Thanksgiving History
The Beginning: Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday celebrated in the United States, Canada, some Caribbean islands, and Liberia. The holiday amidst the COVID-19 pandemic is observed on the fourth Thursday of November in the U.S and on the second Monday of October in Canada. Thanksgiving is a day of expressing gratitude for the harvest and the blessings of the year. The origin of the festival dates back to the 16th century when Europeans embarked on expeditions to America, and hence began the colonization of the country.
The Tradition: The Native Americans had been living in America for centuries before the Europeans came along. The first Thanksgiving was a feast shared by the Native Americans and the English pilgrims who landed in America on the Mayflower. The feast was hosted by the Wampanoag Indians who were skilled at farming and fishing. The Pilgrims learned how to cultivate crops from the Native Americans and were taught how to hunt and fish which led to the formation of a friendship. A feast was held to celebrate their newfound friendship and to give thanks to nature for the harvest. This was the beginning of Thanksgiving.
Modern Day Celebration: Thanksgiving traditions have evolved since then. It now involves feasting on turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, roasted vegetables, and pies. Families come together during this time to enjoy each other's company and to show gratitude for their blessings. Parades are held, and football games are played. The president of the U.S also takes part in the ceremony of pardoning a turkey. This tradition began during the presidency of George H.W Bush.
The Thanksgiving holiday is a time to reflect on the many things we have to be thankful for. It is a reminder to be grateful for our family, friends, and loved ones, and to appreciate the simple things in life. Let us all take a moment to pause and give thanks for the blessings we have received this year. Happy Thanksgiving!
