A Brief History of Thanksgiving 

By: Vivian O

Every November, we slip into the same routine: decorating for the rally, talk about Thanksgiving break, and hoping the day ends just a bit faster. But behind all the traditions and cozy vibes of Thanksgiving is a complicated history that is honestly more interesting than what we learn about in school (if we learn about it at all). 

Before the Pilgrims: Indigenous Traditions

Long before Europeans settlers arrived, many indigenous nations had their own ceremonies centered around gratitude. These gatherings were often connected to: 

- successful harvests

- changes in the seasons 

- honoring the land and water 

- celebrating the community and survival 

These were not small events—with some lasting for days and involving various activities like dancing, storytelling, and shared meals. So, the idea of “giving thanks” has deep indigenous roots that go far beyond what many Americans recognize today.

The 1621 Harvest Gathering 

Many people commonly connect Thanksgiving with the event that happened in 1621 in Plymouth, but it looked nothing like the holiday we are used to now (it was also not called Thanksgiving back then). 

That year, the Pilgrims had barely survived their first winter. Nearly half their group had died. Their survival was possible in part because of the Wampanoag people, who had lived in the region for thousands of years; they taught them how to grow crops like corn and how to use the land effectively.

In the fall, the Pilgrims held a three-day harvest gathering. 

Around 90 Wampanoag men, led by Ousamequin (Massasoit), came as part of a political alliance. 

The food likely included:

- venison (brought by the Wampanoag) 

- seafood (fish and shellfish)

- corn, beans, and squash

- wild birds (turkey not included!)

This is often remembered as the “First Thanksgiving,” even though it was not yet a national holiday. 

How Thanksgiving Became a National Holiday 

For the next two centuries, different communities held their own thanksgiving days, but they all happened at different times. There was no national standard and no connection to the 1621 gathering… until—Sarah Josepha Hale’s Campaign.

In the mid-1800s, writer and editor Sarah Josepha Hale believed the U.S. needed a unifying holiday; she spent nearly 20 years writing letters, articles, and petitions asking presidents and politicians to make Thanksgiving a national celebration (that’s some serious dedication). 

This came to an end when, during the Civil War–one of the most divided moments in American history–President Abraham Lincoln agreed. 

In 1863, he declared Thanksgiving a national holiday, hoping it would help Americans feel more connected.

This decision is the true origin of the modern Thanksgiving holiday, not the 1621 feast. 

The Holiday Evolves

Over the years, Thanksgiving slowly transformed into the holiday we recognized today. 

By the early 20th century, Thanksgiving became associated with:

- big family meals

- football games

- traveling to visit relatives 

It became more cultural than religious. 

A Holiday With Many Meanings

Today, Thanksgiving is a mix of different traditions and perspectives.

For many families, it’s mainly about: 

- being together

- reflecting on what they are grateful for

- enjoying food and time off (my personal favorite) 

At the same time, many Native communities observe the day as a National Day of Mourning. 

This day recognizes the painful history that followed European colonization–including the loss of land, culture, and lives. Understanding both sides helps us recognize the holiday’s complexity. Thanksgiving can still be a time of gratitude, but it’s also a chance to learn, reflect, and acknowledge the full history behind it. 

Fun Fact: 

In 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved the holiday earlier to help stores extend the holiday shopping season during the Great Depression. The official date became the fourth Thursday of November (after some debate), and we still follow it today!

Two Recipes For Your Thanksgiving Dinner!

Collected By: Jennifer Y

Thanksgiving is coming up, and many people make food to celebrate and eat with their families. There are classics like mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, stuffing, and turkey. Here are 2 recipes you can try and make for your family!

Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes 

by: Johanna C

Hello Raiders!

Thanksgiving is coming up, and you know what that means – family, friends, football, and the most important part: food. Let’s be honest though… the turkey may get all the hype, but it’s really the sides that make the Thanksgiving meal unforgettable. From mashed potatoes to mac and cheese, the perfect spread of side dishes is all about variety and flavor. Whether you enjoy classic comfort foods or love anything delicious, there is something on the table for everyone.

Of course Thanksgiving is also about sharing and celebrating, meaning there is always room for a little creativity. Whether you stick to basic dishes or add a twist, side dishes are the heart of the feast and what everyone looks forward to the most.

So grab your plates and forks Raiders! Here’s the ultimate lineup of Thanksgiving sides you won’t want to miss.

No matter what ends up on your plate this Thanksgiving, these sides will for sure make the meal feel complete. From classics like mashed potatoes to crowd pleasers like mac and cheese, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy. While this list is pretty basic, it has all the essentials for Thanksgiving. Do not be afraid to experiment though, Thanksgiving is all about creativity. So load up your plates and make this Thanksgiving one to remember!

Best desserts to make this Thanksgiving.

By Matthew A