The History of Thanksgiving: Myths and Facts
Thanksgiving is a beloved holiday in the United States, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. It is a time for families and friends to gather, express gratitude, and enjoy a festive meal together. The history of Thanksgiving is often traced back to the early 17th century, but like many historical events, it has its share of myths and facts that have evolved over time.
The Pilgrims and the First Thanksgiving
Myth: The Pilgrims and Native Americans Celebrated Thanksgiving Every Year
One common misconception is that the Pilgrims and Native Americans gathered annually to celebrate Thanksgiving. In reality, the first Thanksgiving was a one-time event.
The story begins in 1620 when the Pilgrims, a group of English Separatists seeking religious freedom, arrived in Plymouth, Massachusetts, aboard the Mayflower. They faced a harsh winter, and many of them perished due to exposure and lack of food. In the spring of 1621, the Wampanoag people, led by Chief Massasoit, came to the aid of the struggling Pilgrims. The Native Americans taught the Pilgrims essential survival skills, such as planting crops and fishing.
Fact: The First Thanksgiving Was a Harvest Celebration
The first Thanksgiving took place in the fall of 1621 when the Pilgrims successfully harvested their crops. The celebration lasted for three days and included both Pilgrims and Wampanoag people. It was more of a harvest festival than a formal Thanksgiving as we know it today.
The menu likely included deer, fowl, seafood, corn, beans, squash, and other locally available foods. The event was a time of feasting and gratitude for the successful harvest and the assistance provided by the Native Americans.
Thanksgiving Becomes an Annual Tradition
Myth: Thanksgiving Was Celebrated Every Year Since 1621
After the initial Thanksgiving celebration, it took several years for the idea of a regular annual Thanksgiving to gain traction. While occasional days of thanksgiving were declared by individual colonies, there was no consistent nationwide observance.
Fact: Thanksgiving Was Not Regularly Celebrated Until the 19th Century
Thanksgiving was not celebrated as a national holiday until the 19th century. Sarah Josepha Hale, a prominent magazine editor and author, played a significant role in advocating for a national Thanksgiving Day. She wrote letters to political leaders, including President Abraham Lincoln, urging them to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday.
In 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, President Lincoln heeded Hale's call and proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday. He declared that the last Thursday in November would be a day of "thanksgiving and praise" for the entire nation. This tradition continued until 1939 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved Thanksgiving to the second-to-last Thursday in November to extend the holiday shopping season during the Great Depression.
Myth: Turkey Was Present at the First Thanksgiving
It is often said that turkey was a central dish at the first Thanksgiving. While it is likely that wild turkey was present in the Plymouth area, historical accounts do not specifically mention turkey as part of the menu.
Fact: Turkey Became a Symbolic Thanksgiving Dish Over Time
Although turkey may not have been a star at the first Thanksgiving, it gradually became associated with the holiday. By the 19th century, roast turkey had become a popular choice for Thanksgiving meals. Today, the Thanksgiving turkey is a symbol of abundance and a focal point of many Thanksgiving feasts.
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Myth: The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Began in the 1920s
The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a beloved tradition featuring giant balloons, floats, and marching bands. Contrary to popular belief, the parade did not originate in the 1920s.
Fact: The Parade Began in the 1920s but Was Initially a Christmas Parade
The first Macy's parade took place in 1924 but was not specifically a Thanksgiving event. It was a Christmas parade, known as the "Macy's Christmas Parade," featuring festive displays and Santa Claus. The parade was a way for Macy's to celebrate the holiday season and attract shoppers to their store.
Thanksgiving Becomes a National Holiday
Myth: Thanksgiving Has Always Been a Fixed Holiday
Some might assume that Thanksgiving has always been celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.
Fact: Thanksgiving Was Initially Set on the Last Thursday of November
When President Lincoln established Thanksgiving as a national holiday in 1863, he designated the last Thursday in November for the celebration. However, in 1939, President Roosevelt moved Thanksgiving to the second-to-last Thursday, causing confusion and disagreement.
After public outcry and opposition from some states, Congress passed a law in 1941 officially establishing Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday in November. This change aimed to provide a longer holiday shopping season and prevent the confusion caused by a variable Thanksgiving date.
Modern Thanksgiving Traditions
Myth: Thanksgiving Has Always Been About Food and Family
While food and family have always been central to Thanksgiving, the way people celebrate has evolved over time.
Fact: Thanksgiving Traditions Have Evolved
The modern Thanksgiving celebration typically involves a bountiful feast, with turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Families gather to share a meal and express gratitude. However, the specific traditions and foods associated with Thanksgiving have evolved and adapted over the years.
Celebrate Thanksgiving with Varnz
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