Thanksgiving: Celebrating Gratitude and Togetherness (Eng)

Thanksgiving is one of the most cherished holidays in the United States, celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of November. Rooted in historical tradition and cultural significance, this holiday serves as a time for families and friends to come together, express gratitude, and enjoy a feast that reflects the essence of community and abundance.

The History of Thanksgiving in the United States

Thanksgiving's origins trace back to 1621, when English Pilgrims, who had settled in Plymouth, Massachusetts, shared a harvest feast with the Wampanoag Native Americans. This gathering came after a harsh winter in which many Pilgrims perished. The Wampanoag had played a crucial role in helping the Pilgrims adapt to their new environment by teaching them agricultural techniques and sharing local resources. The feast celebrated the Pilgrims' first successful harvest and symbolized a moment of cooperation and gratitude between the two groups.

Although this event is often referred to as the "First Thanksgiving," it wasn’t immediately established as an annual holiday. It wasn't until 1863, during the height of the Civil War, that Thanksgiving became a national tradition. President Abraham Lincoln, seeking to foster unity and hope during a time of deep division, proclaimed a national day of "Thanksgiving and Praise." He chose the last Thursday of November as a day for Americans to give thanks for their blessings.

Later, in 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt officially designated the fourth Thursday of November as the permanent date for Thanksgiving. This change aimed to extend the holiday shopping season and boost the economy during the Great Depression.

Modern Traditions

Thanksgiving is marked by various traditions that bring families and communities together.

1. The Feast: Central to Thanksgiving is the meal, often featuring roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. These dishes are deeply rooted in the holiday's history, inspired by the ingredients likely available during the first Thanksgiving.

   
   

2. Parades: The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, held annually in New York City, is a highlight of the holiday. Featuring giant balloons, floats, performances, and marching bands, it attracts millions of viewers across the nation.

   
   

3. Football: Watching football is a Thanksgiving staple, with NFL games traditionally held on the holiday. The tradition dates back to the early 20th century and is a favorite pastime for sports enthusiasts.

   
   

4. Gratitude and Giving Back: Many families share what they are thankful for before the meal, fostering a sense of appreciation. Additionally, acts of charity, such as volunteering at soup kitchens or donating to food drives, are common ways people give back to their communities.

The Day After Thanksgiving: Black Friday

The day after Thanksgiving, known as Black Friday, marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season in the United States. It is renowned for massive sales, extended store hours, and significant discounts offered by retailers across the country. The term "Black Friday" originated in the 1960s, referring to the moment when stores went from operating "in the red" (losing money) to "in the black" (turning a profit), thanks to the surge in consumer spending.

For many, Black Friday has become a tradition of its own, with shoppers lining up early in the morning—or even the night before—to grab deals on everything from electronics to clothing. Over time, this event has grown into a global phenomenon, with retailers in other countries adopting similar sales events.

While the day is known for its commercial frenzy, it also symbolizes the transition from Thanksgiving to the festive holiday season, blending the spirit of gratitude with the excitement of gift-giving. With the rise of online shopping, Cyber Monday, the Monday following Thanksgiving, has become an extension of Black Friday, offering even more discounts, especially in e-commerce.

Despite its commercial nature, Black Friday continues to be a highly anticipated event, drawing millions of shoppers and setting the tone for the rest of the holiday season.

Thanksgiving Beyond the US

While Thanksgiving is most closely associated with the United States, similar celebrations occur in other countries, such as Canada (celebrated on the second Monday in October). Each culture adapts the holiday to its unique history and traditions.