The Year of the First Thanksgiving Celebration
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, celebrated on Thursday, November 28, 2024, and this cherished holiday is steeped in rich U.S. history. While many people envision a day filled with family gatherings, sumptuous feasts, and expressions of gratitude, the story behind Thanksgiving is far more intricate. As President Joe Biden articulated in a proclamation on The White House website, “Throughout our nation’s history, this season of reflection and gratitude arrives during both prosperous and challenging times. Before the establishment of the United States, the Pilgrims celebrated Thanksgiving to honor their first successful harvest, acknowledging the invaluable support and generosity of the Wampanoag people who made it possible. Furthermore, amidst the struggles for independence, General George Washington and his troops observed Thanksgiving during their march to Valley Forge. Even during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday to recognize the blessings of our nation, despite the ongoing strife to preserve the Union.”
To dive deeper into the significance of Thanksgiving, explore why it is celebrated, and discover its historical roots, continue reading below.
Understanding the Celebration of Thanksgiving in America
As noted by Britannica, Thanksgiving Day is an annual national holiday in both the United States and Canada, dedicated to celebrating the harvest and other blessings that the past year has brought. Americans traditionally believe that their Thanksgiving festivities are modeled after a harvest feast shared in 1621 by the English colonists, known as the Pilgrims, alongside the Wampanoag tribe. This day has evolved into a time for families to come together and express their heartfelt gratitude for the abundance in their lives, including loving relationships, good health, and personal achievements.
Tracing the Roots of the First Thanksgiving Celebration
While the initial harvest took place in 1621, and moments of gratitude were undoubtedly expressed, the first officially recorded Thanksgiving is believed to have occurred in 1623 in Plymouth, Massachusetts, as per information from National Geographic Kids. This early observance laid the groundwork for the Thanksgiving traditions that continue to resonate throughout American culture today.
Exploring Turkey Consumption on Thanksgiving Day
The United States Department of Agriculture estimated that more than 46 million turkeys are consumed during Thanksgiving celebrations each year, according to a report from 2017. This staggering number reflects the deep-rooted tradition of serving turkey as the centerpiece of Thanksgiving dinners across the country, symbolizing not only a feast of abundance but also the spirit of sharing and togetherness that defines this beloved holiday.
