and the Wampanoag people.
"Americans model their holiday on a 1621 harvest feast shared between the Wampanoag people and the English colonists known as Pilgrims."
In Canada, the earliest thanksgiving is linked to 1578, when explorer Martin Frobisher held a ceremony to give thanks for a safe voyage.
Modern Celebrations
In the United States, Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, following a 1941 joint resolution by Congress and a proclamation by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Since 1957, Canadians observe Thanksgiving on the second Monday in October.
Traditional Customs
In both countries, Thanksgiving involves gatherings of family and friends to share a meal.
- Typical American dishes include turkey, cranberries, and pumpkin pie.
"In both Canada and America, family and friends gather for a meal and other celebrations on Thanksgiving."
Author's summary: Thanksgiving Day commemorates historic harvest feasts and blessings, evolving into modern family celebrations rooted in early colonial and exploration traditions.