Thanksgiving intricately weaves history, myth, and tradition. Although details of the “First Thanksgiving” remain contested, the overarching sentiments of gratitude, unity, and introspection are enduring and universally impactful. Thanksgiving, one of the most celebrated holidays in the United States, is deeply rooted in the history of early settlers and indigenous people. Over the years, the significance of the holiday has evolved, and various traditions have taken shape. Here, we’ll delve into the rich tapestry of Thanksgiving’s history and the traditions that have become synonymous with the day.

The First Thanksgiving: 1621

The Beginning: The narrative of the “First Thanksgiving” involves the English Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe in 1621. After the Pilgrims arrived on the Mayflower and faced a devastating winter, the Wampanoag people taught them vital survival skills, such as crop cultivation. In gratitude and celebration of their first successful harvest, a three-day feast was held, which is popularly regarded as the first Thanksgiving¹.

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Proclamations and Nationalization

Presidential Proclamations: While days of thanks were sporadically observed following the 1621 celebration, it was during the American Revolution that the Continental Congress designated days of thanksgiving annually. However, the national day we recognize now was solidified by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, who proclaimed the last Thursday of November as a national day of Thanksgiving².

Iconic Foods

Turkey: The centerpiece of most Thanksgiving meals, turkey’s association with the holiday may not date back to the first feast. Nonetheless, by the 19th century, this large bird had become the symbol of the Thanksgiving meal³.

Pumpkin Pie: Pumpkin was available during the first feast, but not in pie form. The idea of pumpkin pies became more popular in the 18th and 19th centuries⁴.

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Cranberries: Native to North America, cranberries likely made an appearance in the early feasts. Over time, cranberry sauce became a Thanksgiving staple⁵.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Beginning in 1924, this parade has become synonymous with Thanksgiving, with its floats, marching bands, and giant balloons. Initially called the “Macy’s Christmas Parade,” it marked the start of the holiday shopping season⁶.

Football and Thanksgiving

Football on Thanksgiving dates back to the late 1800s, with club, school, and college matches. The tradition of the NFL games on Thanksgiving started in 1934 with the Detroit Lions and has since become a key element of the holiday⁷.

Giving Thanks and Modern Traditions

Beyond feasting and entertainment, Thanksgiving remains a day to express gratitude. Many families have their traditions, from saying grace to volunteering at shelters, reflecting the holiday’s foundational spirit.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is a complex blend of history, myth, and tradition. While the specifics of the “First Thanksgiving” are debated, the broader themes of gratitude, unity, and reflection are timeless and universally resonant.

Sources

1. History.com – “History of Thanksgiving.”
2. Archives.gov – “Continental Congress and Thanksgiving.”
3. Bradford, William. “Of Plymouth Plantation.”
4. Smithsonian Magazine – “The Evolution of Pumpkin Pie.”
5. Cranberry Institute – “History of Cranberries.”
6. Macy’s – “History of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.”
7. NFL.com – “History of NFL on Thanksgiving.”